Job 10:12Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

The essence from which the creature emerges is referred to as milk that is drawn out, and just as milk can transform into cheese, so too the essence that is poured out and solidified becomes natural (φυσις); this represents the initial stage of the embryo. The seed, once it has been nurtured in the womb and has thickened like cheese, develops into a natural form; it then takes shape, or as Scripture articulates, ‘represented’ (εξεικονιζεται) (Ex. 21:22-23), and takes on a semblance; the fluid essence solidifies and is differentiated within the womb into skin, flesh, bones, and sinews. Each of these distinct components, once a soul animates them, possess life; however, once the soul departs, they remain inert.

In this passage, Job metaphorically refers to the Word of God assuming human form. These phrases seem directed toward the Father, as though they were articulated on behalf of the Son.

Moses teaches that a child is primarily shaped in the womb before it receives a soul (Exodus 21:23). This process does not involve the soul being introduced from outside or generated from the seed; instead, it aligns with the divine order that God has established within human essence from the very beginning. Job, the courageous servant of God, echoes this truth before his Creator when he states, "Remember that thou didst create me, and bring me back to the earth again. Or didst thou not churn me up like milk, and put me to death like raw milk? And with skin and flesh hast thou clothed me, and with bones and veins hast thou sewn me together. Thou hast laid up for me life and favour: but hast Thy visitation kept my spirit?" (Job 10:9-12).

The essence from which a living being is formed is likened to milk that has been drawn. Just as curdled milk transforms into cheese, the seed that has undergone a change becomes part of nature. This represents a state before the germination process. The seed that bursts forth within the woman’s womb, curdling similarly to cheese, transitions into nature. Subsequently, it is shaped or, as Scripture states, it is formed (See Exodus 21:22-23 LXX.), acquiring distinctive characteristics. When the limbs begin to separate and each functions independently, similar to the hand or foot of a living being, the embryo is delivered, emerging as a living creature.

Job expresses his astonishment that the Lord, who is all-powerful and all-knowing, the Creator of humanity who meticulously nurtures life and safeguards moral conduct, would inflict such harsh suffering on His creation for minor transgressions, causing immense anguish (Job 10: 1-12). In his turmoil regarding the reasons behind his unjust suffering and his inability to vindicate himself before God, Job again finds himself longing for death over life, seeking solace in the remaining days of his painful existence (13-22).