Job 18:18Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Verse 18. They shall cast him out of the light into darkness (Job 18:18). He finds himself 'cast out of the light into darkness' when, for the sake of the fleeting glory of this life, he is destined for everlasting torment. Therefore, it is further clarified that they shall expel him from the world. He is 'cast out of the world' when the Supreme Judge manifests Himself because he is removed from this earthly realm, where he has arrogantly reveled; and as the end of time approaches, he and all his followers will face condemnation, aptly connecting these two truths.

Job chastises his friends for their irrational words, vehemently expressing his frustration. This provokes Baldad, who responds to Job with harshness, interpreting Job's own acknowledgment of impending death as undeniable evidence of his wrongdoing. The very framework of creation suggests that the unrighteous, when faced with adversity, cannot escape its repercussions and ultimately concludes their trials with death.