Job 18:7Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Verse 7. The vigor of his strength shall be diminished (Job 18:7). For now, his 'steps of strength' indicate that he repeatedly engages in violent actions against others, showcasing his dominance. However, ‘the vigor of his power shall be diminished,’ as his iniquity, which he presently indulges, will soon be confined by retribution. The text continues: ‘And his own design shall cast him down’ (Job 18:7). Each wicked individual currently fixes his sights on temporal affairs, neglecting eternal matters and engaging in ungodly behavior while scornfully ridiculing the righteous.

Wildad illustrated his point by comparing the plight of birds and animals ensnared in a hunt. He stated that just as these creatures cannot escape their traps and nets, misfortune consistently overtakes the ungodly. Furthermore, in a troubling manner, they frequently lose their possessions not due to powerful adversaries, but rather at the hands of the ordinary because their hearts are wholly turned against righteousness.

Job's rebuke of his companions for their unreasoned remarks, expressed so candidly, provokes the ire of one named Baldad. He retaliates against Job with harshness, using Job’s own declaration of impending death as evidence of his sinfulness. The very nature of creation is such that the wicked, when faced with suffering, do not escape but instead culminate their trials with death.