Job 21:24Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Following Sophar's earlier remarks, which indicated that this situation has existed since humanity was established on the earth (Job 20:4), Job admonishes him for his lack of understanding regarding the evident truth. He asserts, "You claim that this is the way things are, yet the contrary can also be true. Therefore, let no one presume to comprehend the divine will, by which all events unfold. Tell me, if those are not evil, why do they face adversity? One suffers from hunger while another lives in abundance, although both share the same moral failings."

The happiness of each individual ought to be assessed not by material abundance but by the condition of their conscience, which serves to differentiate between righteous and wrongful deeds, acting as the authentic and untainted standard of justice and recompense. The righteous may perish while maintaining their purity and exercising their own volition, as though their spirit were enriched and fortified.

One passes away while in the peak of his vitality, enjoying wealth and success. His insides are overflowing with abundance, and his frame is robust. Conversely, another departs while burdened by anguish, lacking any material possessions. Job 21:23-25. These realities are undeniable, leading us to ponder who has the capacity to explore the enigmas of the Almighty to understand the reasons for such occurrences. Regarding the chosen and the condemned, their existences exhibit stark contrasts, yet the decay of the body in death is alike for all. Thus, it is further stated:

Job no longer seeks solace from his companions; rather, he desires their silence so he can voice his grievances regarding his afflictions until the very end (21: 1-6). Despite their attempts to illustrate the punishment of the wicked who experience brief joy, there are numerous instances of the wicked living and dying in complete bliss (7-13). They dismiss Divine Providence (14-15); the suddenness of death does not instill fear in them (16-18), nor does the unfortunate fate of their descendants cause them distress (19-21). Who, then, can dictate to God the manner in which happiness and sorrow are allocated among humanity (22)? In the eyes of God, both the unrighteous and the righteous meet the same fate in death (23-26).