Job 21:26Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

After Sophar's remarks, which asserted that this has been the case since humanity's creation (Job 20:4), Job admonishes him for his lack of understanding. He points out, “You claim that these events occur, yet the contrary also unfolds. Thus, let no one presume to grasp the hidden counsel of God through which all things come to pass. In reality, consider this: those who are not evil, why do they suffer? Meanwhile, one is starving, and another is affluent, even though their iniquities are alike.”

Verse 26. They shall indeed lie in the dust, and the worm shall envelop them (Job 21:26). Is it really surprising that these individuals, who may achieve temporary prominence in the highs and lows of earthly existence, ultimately return to the ground due to the decay of the flesh? Therefore, what truly matters is life, which, along with the resurrection of the body, leads to a distinct reward. After all, what value is there in the strength and prosperity of the wicked, what significance do “wealth and wisdom” hold, if everything remains behind in an instant, while there is a judgment that can never be escaped? Just as the joy of the wicked fades into sorrow, likewise, the anguish of the righteous soul transitions from suffering to bliss. Consequently, neither wealth should elevate the spirit, nor should poverty unsettle it. Thus, the blessed Job, enduring physical affliction, experiences no distress of the mind. Yet, for those who scorn him for his suffering, he retorts with disdain, saying:

Job ceases to seek solace from his companions; instead, he desires their silence so he can freely express his grievances regarding his anguish until he has said all he must (21: 1-6). Their attempts to illustrate the fate of the evildoers met with brief pleasure are futile: there are numerous instances where the wicked exist and pass away in complete contentment (7-13). They deny Divine Providence (14-15); unexpected demise does not instill fear in them (16-18), and the misfortunes of their descendants do not trouble them (19-21). After all this, who can instruct God on the distribution of joy and sorrow among humankind (22)? In God’s sight, both the unrighteous and the virtuous meet the same end (23-26).