If one wishes to comprehend the allegorical interpretation behind the statement, "And yet they shall lie in the dust, and the worm shall cover them," it can be succinctly understood as reiterated in this text concerning the treacherous wealthy man. He declared that his innards are filled with fat, and his bones are filled with intellect. Just as "fat" originates from an overabundance of food, so does pride emerge from a surplus of possessions, which bloats the mind with material wealth and inflates the spirit with arrogance. The pride of the heart is akin to riches as it pertains to excess. Thus, many commit sins as a result of abundance; the prophet states, "Their iniquity came as it were out of fatness" (Psalms 72:7). Consequently, it follows that his bones receive nourishment from intellect. Those who love this life possess "bones," symbolizing their strong ethical standings in this world, but if they lack worldly wealth, they may have "bones" but no "intellect" within them. Conversely, if an individual who loves this world possesses both outward authority and an excessive supply of earthly comforts, it is written: "and his bones are filled with intellect."
Alternatively, it can be construed that “the bones of the wealthy” represent harmful and stubborn habits, while “the intellect in his bones” depicts insatiable desires for wickedness that, even amid evil gratification, remain unfulfilled. Such intellect, so to speak, nourishes the bones as corrupted desires bolster sinful behaviors in pursuit of pleasure.
Some individuals may lack material wealth but yearn to acquire it. They strive to elevate themselves, even in a position lacking fortune or influence, yet their base desires make them feel guilty in the eyes of their inner judge. It often causes deep sorrow for many who cannot attain wealth and subsequently carry themselves with pride. Concerning such individuals, it is also noted: "And another dies in the sorrow of his soul, and without riches." It shows how, just as the wealthy man finds empty joy in pride, the poor one experiences an equally empty sorrow in his pride. The following statement is aptly made about them: "And yet they shall lie in the dust, and the worm shall cover them." To "lie in the dust" symbolizes the closing of one’s mind to earthly cravings; hence, it is said regarding all living in sin, "Arise, thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall lighten thee" (Eph. 5:14). The "worms" that emerge from the flesh cover them because carnal concerns weigh heavily on the minds of both the rich and the poor. In earthly matters, those seeking worldly satisfaction, regardless of their position, share similar anxieties—some already possess certain comforts that cause them anguish, while others covet these same comforts, leading to additional distress from their inability to acquire them. Thus, it can be said, "Yet they shall lie in the dust, and the worm shall cover them." Even though their worldly statuses may differ, in their pursuit of earthly goods, they remain lulled and blinded by their unfeeling desires. The worms cover both the rich and the poor alike because the anxieties tied to possession and the fear of loss are carnal thoughts that envelop them both.
However, the blessed Job, who was never lifted by material acquisitions, nor troubled by their loss, remained free from the consuming "worms" of his heart. Since he did not drown in worldly possessions, he did not "lie in the dust." He further states, "Behold, I know your thoughts and the schemes you have falsely devised against me," as it is written, "Which of men knoweth what is in man, except the spirit of man that dwelleth in him?" (1 Cor. 2:11). In this similar vein, it is stated here, "Behold, I know your thoughts." The spirit of man is often concealed from others unless it manifests through words or actions. It is written, "Therefore by their fruits ye shall know them" (Matthew 7:20), for through outward deeds, the true nature within is revealed. This is echoed in the wisdom of Solomon, who said, "As in water the face of the beholder shines, so the hearts of men shine with wisdom" (Proverbs 27:19). Again, blessed Job, acknowledging his understanding of his friends’ thoughts, follows with the remark: “and the schemes you have falsely devised against me.” By exposing their hidden intentions, he reveals what was concealed within them. Thus, he voices their malicious thoughts: “You shall say, Where is the house of the prince? and where are the dwellings of the wicked?”
Those who desire success in worldly happiness often wish for wickedness and fear punishment. They assess others' transgressions based on their visible sufferings; those they see afflicted are perceived as deserving God's wrath. Consequently, Job's friends believed that because he was afflicted, he must be guilty. This mentality persists among those still burdened by their ailments, who focus solely on satisfying the present life and have not learned to transcend toward the eternal fulfillment. Hence, it is fittingly stated…
THEOSIS