Job 21:6Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Observe how he justifies himself in every situation, how he mentions affliction, and how he identifies the source of the problems he intends to discuss. He expresses these thoughts not of his own volition, nor with clarity of thought, but rather from a troubled spirit and a clouded understanding.

As soon as I recall, I am filled with dread, and fear envelops my being, as stated in Job 21:6. The evidence of Job's integrity is clear from his earlier declarations. Therefore, when he expresses to his companions that he is filled with fear and his flesh trembles upon reflection, it is evident that this statement is made somewhat sarcastically. It suggests, in direct terms, 'If I were to remember any hypocrisy within myself, I would immediately be overcome with remorse and fear.' Furthermore, he emphasizes that if he had indeed remembered, his physical body would have quaked, indicating that thoughts of his shortcomings would lead him to despair over potential retribution. However, after Sophar’s numerous remarks regarding the swift judgment of the unrighteous, which seemed aimed at undermining the righteous achievements of Job, the blessed man responds to his assertions by saying:

Job no longer seeks solace from his companions; instead, he desires their silence so he can express his grievances regarding his afflictions until he has said all he wishes (21:1-6). Their attempts to illustrate that the wicked face punishment after fleeting joy are futile, as numerous examples exist of the wicked who live and die in complete bliss (7-13). They dismiss Divine Providence (14-15); they are untroubled by the prospect of sudden death (16-18), and the unfortunate fates of their children do not disturb them (19-21). Who, then, can accurately dictate to God the manner in which happiness and misery are allotted to humanity (22)? In the eyes of God, both the just and the unjust meet the same fate in death (23-26).