Job 22:29Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

For he who has been humbled will receive glory, and he who lowers his gaze shall be delivered, as noted in Job 22:29. This concept aligns with the words of Truth, who stated, "For whosoever exalteth himself shall be humbled, and he that humbles himself shall be exalted" (Luke 14:11). Solomon wisely observed, "Before the fall the heart of man is exalted in arrogance, and glory precedes humility" (Proverbs 18:13). He rightly declared, "And he that hath cast down his eyes shall also be saved," recognizing that many who serve have demonstrated that the initial sign of pride often arises from one's gaze. Therefore, it is written, "and he that looketh down shall be humbled" (Psalms 17:28).

Eliphaz delivers his final accusation against Job, attempting to demonstrate that since a person's righteousness does not benefit God, the afflictions that come from God should be regarded as expressions of His impartial judgment (22:1-4). He argues that it is sinful for a person to neglect an opportunity to assist their neighbor (5-9). Job is suffering precisely because of these sins (10-11). He futilely reassures himself with the notion that God, in His majesty, is above the trivial matters of earthly life (12-14). This mindset mirrors that of the ancient wicked who held similar beliefs about God and faced sudden destruction by flood and fire (15-20). Therefore, Job is urged to approach God with humility and repentance, and in response, the Lord will restore His favor and grant him joy (21-30). These passages subtly reference the flood and the demise of Sodom.