Job 31:28Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Since both the sun and moon appear to offer tangible benefits yet simultaneously serve as objects of veneration, Job emphasizes that he never allowed his heart to revel in the sight of the sun and moon, nor did he express appreciation in the form of a kiss, which symbolizes adoration. If he had indeed done so, he would deem it a serious sin and a repudiation of the Most High.

Having demonstrated his possession of exceptional virtues, Job’s assertion about not venerating the sun and moon stands out. Notably, after asserting his disinterest in wealth and material riches, he moves to discuss even loftier matters to provide deeper insight into his character. Thus, he states that if he were to gaze upon the radiance of the sun or the brilliance of the moon, and if his heart rejoiced in secret, one must ponder what 'gazing' signifies in this context if not ‘looking with longing.’ The Psalmist reflects this truth when he says, "If I had seen iniquity in my heart, the Lord would not have heard" (Psalms 66:18); any iniquity could not have found its way into speech without first being contemplated within the heart.

However, there exists a distinction between seeing with the intent to decide and seeing with the longing of desire. Hence, through his words, Job reveals that he never allowed himself to be drawn to the mere outward light of this temporal existence. It is as though, after dismissing his earthly treasures, he declares: 'I have not only shunned rejoicing in gold but have also turned away from delighting in the light of the flesh itself.' The saints, after renouncing the ephemeral pleasures of this life and embracing the sweetness of inner illumination, consciously turn their minds away from the external allure as though it were a form of darkness. They diligently strive to prevent themselves from being tempted by the charms of outward light.

If the visible radiance is carelessly exalted, one risks becoming blind to the invisible light; thus, the more the soul is engaged in the external, the less it engages with profound inner truths. Consequently, the wise of heart, aware of this danger, continuously strive to center themselves through the inward discipline of self-control, seeking to attain a deeper inwardness as they withdraw from external distractions. This commitment allows Job to establish a firm resolve in his heart, steering clear of worldly desires, as he attests, "The day of man have I not desired, Thou knowest" (Jeremiah 17:16). In parallel, Job articulates a similar sentiment as the prophet, stating, "If I looked at the sun when it shone, or at the moon as it marched in brightness," ensuring that his heart did not ‘rejoice secretly’ because he could not find delight in that which he perceived without an underlying desire for joy.

His home was always open to travelers, and Job felt so blameless that he could confront the Almighty in judgment without fear of incurring the curse that once fell upon Adam for his transgressions.

In Job’s character and actions, we recognize not only the righteousness of the Old Testament faithful but also the elevated virtues that reflect the essence of New Testament believers. Job’s speeches, particularly the final one, serve as a poignant summary of his entire life, articulated by Job himself. We see him as a family man, a judge, and a leader; we understand his interactions with peers and those of lesser status, as well as his treatment of the unfortunate, revealing his overt actions and deepest motives. His narrative encompasses the fullness of his existence: the joy of his past, the sorrow of his present, and his hopes for the future. This portrayal encapsulates Job entirely, and it is fitting for him to conclude his defense against his friends with this testament of his innocence. The concluding section of Job’s speech is particularly notable, as it reflects his profound journey throughout the text.