Job 5:6Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

What is it they possess? Do they rely on a specialized trade? No, for neither the earth nor the mountains, which lack understanding: this, he states, is a natural creation, unable to escape calamity. To prevent anyone from claiming righteousness, he affirms that humanity is inherently flawed, not free from sin. Thus, Eliphaz provides evidence from the natural world, asserting that it is typical for humanity to face trials through hardship. From the moment of birth, one is destined to toil, and their entire existence is marked by labor and grief. Consequently, our human condition is inferior to that of the earth and mountains, as it is laden with sorrow from birth and development. Birds, on the other hand, are granted the ability to soar freely and obtain sustenance effortlessly; for humans, such ease is only possible through toil.

The young birds will spread their wings over him. These words reveal that sin is the root of the suffering experienced by humanity. From another perspective, we can interpret this to mean that angels, referred to as "winged sons," are dispatched by God to either admonish and discipline us when we transgress or to shield and deliver us when we seek repentance.

In his discourse, he characterizes various struggles as evils, including poverty, illness, disgrace, and dishonor. He notes that it is intrinsic to humanity to encounter misfortunes. Yet, this notion can also serve as a source of solace, as many affirm that one's suffering stems from the very nature of humankind, for we are destined to endure trials. The process of birth itself is fraught with difficulty and pain, as those who give life face numerous hardships, and those who enter this world experience their own distress.

It is thereby futile for Job to seek help from someone who is mighty or virtuous; calamity relentlessly follows the unrighteous. Even when they seem to have success, their downfall is swift and complete (1-5). From the moment of birth, every individual is fated to endure hardship; yet, sincere prayer to the Almighty and Just One rescues those who revere Him, while only the sinful and dishonest face ruin (b-16). Suffering encountered by the just should be embraced with joy, as it signifies the promise of future blessings (17-2b). Eliphaz concludes that experience supports this view, and thus Job should reflect on his life in accordance with this wisdom (27).