The Church Fathers on this verse

Job 5:9Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Who doth great things, and unsearchable and wonderful things without number:

Douay-Rheims

עֹשֶׂ֣ה גְ֭דֹלוֹת וְאֵ֣ין חֵ֑קֶר נִ֝פְלָא֗וֹת עַד־אֵ֥ין מִסְפָּֽר׃

Hebrew (Masoretic text)

The Church Fathers on this verse

2 Church Fathers comment on this verse

Didymus the Blind

4th centuryTeacher of the Church

He acknowledges God as the Sustainer and Creator of all creation. It is quite possible that he harbors such insights. He also holds an understanding of both the visible and the invisible realms, referring to the unfathomable, the great and wondrous, and to rain and water, suggesting that if God were to separate the waters of rain, they would nourish springs, streams, and brooks. These concepts are expressed more clearly in other passages of Scripture, particularly by Paul, who states, “For by him all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth” (Colossians 1:16). Additionally, one must reflect on the experiences of St. Job, who, like someone struck by fear, was astonished by the workings of Providence.

Read more (120 words)

It should be noted that many of the words he uttered were from a human perspective, as God is aware of all truths. Thus, it is not surprising that Solomon would declare, “God has granted me wisdom to know about things that exist, the structure of the universe, the activities of the elements, the beginning and end, and the turning points of time” (Proverbs 7:17-18). The countless elements of nature are not beyond God's understanding, as it is written, “He counts the number of the stars” (Psalm 146:4) and “Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered” (Luke 12:7). This profound knowledge is a gift, intended for the benefit of those deemed worthy, as noted in Solomon’s sayings.

Ireneus (Orda)

19th centuryCommentator

It is futile for Job to seek assistance from someone powerful or righteous, as calamity relentlessly follows the unjust. Even when the wicked appear to enjoy temporary success, they soon meet their end along with their entire household. Indeed, every person is born into a world of trials; however, prayers directed to the Almighty and Just One provide salvation for the faithful, while only the unrighteous are ultimately brought low. The hardships that the upright endure should be embraced with joy, serving as a promise of blessings to come. Experience affirms this truth, Eliphaz concludes, and Job should reflect on these teachings in relation to his own life.

Cross references

Passages read together with this verse.