Job 6:3Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Polychronius and Chrysostom suggest that the phrase "as if" (ει γαρ) replaces "oh, if only" (ειθε γαρ). The term "cries" (’anger‘) reflects the anguish and distress of the spirit caused by adversity, while "afflictions" (’diseases") refer to those that inflict harm upon the body, illustrating the burden of suffering indicated by the word "together" (’together"). What is expressed can be summarized as follows: "You demonstrate wisdom in observing the hardships of others, and from a distance of my own afflictions, you confidently offer counsel. However, if my pains and ailments were to be placed on a scale alongside the sands of the sea, they would outweigh them." The comparison to the sand reflects their greater weight and burden.

One who values a distant homeland above their native land finds it impossible to mourn, even in times of distress. In contrast, the speech of a just person is laden with grief, for as Job bears his current tribulations, he reflects deeply on an alternative reality. All his afflictions due to his sins are ever present before him, and he thoughtfully considers the decrees that cloud his path in hopes of returning to a place of joy.

When Eliphaz assumed that Job’s declarations stemmed from despair and his displeasure towards him, he contended that Job was enduring his suffering due to his transgressions. In response, Job admits that his words may lack value, indicating a lack of trust in them. He further articulates that the Lord’s arrows pierce his body, implying that the reason for his unfavorable words is the pain inflicted upon him by the Lord. Many individuals often underestimate the statements made by those enduring hardship and deprivation, despite their wisdom. This reflects the sentiment captured in the phrase, "A poor man has spoken, and they say, ‘This is who he is’" (Sir. 13:23).

Job, overwhelmed by his immense suffering, found himself cursing the day he was born. Instead of offering him comfort, Eliphaz admonished him for lacking patience, implying that Job might be guilty of hidden transgressions. In reply, Job asserted that if his afflictions were measured, it would become clear that his lamentations were still too mild, indicating that he has borne too much, as no burden could surpass his anguish. Concurrently, Job yearned for swift death to put an end to his torment. He expressed sorrow over the betrayal of his companions, who, rather than providing solace, condemned his misfortune as a sign of sinfulness merely because he had faced divine punishment. In light of their inadequate comfort, Job challenged his friends to furnish evidence of his wrongdoing or to clarify the true nature of his suffering.