Finding Comfort in Suffering: A Coptic Orthodox Commentary on Job 6

Executive Summary ✨

Job 6, a poignant cry from the depths of human suffering, unveils Job’s desperate attempt to justify his anguish. It’s a chapter that resonates deeply with anyone who has experienced intense pain, loss, or despair. Our *quest for understanding* is not unique. Job’s lament isn’t merely a personal grievance; it’s a theological wrestling match, questioning the very nature of divine justice and the purpose of suffering. Through the lens of Coptic Orthodox tradition, we explore Job’s intense emotional and physical distress, examining his longing for death, his disappointment in his friends, and his plea for understanding. We will delve into the rich tapestry of scripture, Patristic wisdom, and the enduring power of faith amidst trials, providing a framework for navigating our own “Job-like” experiences.

Introduction: Job 6 unveils Job’s profound suffering and his desperate attempt to justify his anguish before his friends. The chapter is a raw and honest portrayal of human pain and a yearning for understanding amidst unimaginable trials. His words echo the cries of humanity throughout the ages, reminding us that suffering is an integral part of the human experience. This *quest for understanding*, though difficult, is necessary for spiritual growth.

Commentary on Job 6: My Anguish Is Justified 📖

Job 6:1-3

Job 6:1-3 (KJV): But Job answered and said, Oh that my grief were throughly weighed, and my calamity laid in the balances together! For now it would be heavier than the sand of the sea: therefore my words are swallowed up. For the arrows of the Almighty are within me, the poison whereof drinketh up my spirit: the terrors of God do set themselves in array against me.

Job 6:1-3 (NKJV): Then Job answered and said: “Oh, that my grief were fully weighed, And my calamity laid with it on the scales! For then it would be heavier than the sand of the sea—Therefore my words have been rash. For the arrows of the Almighty are within me; My spirit drinks in their poison; The terrors of God are arrayed against me.”

Job’s opening words express an overwhelming sense of grief and despair. He wishes his suffering could be weighed, certain that it would outweigh even the sand of the sea – an ancient near-eastern expression for immeasurable quantity. He feels pierced by “the arrows of the Almighty,” a vivid image of divine punishment. This resonates with Psalm 38:2, “For Your arrows pierce me deeply, and Your hand presses down on me,” depicting the acute physical and emotional torment inflicted by God.

Patristic Insight: St. Athanasius, in *De Incarnatione*, reminds us that God’s chastisements are not meant for destruction but for correction: “τὴν γὰρ διόρθωσιν οὐ τὴν ἀναίρεσιν τῶν πεπλαστμένων προτίθεται” (For He intends the correction, not the annihilation, of what He has fashioned). God allows suffering to refine us, purging away the dross of sin and drawing us closer to Him.

Spiritual Application: When facing intense suffering, remember that God’s hand, though seemingly harsh, is ultimately guided by love. Allow suffering to refine your character and deepen your trust in Him. Like Job, we can express our raw emotions to God, knowing He understands our pain. Consider using website builder services to create a personal space where you can journal your thoughts, prayers and reflections during difficult times.

Job 6:4-7

Job 6:4-7 (KJV): For the arrows of the Almighty are within me, the poison whereof drinketh up my spirit: the terrors of God do set themselves in array against me. Doth the wild ass bray when he hath grass? or loweth the ox over his fodder? Can that which is unsavoury be eaten without salt? or is there any taste in the white of an egg? The thing that my soul refused to touch are as my sorrowful meat.

Job 6:4-7 (NKJV): For the arrows of the Almighty are within me; My spirit drinks in their poison; The terrors of God are arrayed against me. Does the wild donkey bray when it has grass? Or does the ox low over its fodder? Can flavorless food be eaten without salt? Or is there any taste in the white of an egg? My soul refuses to touch them; They are as loathsome food to me.

Job transitions to questioning the natural order. He uses the analogy of animals not crying out when they have their needs met to suggest that his cries are justified because he is truly suffering. He asks if bland food can be eaten without salt, implying that his life has become tasteless and unbearable. The “white of an egg” refers to something utterly without flavor or appeal. Job is essentially saying, “I wouldn’t complain if I wasn’t in such agonizing pain.”

Contextual Insight: The reference to the wild donkey (onager) highlights the arid environment of the region. The onager’s braying would only be heard if it were searching for food and water, indicating distress. This emphasizes Job’s desperate situation.

Spiritual Application: Sometimes, we may feel our suffering is dismissed or minimized. Job’s example reminds us to honestly express our pain, trusting that God understands the depth of our experience. Don’t be afraid to voice your struggles and seek support from trusted friends and spiritual advisors.

Job 6:8-13: A Longing for Death

Job 6:8-13 (KJV): Oh that I might have my request; and that God would grant me the thing that I long for! Even that it would please God to destroy me; that he would let loose his hand, and cut me off! Then should I yet have comfort; yea, I would harden myself in sorrow: for I have not concealed the words of the Holy One. What is my strength, that I should hope? and what is mine end, that I should prolong my life? Is my strength the strength of stones? or is my flesh of brass? Is not my help in me? and is wisdom driven quite from me?

Job 6:8-13 (NKJV): “Oh, that I might have my request, That God would grant me the thing that I long for! That it would please God to crush me, That He would loose His hand and cut me off! Then I would still have comfort; Though in anguish I would exult, For I have not concealed the words of the Holy One. What strength do I have, that I should hope? And what is my end, that I should prolong my life? Is my strength the strength of stones? Or is my flesh bronze? Is my help not within me? And is wisdom driven from me?”

Here, Job expresses his yearning for death as a release from his suffering. He believes that even in death, he would find comfort because he has been faithful to God. He highlights his physical and emotional exhaustion, questioning what strength he possesses to endure this prolonged agony. “Is my strength the strength of stones? or is my flesh of brass?” paints a picture of his complete vulnerability. He feels abandoned and stripped of all inner resources.

Biblical Connection: This longing for death echoes similar sentiments in other biblical texts, such as Elijah’s plea in 1 Kings 19:4, “I have had enough, Lord. Take my life, for I am no better than my ancestors.” Even great prophets experienced moments of profound despair.

Spiritual Application: While Job’s longing for death is understandable in his context, the Coptic Orthodox Church emphasizes the sanctity of life. In moments of intense despair, we should turn to prayer, seeking God’s strength and guidance. We must remember that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope in Christ. This *quest for understanding* must be rooted in prayer.

Job 6:14-30: Disappointment with Friends

Job 6:14-30 (KJV): To him that is afflicted pity should be shewed from his friend; but he forsaketh the fear of the Almighty. My brethren have dealt deceitfully as a brook, and as the stream of brooks they pass away; Which are blackish by reason of the ice, and wherein the snow is hid: What time they wax warm, they vanish: when it is hot, they are consumed out of their place. The paths of their way are turned aside; they go to nothing, and perish. The troops of Tema looked, the companies of Sheba waited for them. They were confounded because they had hoped; they came thither, and were ashamed. For now ye are nothing: ye see my casting down, and are afraid. Did I say, Bring unto me? or, Give a reward for me of your substance? Or, Deliver me from the enemy’s hand? or, Redeem me from the hand of the mighty? Teach me, and I will hold my tongue: and cause me to understand wherein I have erred. How forcible are right words! but what doth your arguing reprove? Do ye imagine to reprove words, and the speeches of one that is desperate, which are as wind? Yea, ye overwhelm the fatherless, and ye dig a pit for your friend. Now therefore be content, look upon me; for it is evident unto you if I lie. Return, I pray you, let it not be iniquity; yea, return again, my righteousness is in it. Is there iniquity in my tongue? cannot my taste discern perverse things?

Job 6:14-30 (NKJV): “To him who is afflicted, kindness should be shown by his friend, Even though he may forsake the fear of the Almighty. My brothers have dealt deceitfully like a brook, Like the torrent of brooks that pass away, Which are dark because of the ice, And thicken with snow. When it is warm, they cease to flow; When it is hot, they vanish from their place. The paths of their way turn aside, They go nowhere and vanish. The caravans of Tema look, The travelers of Sheba eagerly wait for them. They are disappointed because they had hoped; They come there and are ashamed. For now you are nothing; You see my calamity and are afraid. Did I ever say, ‘Bring something to me’? Or, ‘Offer a bribe for me from your wealth’? Or, ‘Deliver me from the enemy’s hand’? Or, ‘Redeem me from the hand of the mighty’? Teach me, and I will hold my tongue; Cause me to understand wherein I have erred. How forceful are right words! But what does your arguing prove? Do you intend to rebuke my words, When words are blowing in the wind, And the speech of a desperate man? Yes, you overwhelm the fatherless, And you undermine your friend. Now therefore, be pleased to look at me; For surely I would not lie to you. Return, please let there be no injustice! Yes, turn back, my righteousness still remains! Is there injustice on my tongue? Cannot my taste discern perverse things?”

Job expresses profound disappointment in his friends, comparing them to unreliable brooks that dry up when needed most. He accuses them of being afraid of his suffering and offering empty platitudes instead of genuine support. He challenges them to teach him where he has erred, promising to listen if they offer constructive criticism. He defends his words, asserting that a desperate man’s speech should not be judged too harshly. He pleads with them to see his integrity and truthfulness.

Geographical Context: The mention of Tema and Sheba highlights the trading routes through Arabia. Caravans depended on reliable water sources. The disappointment of these travelers mirrors Job’s disappointment in his friends.

Patristic Insight: St. John Chrysostom, in his homilies on friendship, emphasizes the importance of genuine compassion and support during times of adversity: “Οὐ γὰρ τὸ ἀπολαύειν τῶν φίλων μόνον δεῖ, ἀλλὰ καὶ τὸ συνδεινοπαθεῖν αὐτοῖς” (For we must not only enjoy our friends but also suffer with them). True friendship involves sharing in the burdens of others.

Spiritual Application: Job’s experience teaches us the importance of being a true friend, offering empathy, support, and understanding during times of suffering. Avoid judgmental or dismissive attitudes. Instead, strive to be a source of comfort and encouragement, reflecting the love of Christ.

Subtopic: The Role of Friendship in Suffering 🤝

True friendship is tested in the crucible of suffering. Job’s experience highlights the profound impact that friends can have, both positive and negative, during times of intense trial.

• Empathy is Key: Offer genuine empathy and understanding, acknowledging the depth of the other person’s pain.
• Be Present: Simply being present and available can be more helpful than offering advice.
• Listen Actively: Listen without judgment, allowing the person to express their feelings and thoughts freely.
• Offer Practical Support: Provide practical assistance, such as running errands, preparing meals, or helping with childcare.
• Pray Together: Pray for and with the person who is suffering, entrusting them to God’s loving care.
• Avoid Judgment: Refrain from judging or criticizing the person’s actions or beliefs.

FAQ ❓

Q: Why does Job long for death in Job 6?

A: Job longs for death as a release from his overwhelming physical and emotional suffering. He believes that even in death, he would find comfort because he has remained faithful to God, despite his trials. This is not an endorsement of suicide, but rather an expression of his desperation.

Q: What is the significance of Job’s comparison of his friends to unreliable brooks?

A: Job compares his friends to unreliable brooks that dry up when needed most to illustrate their failure to provide him with genuine support and comfort. Just as travelers depend on reliable water sources, Job expected his friends to offer him solace and understanding, but they have disappointed him.

Q: How does Coptic Orthodox theology view suffering?

A: Coptic Orthodox theology views suffering as a complex reality that can serve various purposes. It can be a consequence of sin, a test of faith, or an opportunity for spiritual growth. While God does not desire suffering, He can use it to refine our character, draw us closer to Him, and prepare us for eternal life. It’s part of our *quest for understanding* the divine will.

Conclusion ✨

Job 6 is a powerful reminder that suffering is an inescapable part of the human condition. Job’s raw and honest expression of pain, his longing for death, and his disappointment in his friends resonate deeply with anyone who has experienced intense trials. Through the lens of Coptic Orthodox tradition, we can find comfort and guidance in navigating our own “Job-like” experiences. Remember that God is present even in the darkest of times, and that through faith, prayer, and the support of true friends, we can find strength and hope amidst suffering. The *quest for understanding* is a journey we undertake with God.

Tags

Job, Suffering, Coptic Orthodox, Theology, Patristic, Commentary, Faith, Hope, Despair, Friendship

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Explore Job 6 with a Coptic Orthodox lens. Discover insights on suffering, faith, and friendship from scripture and Patristic wisdom. Understand Job’s *quest for understanding*!