1G OD’S TESTIMONY TO ‘JOB’ The scene begins in the province of Edom; with a righteous man who worshipped the true God like the patriarch fathers, and practiced the priestly work to the account of his family. There is another scene in heaven, unknown even to ‘Job’; but was proclaimed by God to the author of the book, in which God proclaimed His care for mankind, especially those who believe in Him. The Holy Book demonstrates, especially in this book, that Satan knows no slothfulness, but keeps on exerting every effort to oppose God in the humanity worshipping Him, and never stops complaining against the believers; God, on the other hand, takes on Himself the role of defending them; as they are the object of His divine interest and exalted care; Yet He may allow for them to pass through temptations, in order that their crowns may glitter more. 1- Job’s piety and riches 1 – 3 2- Family feasts 4 – 5 3- Satan’s complaint 6 – 12 4- Successive tribulations 13 – 19 5- ‘Job’ the thankful 20 – 22 1- JOB’ S PIETY AND RICHES: “There was a man in the land of ‘Uz’, whose name was ‘Job’; and that man was blameless and upright, and one who feared God and shunned evil” (Job 1: 1) The attention of many fathers is drawn by such a kind of great commendation given to ‘Job’; namely, that he was “a man”. The scholar Origen says, that, although many are called ‘men’, Yet, they may behave like wild beasts, and dumb animals,and not like men, created by God, the Philanthropic. This name ‘man’, as defined by the Holy Book, does not apply to not any one with hands and feet; or any one who just have reason; but to him, who practices piety, and virtue with courage1. St. John Chrysostom There are many who are called ‘men’, Yet, they are not truly so! Some of them behave like beasts; others like Reptiles, or like any voracious animals. That is why David says: “Man, though in honor,…; but he is like the beasts that perish” (Psalm 49: 12)… The word ‘man’ is surely used for him who bears the image of God (Genesis 1: 27); Who fittingly keep his honor; who discerns between good and evil; and in whom “The glory of God endures forever; and the Lord rejoice in His work’” (Psalm 104: 31). Thus, "the man in the land of Uz." Attach the region has been a lonely, but the implantation ... Job treasure was not lacking anything. Was filled with oppression planted the grape harvest. Was complete (true) like true creature of God, as used for the calculation of the right qualities without hypocrisy, and an integral part of God's commands ... his worships was as God wanted. Father Hesychius of Jerusalem 1 Second Instruction, 1. 2 The Edomites used to live in the land of ‘Uz’ in the days of the prophet Jeremiah (Lamentations 4: 21); believed by some to be between Damascus and Edom, in the Syrian desert; and by others to be ‘Haran’, between Palestine and Arabia, Northeast of the River Euphrates, on the caravan route between Egypt and Babylon. Tradition believes that ‘Haran’ is the home of ‘Job’, east of the Sea of Galilee, a very fertile land, which used to include about 300 little towns. ‘Uz’, probably, was not very far from ‘Ur’ of the Chaldeans, from where Abraham was called by God. Although God called Abraham from there to set from his seed a chosen people; Yet, there, God still had a remnant to testify to Him among the Gentiles, to realize His plan toward mankind, whom we enjoy seeing, together with St. John in his revelation: “A great multitude which no one could number, of all nations, tribes, peoples, and tongues, standing before the throne” (Revelation 7: 9). God took Abraham out of that corrupted land; calling His elect to separate themselves from evil; Yet He allowed for ‘Job’ to remain there, to testify to His divine light in the midst of a pitch darkness; like a star amid the darkness of the night. To reveal the worthiness of his virtue, we are told where this man lived. ‘Uz’ was a Gentile land; namely, under the authority of the devil. Telling us where he lived is a commendation to him. He was a good man living among wicked people. It is not such a great commendation to be a good man living among good men; But to say that you are a good man living among wicked men, is un-comparable testimony. About the righteous ‘Lot’ it was said: “He was oppressed with the filthy conduct of the wicked among whom he was dwelling (for the soul of that righteous man was tormented from day to day by seeing and hearing their lawless deeds)” (2 Peter 2: 7-8)… And the apostle Paul says to his disciples: “...In the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world” (Philippians 2: 15). And to the angel of the church of Pergamos, God said: “I know your works, and where you dwell, where Satan’s throne is. And you held fast to My name, and did not deny My faith” (Revelation 2: 13). And the church was commended by the voice of the divine Groom, saying: “Like a lily among thorns, So is my love among the daughters” (Song of Solomon 2: 2). About ‘Job’ it was said: “He shunned evil”; As it was said: “Depart from evil, and do good” (Psalm 37: 27). Good deeds would surely be unacceptable by God, if they are tinted and mixed with wicked deeds. As it is said by Solomon: “One sinner destroys much good” (Ecclesiastes 9: 18); And as testified by St. James who says: “Whoever shall keep the whole law, and yet stumble in one point, he is guilty of all” (James 2: 10); and by St. Paul who says: “A little leaven leavens the whole lump” (1 Corinthians 5: 6). Therefore, it was befitting to say that ‘Job’ turned away from evil, to demonstrate how that righteous man was without a wrinkle, and abided in his good deeds. Pope Gregory the Great The word of God testifies to ‘Job’ that he was “blameless and upright, and one who feared God and shunned evil”. 1- “Blameless” is here relative; It does not mean (without sin); but rather (seeks blamelessness), tirelessly, and as much as he could. 3 When the apostle says about himself that he is both blameful and blameless; He counts himself blameful, because there is much that he still lacks; But blameless, when he is not ashamed to admit his shortcomings; and that he tries hard to reach blamelessness1. St. Augustine There are two forms of blamelessness: One regular, and another exalted. One to be acquired here in this world,; and another to be sought later on.. One according to human abilities; and another concerning the coming world. God, on the other hand is Just through all; wise above all, and blameless in all2. St. Ambrose 2- “Upright” in his dealings with God and with people; namely, has the spirit of simplicity without twists, or inner diversion. What he practices reveals what is actually in his heart without hypocrisy. He is upright in his behavior; particularly in his thoughts; faithful in his time, and in the talents given to him by God. 3- “feared God” He worshipped God with the spirit of piety; not with dry formalities with no spirit. He sought to consummate the will of God. In other words, his behavior was in harmony with his worship to God. He feared God, lest he would do wrong toward His majesty and His love. 4- “He shunned evil” The fear of God was like a wall around him, that keeps evil from infiltrating into his mind, heart, or behavior. It is said that he was “without blame”, and not “without sin”... he “without blame” because he was “upright”. He was “true”, because men around him are “liars” (Psalm 62: 9). He was “true”, not only in his words, but also in his deeds; he was “a man of truth”; As “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is the whole duty of man” (Ecclesiastes 12: 13). ‘Job’ was zealous toward his pure behavior. All his virtues were because of his knowledge of God. The knowledge of God is proclaimed in the life of man... He did not say: ‘He did not commit evil’, but said ‘He shunned evil’; namely, he turned away from it... as expressed by the words of the wise Solomon: “Lest I be full and deny You, and say, ‘Who is the Lord?” (Proverbs 30: 9). So you see, man has to be alert; as was the case with ‘Job’. St. John Chrysostom And seven sons and three daughters were born to him” (Job 1: 2) Even with so many children, ‘Job’ was not preoccupied with leaving a great inheritance to each of them; But rather with supporting them with a great inheritance of prayers, praise, spiritual sacrifices, and burnt offerings. The scholar Origen sees in the sons and daughters, a symbol of the work of the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer, by whom he begets, through his soul as well as through his body, spiritual fruition holy to the Lord. In a pious man like ‘Job’, the Spirit of God works, so that the soul harmonizes with the body, to become as a whole under the leadership of the Holy Spirit. Pope Gregory the Great, presents to us in detail, allegoric interpretations for the seven sons and the three daughters, of which we shall quote the following. 1 Two Letters of Pelagius, 3:19. 2Duties of the Clergy, 3:2:11. 4 What does the figure 7 present to us but the wealth of perfection?... The 7 sons represent the ordinance of the preachers; while the three daughters may refer to the three categories of believers in the life of the church… the Shepherds, the virgins, and the married. Seven sons are born to us, when we get (pregnant) with the good intention; to deliver the seven virtues of the Holy Spirit. The prophet Isaiah particularly cared for this spiritual seed, when the Holy Spirit makes the mind embrace the following words: “The Spirit of the Lord will rest upon Him, the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and might, the Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord. His delight is in the fear of the Lord” (Isaiah 11: 2). When, in each of us, with the dwelling of the Holy Spirit, the wisdom, the understanding, the counsel, the might, the knowledge, the piety, and the fear of God, are developed; We would then have in our mind, what keeps the purity of our exalted seed in life. The seven sons in us, surely have three sisters; because each of the sons, works in maturity with virtuous tendencies; uniting with faith, hope, and love. The figure 7, would not reach the perfection of the figure 10, unless everything is done with faith, hope, and love. Pope Gregory the great After speaking about his inner spiritual riches concerning the soul; having seven sons; namely, the gifts of the Holy Spirit, with three daughters; namely, faith, hope, and love; He speaks about his carnal riches. Sons refer to the riches of the Spirit; And the beasts refer to the riches of the body, sanctified in the Lord. He would suffer neither need in the Spirit, nor in the body; as long as the Creator of the soul and the body fulfills his whole being. “Also his possessions were seven thousand sheep, three thousand camels, five hundred yoke of oxen, five hundred female donkeys, and a very large household, so that this man was the greatest of all the people of the east” (Job 1: 3) Beside his great material wealth, he was a righteous man. He started with the sheep, because: “lambs will provide your clothing,...; and goats’ will provide milk for your food, for the food of your household, and the nourishment of your maidservants” (Proverb 27: 26-27). He had a multitude of servants and maidservants in his household. Of the customs which still prevail in the societies of nomads, is to evaluate the wealth of someone, not in terms of the land or houses, but of the number of beasts he possesses. On this scale, Abraham was a very rich man (Genesis 13: 2); So was Lot (Genesis 13: 5); and Job. The female donkeys were mentioned, because of their greater value as milk producers1. Some see in ‘Job’s sheep and camels, a reference to the union of the era of the law with that of the grace. The seven thousand sheep refer to the pasture of the law, that becomes perfect by the spiritual touches (the figure 1000), instead of the letter. Three thousand camels, symbolizing the peoples of the Gentiles who come to join that spiritual pasture of the law, for all to become one flock of One Shepherd. Although ‘Job’ was a very rich man, Yet he lived his life with compassion toward others. His house was open before every one in need; He never oppressed anyone, but helped the oppressed. And, as a righteous rich man, he provided for the widows and the fatherless2. 1 cf. James M. Freeman: Manners and Customs of the Bible, Logos International Plainfield. N J, 1972, p. 207. 2 Fragments, 222, on Luke 16: 19. 5 The scholar Origen 2- FAMILY FEASTS: “Now the sons would go and feast in their houses, each on his appointed day, and would send and invite their three sisters to eat and drink with them” (Job 1: 4) A marvelous portrait of a very rich man and his children, who were not preoccupied with their wealth, as much as with gathering together with the spirit of love and unity; holding feasts in their houses, each on his appointed day, together with their three sisters; according to the words of the Psalmist: “How good and how pleasant it is, for brethren to dwell together in unity” (Psalm 133: 1). In those feasts, we notice the following: 1.They were held in their houses, and not in public places; probably to keep the holy nature of the family, even on happy occasions. 2.Inviting the sisters to those feasts indicate that they were confined to the ‘Job’ family. 3.‘Job’ did not join those feasts; because he assumed that his presence as an old man, would probably interfere with the freedom of his young children to have fun and joy, as long as it is in the Lord. The great wealth are often a cause of controversy between brethren; But here, in this blessed family, peace isproclaimed as filling the hearts of everyone. What a great commendation for the way that father raised his children! Pope Gregory the Great “So it was, when the days of the feasting had run their course, that ‘Job’ would send and sanctify them, and he would rise early in the morning and offer burnt offerings according to the number of them all. For ‘Job’ said, ‘It may be that my sons have sinned and cursed God in their hearts’. Thus ‘Job’ did regularly” (Job 1: 5) Despite not joining his children physically in their feasts, ‘Job’ joined them with the spirit of compassionate fatherhood. He was keen on the salvation of their hearts; fearful, lest they would get defiled even by thought, and be counted as blasphemers against the Holy God. He feared that any of them would think in his depths, saying: ”My power and the might of my hand have gained me this wealth” (Deuteronomy 8; 17); Or as the wise Solomon says: “Lest I be full and deny You, and say, ‘Who is the Lord?’” (Proverb 30: 9). ‘Job’, as the priest of his family, believing that he is unable to sanctify his children, as this is the work of God, he used to offer burnt offerings according to their number. He used to do that, not only at the start of the feast, nor at its end, but all along its days; and even, regularly, all the year long. Although he, most probably offered a burnt offering for the whole family every single day, Yet on the days of the feasts, he used to offer a burnt offering for every one of his children; on account of the fact, that sins, especially of the mind, would find in the feasts, a suitable atmosphere to infiltrate. If the sins committed in ignorance, are said to be so serious, and need a burnt offering to redeem, as testified by the action of ‘Job’; What would it be for those 6 sins that are committed with complete knowledge; or for those we see committed by others, and we keep silent? 1. St. Basil the Great If ‘Job’ offered his sacrifices for the sake of the hidden sins of his children; or those they unknowingly committed; how would it be for the apparent ones?! Notice how the apostle translate this into positive action, saying: “And you fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord” (Ephesians 6: 4); namely that man should care for his children through fatherly protection. Notice the extent of perfection he intends to lead them... As far as the apparent sins are concerned, he could be able to correct them; But what could he do for the hidden ones? It is said to the prophet Moses: “The secret things belong to the Lord our God, but those things which are revealed belong to us and to our children forever” (Deuteronomy 29: 29). Anyway, ‘Job’ did not disregard even the hidden sins in his relationship with God, but committed himself personally to correct the faults of his children by a therapeutic way; that helps him to uproot the sins, and teach his children at the same time… Here you see how ‘Job’ did not only care for their shortcomings as far as their deeds are concerned, but even cared for their thoughts; consummating in a practical way what the Lord Christ will say in the future: “For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts,…These are the things which defile a man” (Matthew 15: 19-20)…. Here you see, not a Mosaic sort of purification, nor according to the law, but an apostolic one; ‘Job’ daily seeks to purify his children, not only through advice and counsel, but also through praying for them. This is not just the task of a father, but that of a priest as well. Although we know, that at that time, there was no priesthood, yet some believe that there were priests like Melchizedek, not chosen by the people. St. John Chrysostom According to the same book, because ignorance is a sin. ‘Job’ offered burnt offerings for his children, for fear that they might have unknowingly sinned in their hearts2. St. Jerome Those words by ‘Job’ tell us how pious he was. There are many who would rise early in the morning to practice the earthly things that they thought about through the night, concerning the ways to wealth, glories and honors. About such people the prophet says: “Woe to those who devise iniquity, and work out evil on their beds! At morning light they practice it” (Micah 2: 1). That was not the case with the righteous ‘Job’, who believed that the true sacrifice is keeping the law and practicing virtues (See Sirach 35: 1-3). In this concern, we have before our eyes the words of the apostle Paul, saying: “Let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God,... But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased” (Hebrew 13: 15-16). “For ‘Job’ said, ‘It may be that my sons have sinned and cursed God in their hearts” (Job 1: 5). As a wise father and an experienced guide, he did not stop at praying, and saying: ”Who can understand his errors? Cleanse me from secret faults” (Psalm 19: 12); but walked according to both the law and the grace; and according to the commandment of the gospel: “…Those who have heard the word with a noble and 1On the Judgment of God. 2 Against the Pelagians 1: 33. 7 good heart” (Luke 8: 15). About that, St. John says: “By this we... shall assure our hearts before Him; For if our heart condemns us, God is greater than our heart, and knows all things. Beloved, if our heart does not condemn us, we have confidence toward God” (1 John 3: 19-21); And the lord Himself says: “For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies. These are the things which defile a man, but to eat with unwashed hands does not defile a man” (Matthew 15: 19-20). Father Hesychius of Jerusalem If ‘Job’ so did concerning the hidden sins of his children; how much more he must have done concerning their apparent ones1?! ‘Job’, knowing that feasts are rarely without trespasses, he was keen on cleansing those unintentionally done by his children through offering sacrifices on their behalf2. St. John Chrysostom Although ‘Job’ knew for sure that his children would behave in the spirit of unity and harmony; yet, he did not slothfully consider himself as not responsible for what might go on secretly in their minds and hearts; But, in love and wisdom, he resorted to God, who knows the hidden secrets, through offering spiritual sacrifices and burnt offerings for each of them, to sanctify their depths. “Thus ‘Job’ did regularly” (5). He did not stop offering a perpetual sacrifice; the way our Savior does; whose mere incarnation before the Father, is an incessant offering for our sake; Who by revealing Himself as man, He presents by the secret of His humanity, a perpetual sacrifice, to cleanse the defilement of man. Vain would be the goodness we practice, if we stop it before the end of our life; the way it is for him who runs a race, if he stops before reaching the end of the course. ‘Woe to you, who lost patience’ (Sirach 2: 14); and “You are those who have continued with Me in my trials” (Luke 22: 28)… By ordaining that the tail of the sacrifice should be offered on the altar, Moses intends to demonstrate that every good deed we start, we should persistently complete until the very end. Pope Gregory the Great The wise Solomon says “Hear, my son to a father’s instruction, and pay attention and gain understanding. I give you sound learning, so do not forsake my teaching, When I was a boy in my father’s house, still tender and an only child of my mother… (Proverbs 4: 1-3). A righteous father raises his children properly by being to them himself a good role model, so as not to get embarrassed one day to hear the words: “You, who teach another, do you not teach yourself?” (Romans 2: 21); But he would instead, as a faithful servant, who could save both himself and the others, be worthy to hear the words of the Lord: “Well done, good and faithful servant, you 1 The Gospel of St. Matthew homily 42:3. 2 The Gospel of St. Matthew homily 86:4. 8 were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things; Enter into the joy of your Lord” (Matthew 25: 21)1. St. Athanasius the apostolic 3- THE COMPLAINT OF SATAN: “Now there was a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the Lord, and Satan also came among them” (Job 1: 6) In the ‘Targum Yerushalmi’, it came that two sessions of meeting took place in heaven: one on ‘Rosh ha-Shanah’, and the other on ‘Yom Kippur’. In those two sessions, the angels – the sons of God – came before God, to present to Him the befitting praise for His love toward the heavenly and the earthly creatures; to present to Him as well the prayers of the believers, and to anticipate any further assignment to consummate; being “ministering spirits sent forth to minister for those who will inherit salvation” (Hebrew 1: 14). Among them, came the arrogant and deceitful Satan, to complain against mankind, especially the believers.As he, in his envy, could not stand to see an earthly man growing in Spirit, and setting forth as though with the wings of a dove to heaven. As all things are revealed before God, He is in no need of angels to carry to Him the prayers of believers; nor to Satan to reveal the corruption of a believer. But God, in His love for the heavenly creatures, grants them the work of love, to present the prayers, and to consummate the missions; and He, as well, in His Justice, gives Satan the freedom to complain against whomever he wants. He sanctifies the freedom of will in the reasonable creatures, on the level of the heavenly hosts, on the spiritually evil hosts, and on humans. We should not marvel to hear this; as in the vision of the prophet Zechariah, he saw the Word of God Himself, as a High Priest, carrying our sins as a filthy garment; and Satan at His right hand to accuse Him (Zechariah 3: 1-2). St. John Chrysostom asks us not to marvel that the rebel stands among the angels; As the book presents to us a human portrait that helps us to understand it with our human mind. According to the text, the angels came, and Satan also came among them; from going to and fro on the earth, and from walking back and forth under heaven. From this we should understand that the earth is full of angels and devils; that all of them are under the authority of God; that the angels stand anticipating His instructions; And, by saying, “Satan also came among them”,(6) that Satan cannot do anything unless he is allowed by God. As both the good and the evil humans are mixed together on earth; So are the angels and the demons. St. John Chrysostom The most exalted thing longed for by man, is to join the heavenly forces, and stand among them, to enjoy the heavenly glory, and see God. So, how could Satan stand to see God and to enter into a debate with Him? Standing here should not be taken literally; God allowed him to debate for the sake of divine justice, and to confirm the freedom of the reasonable creation, even of Satan and his evil hosts. Although Satan was allowed to stand among the angels, and to debate with God, Yet he was not allowed to enjoy beholding the glory of God; the splendor of the 1 Paschal Letters, 2. 9 divine glory did not shine on him; and he did not experience hearing the sweetness of God’s voice, the source of pleasure, joy, and true peace! In the great day of the Lord, the true believers see in the eyes of Jesus Christ, a meek dove; and feel in His bosom, un-expressible glories; Whereas the wicked see in them flames of fire, they cannot bear to behold. As it is said here, that Satan stood before the lord without enjoying beholding the splendor of His glory; It is said somewhere else, that the angels are “ministering spirits sent forth to minister for those who will inherit salvation” (Hebrew 1: 14). Yet, sending them forth does not deny them the enjoyment of the divine presence, and the shining of the divine light on them. Some may wonder, how could Satan, who fell from his rank because of his pride, stand before the Lord among the angels? Could he behold the Lord while impure? It is true that Satan and his hosts have fallen, and have lost the right to behold God; Yet, because of his nature as a spirit, he could stand before God to complain against us, but without beholding Him, because of his impurity. Notice that it is said, ‘he came before the Lord’, and not that ‘he saw the Lord’; he came to be seen, and not to see; He was before the eyes of the Lord, and the Lord was not before his eyes; The same way, when a blind man stands before the sun; Although he is wholly bathed in its warmth, yet he is not able to see its splendid rays. Even things that flee from God’s face are not hidden from His eyes; everything is bare before Him, including Satan. Who are those who are called the “sons of God”, but the elect angels who behold His glory? We should ask ourselves: From where did they come to stand before God? They are said to “always see the face of the Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 18: 10); and “A thousand thousands minister to Him; Ten thousand times ten thousand stand before Him” (Daniel 7: 10); namely, they never separate from His presence. But St. Paul said about them:" are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?" (Heb1: 14), They learn from this Addressees and discover where they come from ... We should understand that they do not go forth in a way that deny them seeing God, and the joy of contemplating in their Creator; Because if they are, they would not be able to raise the fallen; to proclaim the truth to those in ignorance; nor to present to the blind what they were denied through forsaking the source of light. The nature of the angels differ from our present human nature; We are limited by place, and by the blindness of ignorance; Whereas the angels, being spirits, although also limited by place; but their knowledge are far above our knowledge, and we could not be compared to them. They have an extended knowledge, inside and outside; contemplating in the source of knowledge Himself. And being spirits, while we are bodies; Yet if compared to the exalted and un incomprehensible Spirit, they are counted as mere bodies. That is why, although they are sent forth by Him, yet, they still stand before Him, and never separate from Him. Therefore, although they perpetually see the face of the Father; yet they come to us through our inner contemplation. It could then be said that “The sons of God came to present themselves before the Lord”, having never been separated from Him in the first place! Pope Gregory the Great 10 “And the Lord said to Satan, ‘From where do you come?’. So Satan answered the Lord and said,‘From going to and fro on the earth, and from walking back and forth on it’” (Job 1: 7) By saying, “From going to and fro on the earth”, he refers to the fact that he did not surpass his limits; as “The great dragon have been cast to the earth” (Revelation 12: 9). Many fathers of the early church believe that, because the earth in the Holy Book refers to the earthly carnal man, who is only preoccupied with earthly things, Satan, therefore was going to and fro as though in his own domain. And because heaven, on the other hand, refers to the spiritual man, who is preoccupied with eternal things. Satan cannot infiltrate into his heart, but can go to and fro in that of the carnal man. The devil knows no slothfulness; He does not stop day or night going to and fro on earth to seduce the children of God to forsake the kingdom of light, and to get preoccupied with sins. “From going to and fro on the earth” (7). Now, if you say, Well, heaven is out of bounds to the evil devil; but the world welcomes him.; that would be for your own benefit; and you would be slothful, If you do not care to reform yourselves, being confronted with such an alert enemy. Listening to Paul saying: “… whom I delivered to Satan, that they may learn not to blaspheme” (1 Timothy 1: 20). Shows that although Paul seem to use even the devils in his work; yet the good results he gets are not the work of Satan, but of God's love for man, who uses even Satan for His purposes. God said to Satan, “From where do you come?”, to condemn his ways, as though they are unknown to Him, the divine Judge! The same way He said to Adam in his sin: “Where are you?” (Genesis 3: 9); as though He did not know where his rebellious servant was hiding! But the one fallen, is seen as hidden from the eyes of the Truth under sin. Condemning Satan, He enquires about where he is; The ways of the elect angels, on the other hand, representing God's will; and under His authority, are known to Him, and they do not need to be asked where they are. Satan goes to and fro on the earth; having despised the dwelling in peace in the high heaven. Saying that he walked, and not flew, refers to the burden of sin that pulls him always downward. God talks to the angels to proclaim His will to them; whereas the angels talk to God when they contemplate in what is above their comprehension. God talks to the souls of His saints in a way, while they talk to Him in another way... We hear them in the book of Revelation: “Crying out in a loud voice, saying, ‘how long, O Lord, holy and true, until You judge and avenge our blood on those who dwell on the earth?’… It was said to them that they should rest a little while longer” (Revelation 6: 9-10). God, on the other hand, talks to Satan in four ways: He condemns his oppressive ways; He rebukes him by the righteousness of His saints; He allows him to tempt their innocence; but sometimes restrains him from tempting them any further. He rebukes him by the righteousness of His saints; saying: “Have you considered My servant 'Job' that there is none like him on the earth, a blameless and upright man, one who fears God and shuns evil” . He allowed him to test his righteousness, when he said to him: “Behold, all what he has is in your power’; But he restrained him by saying: “Only do not lay a hand on his soul” (Job 1: 12). 11 Pope Gregory, the Great “Then the Lord said to Satan: ‘Have you considered My servant Job. That is none like him on the earth, a blameless and upright man, one who fears God and shuns evil?” (Job 1: 8) God’s talk with Satan reveals how much He is proud of ‘Job’. Through a mutual relationship of love between God and the true believer; 'Job' on his part says: “‘Who is like You, O Lord, among the gods? Who is like You, majestic in holiness, awesome in splendor, doing wonders?” (Exodus 15: 11); “Who is a God like Ypu, pardoning iniquity, and passing over the transgression of the remnant of His heritage?” (Micah 7: 18). God likewise, says how much He is proud of the faith of other believers, like the centurion, and the Canaanite woman; who, strangely enough, are all Gentiles! Perseverance was an attribute of ‘job’, known and testified by God; and became known to men through the experience of temptation. The fruit that was once hidden inside, has been revealed and became apparent because of it1. St. Augustine Satan intended to enter into a controversy, not with ‘Job’, but rather with God Himself; using ‘Job’ as an issue. The fire of envy flared in the tempter's mind, because of God’s commendation of 'Job'! Because God knows for sure that ‘Job’ would be consistent on his uprightness, He delivered him to be tempted by Satan, yet not to destroy him… When our old enemy fails to find any evil works by which to accuse us, he concentrates on our good points, to transform them into evil: he searches among our words to find something to accuse us with; he struggles to turn the intentions of our hearts into darkness, so that, when our good deeds do not come from a good mind; they would not be seen as good in the sight of the divine Judge. In case he finds a good fruit on a green tree, he will search for a warm to corrupt the roots. Notice how foolish and deceitful Satan is ! Hearing God testifiy that ‘job’ is blameless; he intends to oppose God’s testimony! Hearing God say: “My servant Job”, which in itself is enough to reveal his virtue… Satan got mad, because he counted this as a rebuke against him! Have you not, O Satan, one day been also a servant of God?!... That is what St. Paul meant when he said: “Do you know that we shall judge angels? How much more, things that pertain to this life?” (1Corinthians 6: 3) ‘Job’ has reached such a stage; that made God add: “A blameless and upright man, who fears God and shuns evil”. But you, O Satan, on the contrary, are not that way at all! St. John Chrysostom "Hast thou considered my servant Job?"(8) At the same time, it is mean precisely that the traitor (evil) a malicious intent to those sinners who have well thought of their vices and a response his deceit. Father Hesychius of Jerusalem .“So Satan answered the lord and said; ‘Does Job fear God for nothing?’” (Job 1: 9) 1On the Good of Marriage, N. & P-N Frs, vol 3, p. 409. 12 Satan could not hear a word of commendation directed to someone else, even if it comes from God who searches the minds and the hearts; the same way, king Saul felt, when he heard the women of Jerusalem commend young David, who saved him, his army, and his whole people, from the mighty Juliat (1 Samuel 18: 6-9); And when the high priests heard the little children praise the Lord Christ in the temple (Matthew 21; 15); etc. Satan is called the ‘Oppressor’, because of his false accusations against man before God, saying: “Does Job fear God for nothing?”…; the same way he does against God before man, saying: “The fire of God fell from heaven and burned up the sheep” (Job 1: 16); with the intention to convince Job that the tribulation has come from God in heaven. Both ways, his intention was to raise animosity between the servant and his Master; but he failed1! St. John Chrysostom “He will bring justice to the poor of the people; He will save the children of the needy; and will break in pieces the oppressor” (Psalm 72: 4). Satan is rightly called the ‘Oppressor’; when he claimed that God, motivated by envy, ordered Adam and Eve not to eat from the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil (Genesis 2); And when he said against ‘Job’: “Does Job fear God for nothing?…Stretch out Your hand and touch all that he has, and he will surely curse you to your face” (Job 1: 8, 11). Here, he is called an ‘oppressor’, while in psalm 8, he is called, “the enemy and the avenger”2 (Psalm 8: 2). Theodoret, Bishop of Coresh Satan, the accuser of the saints, because he does not dare in the presence of the divine Judge, to accuse them of a false charge; he resort to something true! He who envies us because of our presence in the kingdom of heaven, from where he was driven out, says: “Does Job fears God for nothing?” (Job 1: 8). It is befitting for us to love God, but not for the sake of a reward; For what kind of a reward would that be, compared to Himself?! Do not worship God in order to have something in return. God will give Himself to you to enjoy! If you love what he has created, How much more would you love the Creator Himself? If you take away from your heart the love for the created, and get attached to the Creator; then you can say together with the Psalmist: [I would rather be attached to my God (Psalm 72: 28)3]. Father Caesarius, Bishop of Arl Satan says: “Does Job fear God for nothing?” So, although he admits that 'Job' is indeed righteous, yet he claims that his righteousness is because of God’s abundant gifts on him: He has everything,... nothing to worry about,... nothing that makes him do wrong,... he has a nice house,... all his possessions are hedged with blessings,... his children around him are like a crown over his head,... Why then, could he not be upright?... He, who has not tasted poverty, Why should he steal?! Father Hecechius of Jerusalem Arrogantly, Satan entered into a controversy against God; seeking to twist the motivation of 'Job' (Job 1: 9). This is not the tendency of Satan alone, but that of all 1 Resisting the Temptation of the Devil, homily 2:2. 2 Commentary on Ps.72. 3 Sermons, 21: 5. 13 the wicked; like the servant who said to his master: “I knew you to be a hard man, reaping what you have not sown, and gathering where you have not scattered seed” (Matthew 25: 24). Yet God always tend to condemn His enemies through their own words, so as not to leave them a chance to find an excuse; according to the words of the Lord: “Out of your own mouth I will judge you, you wicked servant” (Luke 19: 22)... St. John Chrysostom “Have You not made a hedge around him, around his household, and around all that he has on every side? You have blessed the work of his hands, and his possessions have increased in the land” (Job 1: 10) Here, Satan is blaming God! Yes, God made a hedge around him and around his household, granted him success and wealth, and blessed the work of his hands; But all that was not out of partiality; as ‘Job’ was never slothful or lazy. Satan's talk reveals that he tried in vain to find a gap, through which to enter into ‘Job’s heart or mind, to draw him to his kingdom. “Because you have made the lord your refuge, the Most High your dwelling place” (Psalm 91: 9). If you experience the hope in the Lord, and make Him your refuge, “No evil shall befall you, no scourge come near your tent” (Psalm 91: 10). You will hold fast before the spears of Satan; they will never do you harm; the way the divine care made a hedge around Job’s household. When the Lord allowed for Job's temptation, Satan's evil was revealed, and the just Judge crowned the victorious warrior1. Theodoret, Bishop of Coresh “Have you not made a hedge around him?” Do you notice that even Satan knows for sure that all the security enjoyed by ‘Job’ is a gift from the Lord, and not the fruit of oppression on Job's part? “But now, stretch out your hand and touch all that he has, and he will surely curse you to your face” (Job 1: 11). He must have wished to get that authority from God, but could not dare to utter such a request! What is God’s work, if it is not to do good to all mankind? Both by chastisement and by reward? I wish therefore, that we thank God, not only when we are in prosperity – as this is not a big deal; and is what Satan expects, when he says: “Have You not made a hedge around him, around his household, and around all that he has on every side” (Job 1: 10)2. St. John Chrysostom The blessed David, knowing that when the Lord occasionally forsakes us, it would be for our own good, prayed to Him, saying: “Do not forsake me utterly” (Psalm 119: 8). Namely, [Knowing that You sometimes forsake your saints in order to test them;... I ask you, to forsake me, as it is good for me to be aware of my weakness; “It is good for me to be afflicted”; and to have the occasional chance to fight; which would not be possible as long as I am under the perpetual protection of God. Satan would never then dare to fight me, but would just complain against me and against You, saying: “Does Job fear God for nothing? Have you not made a hedge around him, around his household, and around everything he has?...Yes, I ask 1 Commentary on Ps. 91. 2Homilies on Ephesians, Homily 19. 14 You to forsake me, But “not utterly” (The Greek words: 'Not much'); in order to test the steadfastness of my love1. Father Daniel [Your words strike me hard in my chest; and make a hedge around me on every side2]. St. Augustine “But now, stretch Your hand and touch all that he has, and he will surely curse You to Your face” (Job 1: 11) In a talk by Theodoret, Bishop of Coresh, about the divine care, he raised the controversy by some people like Philon of Alexandria, and the Apucrites, saying: Why do most rich people live such an oppressive life? Why do not they seek justice? To which Theodoret answers: [You are again forgetting that man has got a free will. and you are depriving him of the glory given to him by his Creator! This is beside the fact that, in case God gives His goods only to the righteous in this life; the wicked would then find a foundation to defend themselves to by saying what their master said about Job: “You made a hedge around them, around their households, and around everything they have; But now, stretch Your hand and touch what they have, they will curse You to Your face”3] St. Augustine believes that the true believer like ‘job’ is like a stretched horn; and that the temptations are like striking with a hammer. Blowing the horn produces nice voices of praise; And the hammer that strikes the non-believer, would reveal the peace and the rejoice of the believer, to justify him before the Lord4. If it is in the authority of Satan, would he not avenge himself?. When he intended to tempt ‘Job’, he asked God's permission to do so, and would never had this authority otherwise! Why then, do not you worship God without fear? without whose permission, no one can harm you; and with which, you are chastened, for your own good, but never defeated? 5. Satan could envy the righteous ‘Job’. But could he harm, even one hair, or a finger nail out of him? He could accuse him. But could he condemn him? Could he take anything away from him; without saying to God:"Stretch out Your hand"; ... without asking for the authority that was given to him? The one who was tempted conquered his tempter. God who allowed Satan to tempt ‘Job’, has never forsaken his servant, but used him as a sword to overcome Satan. The ultimate result was for the benefit of all mankind: Man, who was defeated in paradise, became victorious here on a heap of trash; In paradise he was defeated by Satan and a woman; And here, he defeated them both6! St. Augustine Satan prepares the temptation; If he finds man weak, he attacks him; But if he finds him strong, he does not7! 1 Cassian: conferences 4:6:2. 2 Confessions, 8:1:1. 3On Divine Providence, Discourse 6: 36. 4On Ps. 98. 5On Ps. 97. (96). 6On Ps. 34, Discourse, 1: 7. 7Homilies on Thessalonians, homily. 4. 15 St. John Chrysostom Some falsely claim that the faithful ‘Job’ was supported by the divine help in his wrestling with Satan in that unique battle! But we think otherwise. If ‘job’ has conquered Satan, not by his own perseverance and resilience, but by the protection of God’ grace; that would justify Satan’s claim, saying to God: “Does Job fear God for nothing? Have You not made a hedge around him, around his household, and around all that he has on every side? You have blessed the work of his hands, and his possessions have increased in the land. But now, stretch your hand and touch all that he has, and he will surely curse You to Your face” (Job 1: 9-11). But the fact that ‘Job’ has defeated Satan on his own, and not by the divine power, has deprived Satan of that weapon. It is not that God’s grace has forsaken ‘Job’1, but has given Satan the authority to tempt ‘Job’ within the limits of his capacity to bear it; The divine grace did not protect 'Job' in a way that would deprive him of the honor of his virtue and strife! But protected him through not allowing his very fierce enemy to take away his mental power, to drown his mind with thoughts more than he could bear; or to use against him such ways or weapons that are beyond his power to resist2. Father Sherimon The divine care mostly allows for the believer to go through afflictions; in order to reveal to others the greatness of virtue hidden in him; as was the case with the righteous ‘Job’3. St. John of Damascus “So the Lord said to Satan: ‘Behold, all that he has is in your power; only do not lay a hand on his person’. Then Satan went out from the presence of the Lord” (Job 1: 12) God allowed Satan to tempt ‘Job’ the way He allowed him to sift the apostle Peter as wheat; but was keen that his faith should not fail (Luke 22: 31, 32); As temptations are meant to give those who manage to go successfully through them, praise, honor, and glory (1 Peter 1: 7). The allowance by God to Satan, gives the believer some peace of mind, and the assurance that Satan would not dare to touch a believer, not even his possessions, without the permission of God. But the mighty, the loving, and the wise God, gives allowance within the limits He knows that we can bear; and for the sake of our glory, in case we are faithful. It was said that “Satan went out of the presence of the Lord” ; the same thing that was said about Cain (Genesis 4: 16). Evil cannot bear the presence before God; whereas the children of God would never go away from the presence before the Lord; They remain in His presence even while sleeping. Pope Gregory the Great discerns between the will of Satan and his authority. The first is always evil, whereas his authority, allowed by God, would never imply oppression, as it is allowed by God for the sake of our justification and edification. That is why we do not marvel to read in (1 Samuel 18: 10) that “a distressing spirit غیر أنه یظهر من المقال في مجمله أنه لا یقصد Semi – pelagianism 1هذا النص من ضمن النصوص التي جعلت البعض یتهمونه بال تجاهل نعمة اللّه وقوته. لكن خاف البعض لئلا یقتطف البیلاجیون بعض عبا ا رته منفردة عن المقال ویعتمدون علیها في تأكید اتكالهم على أعمال الإنسان فقط.. 2 Cassian: conferences 13:14:1. 3 Exposition of the Orthodox Faith, 29. 16 from God came upon Saul”. Saying: “from God”, means by divine permission. According to the apostle St. Paul: “No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; But God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able” (1 Corinthians 10: 13); And according to the Psalmist: “Examine me, O Lord, and prove me” (Psalm 26:2) St. Augustine believes that God allows Satan to bring afflictions on his children, either to chasten them, like what He did when he delivered his people to be captivated by their enemies; or to test them to be justified, like when He allowed for the temptation of ‘Job’; or to let them be crowned with victory like what happened with the martyrs1. Satan’s attack against ‘Job’, resulted in giving him double the glory following his conquest. Getting double as much as he lost in the present world, is a sure indication that he will be treated the same way in the heavenly places; according to the words of the apostle: “If anyone competes in athletics, he is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules” (2 timothy 2: 5). How could there be strife, if there is no opponent? How could the greatness and splendor of daylight be evident, unless compared with the darkness of the night? How could some be commended for their purity; unless others are condemned for their impurity. The strong are glorified, when compared with the cowards. Sweetness is more enjoyed, after tasting what is bitter2. The scholar Origen In the book of ‘job’ we read how Satan himself, who may seem as though he has all authority for sometime, can do nothing unless allowed by God. He may have got authority over lowly things, but has lost authority over what are greater and more exalted. His authority is not as though he can issue punishment; Because punishment has actually dwelt on him3. God allowed the tempter, not to know what He actually knows (about ‘Job’); but to let us know and follow his lead. He delivered him to the tempter who took everything away from him, including his possessions, his household, and his children; Yet ‘Job’ remained filled with God4. The tempter was allowed to tempt the righteous ‘Job’. He took away from him everything he has; both the inheritance, and the heirs; not gradually, but all at once by one stroke... Job ight have stayed alone; But in him remained the vows of praise, he kept saying to the Lord5. Like what happened, when God responded to the request of his people, and gave them a king according to their heart – and not according to His – He also did when He granted Satan his request to temp His servant ‘Job’, to justify him6. St. Augustine 1On Ps. 29, Discourse, 2,6. 2On Genesis, homily 1. 3On Ps. 26 Second Discourse,1. 4On Ps 55 (56). 5On Ps. 56 (55) 6 Letters, 130:14:26. 17 Do you see the limitation put on the temptation? Do you notice that Satan could not even dare to touch the flock, without being allowed by God? St. John Chrysostom Satan the tempter is allowed to make war against the saints with every kind of temptation, in order to justify their love of God; which would be a witness to their benefit, when they become deprived of everything, and in need of all sensed things; they abide in their true love for God; The more Satan tries to seduce them, the more they stay unconquered, and their love for God remain unchanged. The way Satan asked God’s permission to tempt ‘Job’, he is still adamant on his desire to tempt everyone of us. And once he gets the permission from God, he hastens to practice his evil desire, according to the strength of his victim. Those who are upright and steadfast in their love of God, would become justified when they see everything they may lose, as nothing, compared to their love of God1. Mar Isaac the Syrian Authority over us is given in one of two ways: either as punishment if we err; or as glory when we are justified; like what we saw in the case of ‘Job’2. Cyprian, the martyr “All that he has is in your power; only do not lay a hand on his person” (Job 1: 12), may have another meaning. God knew that His warrior is brave;... that victory is sure under all circumstances for that persistent fighter;... that the enemy will return defeated after the battle, to prepare himself for another one, to be defeated again;... and that He who faithfully follow Him will become un-comparably victorious on the defeated enemy, who is always ready for new wars. Pope Gregory the Great What is written about ‘Job’ is not without meaning. According to the Scripture, Satan sought God’s permission to tempt him; as he can do nothing without a permission from God. Satan said to God: “Deliver him to my hand; he will surely curse You to Your face”. ‘Job’ is still the same; So is God; and so is Satan. Man having comfort by grace; Grace may withdraw a little bit, to let him be delivered to Satan, who would come with thousands of evils as temptations; like despair, apostasy, evil thoughts,... etc. to torture his soul, weaken it, and to separate it from hope in the Lord3. St. Maccari the Great “Lead us not into temptations” This prayer does not mean not to be tempted, but not to be led into temptations. Every man committed to be tested by fire, should pray, not that fire would not touch him, but that it would not destroy him. As a vase of porcelain is tested by the oven, main is tested by ‘a trail of tribulation’ (Wisdom of Joshua 27; 6). Joseph was tested by the seduction of adultery; but was not led into its temptation (Genesis 39; 7-12) Susanna was likewise tempted, but was not led into temptation (Daniel 19: 22). 1 Ascetical Homilies, homily 39. 2 Treatises, 4:26. 3 Sermon 26:7. 18 Many believers of both sexes were so tempted, but not led into temptations. But ‘Job’ was the greatest, for he admirably abided in the Lord his God1. St. Augustine Demons have no authority, nor power, to practice against anyone, unless allowed by God; as it happened against ‘Job’; and against the herd of swine, mentioned in (Mark 5: 13)2. Father John of Damascus The evil spirits have no authority to harm anyone unless allowed by God; as is evident in the episode of ‘Job’; and as so confessed by by them in the gospel, when they begged the Lord Jesus, saying: “If you cast us out, permit us to go away into the herd of swine” (Matthew 8: 31). Thus, if they have no authority to enter into the unclean animals, without the permission of God, how much more would it be for entering into man, who is created according to the image of God?!3. Father Cerinus 4- SUCCESSIVE TRIBULATIONS: “Now there was a day when his sons and daughters were eating and drinking wine in their oldest brother’s house” (Job 1; 13). We should notice the timing, chosen by Satan to bring about the temptation; when Job’s children were preoccupied with having fun in a feast (Job 1: 13). He not only thought about what to do, but when to do it! Although he already had the divine permission, yet he chose the right time to act. And it was God’s intention to have it so mentioned for our own benefit, that enjoying fun is a preparation for the dwelling of tribulations. Pope Gregory the Great “And a messenger came to ‘Job’ and said, ‘The oxen were plowing and the donkeys feeding beside them’” (Job 1: 14). In the Septuagint version it came as: “the donkeys with their young”. Craftily, the enemy intended to make the tribulations much more bitter; by letting them happen successively and swiftly. “when the Sebeans raided them and took them away – indeed they have killed the servants with the edge of the sword; and I alone have escaped to tell you” (Job 1: 15). Having got the permission, Satan found those who could help him fulfill the evil plan of their wicked father. And as the Lord Christ says: “You are of your father the devil; and the desires of your father you want to do” (John 8; 44); “he is the spirit who now works in the sons of disobedience” (Ephesians 2: 2) Do you notice the swiftness of the stroke? In one instant, ‘Job’ was deprived of all his possessions: his flocks were taken away; and his servants were slain with the edge of the sword! St. John Chrysostom Yet St. Ambrose confirms that many things that look evil and bad, may turn out to be for the growth of our virtues; as it happened with ‘Job’ in his several temptations. 1 Sermon on the Mount, 2:10:32. 2 Exposition of the Orthodox Faith, 4. 3 Cassian: Conference 7:22:1. 19 Wouldn’t ‘Job’ be less blessed, if he has not passed through those things by which he was justified?!1. St. Ambrose “While he was still speaking, another came and said, ‘The fire of God came from heaven and burned up the sheep and the servants, and consumed them,; and I alone have escaped to tell you” (Job 1: 16) Tribulations came swiftly, like incessant successive waves “Deep calls unto deep” (Psalm 42: 7), with Satan’s evil intention to deprive ‘Job’ of any chance to think soundly; and to let him be convinced that God’s wrath has dwelt upon him, and would never cease. It was amazing that all the messengers confirmed that the “oxen were plowing and the donkeys were feeding”; namely, that even the beasts were doing their duties. No blame then would be put upon the children, the servants, or the beasts; but all the blame was to be put upon God alone! Satan’s plot was intended to strike ‘Job’s heart, and to direct all his thoughts and feelings to blaspheme against God. While writing this commentary, a young man suddenly died; and his close friend started to blaspheme against God, saying: ‘Why did God take away my dearest friend?’, Where is God?’, Where is His mercy and care?’, refusing to hear any word of comfort! It is as though the devil, in every generation, is doing his best to let men blaspheme against God. As the news came that the fire of God fell from heaven and consumed the servants by whom he would fight his enemies, Satan did not give ‘Job’ the chance to confront the ‘Sebeans’ to bring back his possessions;. Could he fight God? How could he reach Him?!... He has nothing left but to use his tongue to blaspheme God, as unjust and merciless! St. John Chrysostom believes that by saying, “The fire of God fell from heaven”, Satan intends to convince ‘Job’ that what dwel upon him are not human strikes but divine ones from God, directed against him alone; with the intention to distort the image of God in his eyes! Although he committed no major sins, and was not slothful in his worship to God, the unwarranted wrath of God would make him blaspheme Him as unjust. God consumed his sheep, the best of which he used to chose to present as burnt offerings; as though He is not pleased with his sacrifices, and does not accept his worship;... or “It is vain to serve God” !( Mal 3 : 14) Because it is not heard that fire fell from heaven since the burning of Sodom and Gomorrah, ‘Job’ said; “Destruction from the Lord is a terror to me” (Job 31: 23). Notice how saying “fire from God” is as though saying to ‘Job’: You are suffering the wrath of Him, whom you intends to please by your many sacrifices, and whom you preoccupy yourself with serving Him every day... Bringing back to his memory his past services, would let him feel that he is unjustly treated by God. When a pious man finds himself carrying crosses on the hand of man, he would seek the divine comfort, and protection in the haven of his conscience; But the crafty adversary, in order to destroy the heart of that brave saint, made him face, at the same instant, strikes from man, and despair in God. He brought to him the news of the attacks by the Sebeans, and of the fire from God that fell from heaven; in order to close completely any door for comfort. 1Duties of the Clergy, 2:5:20. 20 Pope Gregory the Great “While he was still speaking, another also came and said, ‘The Chaldeans formed three bands, raided the camels and took them away, yes, and killed the servants with the edge of the sword; and I alone have escaped to tell you” (Job 1: 17) By that, Satan intends to confuse Job’s mind; If it is only a fire from God; ‘Job’ would probably assume that it is a divine chastisement for something wrong he might have done; But to confront human attacks at the same time; That is what he cannot interpret or justify! By that third strike by the Chaldeans, when he has lost every power to resist, ‘Job’ cried out in his heart, saying, ‘Why does God let the wicked have their ways?’ “While he was still speaking, another also came and said, ‘Your sons and daughters were eating and drinking wine in their oldest brother’s house, and suddenly a great wind came from across the wilderness and struck the four corners of the house, and it fell on the young men, and they were dead; and I alone escaped to tell you” (Job 1: 18, 19) To fill the cup of his bitterness, Satan let ‘Job’ get the horrible news that nature itself came against him; a great wind struck the house and killed all his sons and daughters, in a way that he could not even get their horribly mutilated corpses from under the ruins! ‘Job’ was greatly confused; How could heaven and earth; God, man, and nature, all come against him? Why? What has he done to deserve falling under all those successive catastrophes from various sources?! The enemy kept that most bitter of all the strokes till the end, to aim at ‘Job’s heart the fatal arrow; that all his sons and daughters perished in an instant under the ruins. When the infant son of David fell sick, he couldn’t bear the bitterness, but kept going to and fro screaming in agony; How could it be with ‘Job’ who all of a sudden lost all his children?! ‘Job’ was in need of his children to comfort him for the losses he had; But their death, and the way they died, made him forget all his previous losses, to fall into an unbearable bitterness. St. John Chrysostom saying as far as the previous catastrophes are concerned, there might be some justification in the words of the messenger: “and I alone escaped to tell you!”; But in that last one, for a servant to escape alone when all the children died under the ruins of the fallen house, in which he also lives, is something that defies logic! St. John Chrysostom believes that the messenger could not be anyone but, but Satan himself! Did your child die? Do not say you lost him. He has fallen asleep; he has actually departed from a worse condition to a better one! Do not arouse the anger of God by your grief and protest; but you should rather draw His compassion; For if you bear your losst with dignity, comfort would be double for you as well as for the departed. If you thank God, He will lift up from you the cloud of sadness; and you will say together with ‘Job’: “The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; Blessed be the name of the Lord” (Job 1: 21)1. St. John Chrysostom 5- ‘JOB’ THE THANKFUL: 1Homilies on 1 Corinthians, homily 41:9. 21 “Then ‘Job’ arose and tore his robe and shaved his head, and he fell to the ground and worshipped” (Job 1: 20) To act otherwise, 'Job' would be counted as someone senseless and un-natural; who did not feel the loss of his children and servants. But by such behavior, he reveals the bitterness of his soul, in a decent and a befitting way, taking into consideration the horrible experience he faced. That is beside the fact that such were the custom at that time. His actions do not mean that he lost his inner peace, courage, perseverance or longsuffering. Some scholars believe that tearing the robe was a sign of rejecting blasphemy; the way the high priest did when he assumed that Lord Jesus has blasphemed against God. Falling to the ground and worshipping, is likewise a sign of honesty with himself; feeling that he is a sinner, and that his soul has fallen down to dust. Father Hesychius of Jerusalem believes that ‘Job’ has torn his robe and shaved his head, not only out of grief, but rather, to bare himself of everything he still has; namely, his robe and the hair on his head; to leave nothing more for the devil to tempt him with. And before the Lord, he humbly fell to the ground and worshipped. He “worshipped”, to show the traitor that, in vain, he speaks falsity about him before God. For there he is, the one expected, once he loses his possessions, to blaspheme (1: 11; 2: 5) and show denial, is here worshipping before to the Lord, and offering more thanksgiving than before. Some count it as an exalted level of the philosophy of steadfastness, that when they fall under harsh chastisement, they demonstrate cold and senseless reaction toward pain of strikes and scourges; While others exaggerate their reaction to them. The prophet says: “You have stricken them, but they have not grieved; you have consumed them, but they have refused to receive correction” (Jeremiah 5: 3); And in contradiction, the psalmist says: “They will not be steadfast in tribulation” (Psalm 140: 10 The Volgata); As they would be steadfast in tribulation, if they bear it with perseverance. It was the custom in the old days, for man to keep his natural appearance, by letting his hair grow, to cut it off in the time of grief. Having lost everything in his tribulation; that saintly man, realizing that Satan, his adversary, would have no authority to tempt him without allowance from God, did not say: ‘The Lord gave, and Satan has taken away’; As it would be a sad thing, if what the Creator gives is taken away by the enemy! But, He, who takes away is none other than He who has given; He took back what is His, and not what is ours. All what we use here in our present life comes from Him; So why should we grieve, when we give Him back what we have borrowed from Him, through His generosity? Pope Gregory the Great What a courage of ‘Job’, that surpasses all what we were told! What a humility! What a love for God! If the enemy thinks that ‘Job’ does not care for oxen, or give value to donkeys or camels; Or that his possessions are all of no importance to him; How did he assume that the horrible grief for the death of his sons and daughters would not bring him down to the ground? How could he bear, after being a father to so many children, to have no one to call him ‘father’? 22 How could he not say to God: ‘What grave sins have I committed, to be counted unworthy of embracing the bodies of my dead children; of giving them the honor to be buried in a grave; of getting the comfort of shedding tears for them; or of leading a decent funeral procession for them, as is the custom of fathers?! Therefore, I wish you do not get furious when you lose possessions, get deprived of temporal honors, or be separated from children or fathers. Wish you do not get confused, when you lose any of these according to the law of nature! As long as you are not deprived of your true wealth; namely, of your ability to praise God, which makes you strong enough to challenge all events. Would a servant complain if asked to give back the talents left with him by his master? (Matthew 25: 19). Or if he takes a loan, would he be disturbed to give it back? Yes, when we give back what is not our own; I wish we would thank God, when He gives, as well as when He takes away. Father Hesychius of Jerusalem “Then ‘Job’ arose and tore his robe and shaved his head” (20). Do not think, O brethren, that this is a sign of defeat; for it is rather a sign of victory. He never showed a kind of shock; but he truly showed himself a wise and pious father. He was not grieved by the loss of his children and beasts, as much as for the way he lost them. Who would not collapse before such events? Who is the man of iron who would not be affected by them? The apostle Paul had such feelings, when he was confronted with the grief of his followers at his departure, and admirably said: “What do you mean by weeping and breaking my heart?” (Acts 21: 13). Here ‘Job’ also is worthy of admiration, because, before such devastating circumstances, he reacted with a most befitting way. The prophet Moses broke the two tablets of the law; and Joshua tore his clothes (Exodus 32: 15-20; Joshua 7: 6). If ‘Job’ did not tear his robe, it would be said that God created him with unnatural sensation; but he received the same sufferings that normally dwell on the righteous, to let you realize that he was committed to be wise even in his grief. So as not to think that tearing his robe implied blasphemy, or that he was in a state of anger because of the painful events “He fell to the ground and worshipped” (20). Listen to what he said: “…Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked shall I return there” (21). Notice how, by doing that, he proclaimed the words of the apostle: “We brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out” (1 Timothy 6: 7). Notice how his words which he uttered, served, not just him, but us as well. These possessions, after all, Are they mine? Have I created them?! This wealth; Is it not just a deposit? Was it with me when I came to the world, and will it be when I depart from it?! That is why God created us naked from the beginning; And that is why He made us prone to death. St. John Chrysostom When ‘Job’s children died, all he could do was to show his natural fatherly emotions, by tearing his robe, falling to the ground, and worshipping, saying: 23 “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked shall I return there. The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; Blessed be the name of the Lord” (20) 1. St. Jerome “He said: Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked shall I return there. The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; Blessed be the name of the Lord” (Job 1: 21) The Holy Book did not mention any praise uttered by Adam or Eve, when they were in paradise enjoying all those exalted gifts and blessings. But it did mention this short praise uttered by ‘Job’, that surpasses many others; a praise that brings pleasure to the heart of God, and the hearts of the heavenly creatures; a praise that will remain engraved, as though on a rock, for the generations to sing, and for mankind to find by it divine comfort along the generations. We would not have enjoyed such life of inner joy in the psalms, if the prophet David has not been a man of suffering; And we would not have sung the praise of the three saintly young men, if they were not cast in the fire. By saying what he said, ‘Job’ proclaims his return to his origin; according to the words of the wise Solomon: “The dust will return to the earth as it was” (Ecclesiastes 12: 7); and according to the Latin proverb: ‘No one can reach a condition of utter poverty, worse than that when he was born’. Job’s faithfulness was contrary to what claimed by Satan; Instead of blaspheming God, he blessed Him; confessing the divine care, whatever were the afflictions that dwelt upon him. He did not say: [The Lord gave, and the Sabeans and the Chaldeans have taken away]; Nor said: [The Lord gave me, and the Lord made me poor]; but said that He, who gave, has the right to take away. He lost nothing that is his own; for everything he had, including even his children, were God’s, His gifts! He blessed God who gave; and blessed Him who has taken away; If those gifts stayed with him for some time, It was out of God’s love; and because God, the wise, the loving, and the mighty, knows what is for our edification, and how much of it is enough for our benefit; That is why, even taking it away is surely for our own good. We should follow the example of the righteous 'Job'. When the messengers came to him, one after another, bringing the unbearably horrible news of the death of his children; he did not scream, and did not even sigh, but resorted to praying and thanksgiving2. ‘Job’ not only refrained from blaspheming, but he blessed; He did not only bore his great loss in dignity and silence, but he glorified God; not only then, but also for the future. If we practice such a spiritual wisdom (the perpetual thanksgiving), we shall never experience any evil; Even if we fall under limitless suffering; our benefit will surpass our loss; and the good, will prevail over the evil. By uttering such words like those uttered by ‘Job’, we would draw God's mercy toward us; He would protect us against the tyranny of Satan; The instant we utter such words, he would soon flee before us3! 1 Letters, 117 to Julian, 2. 2 Concerning the Status, 16:2. 3 Paralytic Let Down through the Roof, 8. 24 When ‘Job’ was surrounded by wealth, it was not apparent to many what kind of man he was. But once he tore his clothes, cast them away, and set forth to wrestle for the sake of piety, he astonished all those who saw him; Even the hosts of angels cried out, when they saw how steadfast his soul was; and commended him, having got the crown. Those who did not notice him when he was rich, and did so when he appeared naked on the stage of this world, have testified to him; not because he was deprived of everything, but because of the perseverance with which, in his struggle, he sustained his weaknesses1. “The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away” (21). Notice how he believed that it was the Lord who has taken away... What could be compared to that?! He did not, even for the sake of knowledge, ask: Why did God give me; and why did he take?!“ Blessed be the name of the Lord” (21). Notice how he enjoyed comfort. It is God who decides. You may ask why did He decide that way? As I did not ask why He made me rich; I do not want to know why He is making me poor. Has He given me because of worthiness on my part? Was it because of good things I did? It was His decision to give; And it is His decision now to take. It is a sign of piety, not to seek an account from Him; nor an explanation for what He does. It is a great thing to give Him thanks with great joy; Yet, doing that out of fear is something; and giving it while being grieved is something else. That is how ‘Job’ did when he thanked God... No one could claim that he was not sad and deeply moved by what happened to him; No one can deprive him of commendation on his righteousness. Satan would do us harm; not by taking away what we have, and making us penniless; but by succeeding to make us blaspheme God2. ‘Job’ was crowned, and became famous; not because he was not broken down by the limitless tribulations he suffered; and despite his wife’s opposition; But because he remained thankful to the Lord in all situations; Not only when he was rich, but when he became poor as well; Not only when he was healthy, but when his body was covered with painful boils from the sole of his foot to the crown of his head; Not only when those things happened to him gradually, but when a violent storm swept away his household as well as his person3. Satan intends, not just to take away our riches, because he knows well that all these are of little true value; but to commit us to utter blasphemy; As he did to the righteous ‘Job’, whom he strived, not just to make him poor, but to turn him into a blasphemer4. St. John Chrysostom Although he was counted as one of the richest people; But the temptation he went through proved that his only most precious possession was God5. St. Maccari the Great Praise God on the guitar, when you have an abundance of earthly possessions; And present to Him thanksgiving when you are in need, or has been deprived of 1 Concerning Statues, homily 1:18. 2 J. A. Crammer, ed. Catena in Epistolas Catholicass. Oxford 1840, 35. 3On Ps 111. 4Homilies on Hebrews, homily 20:8. 5 Sermon 5: 7. 25 what you had. Play joyfully on the guitar, because you were not deprived of the Giver, even if you are deprived of the gift He gave you. I repeat, Plat joyfully, and in complete confidence in your God; Play joyfully on the strings of your heart; Let your voice loudly sound, together with the righteous ‘Job’, saying: “The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away” 1. Let Him take what He has given; Let Him bare me of everything I have; But let me keep Him, Himself. What would I lose, if I acquire God? Or what would be the benefit if I have everything, but do not acquire God2? He could have said: The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; bcause what He took away, He can give again, andmuch more. He did not say just that; but he also said: [Let Him do what seem fit in his sight. What would pleases Him, will please me. I wish what would please the good God, does not grieve the submitting servant; What would please the physician, would not grieve the patient3. Where from have those jewels praising God come? Could his lips utter such jewels, unless there is a treasure hidden in his heart? 4. What an inner wealth that no thief can approach! God has given him Himself5. You may take what I have; but not what lie inside me. He will never become poor, he, who says: “The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; Let Him do what is fitting in His sight. Blessed be the name of the Lord” 6. All the riches of this world, is a wealth of oppression, whatever its source is. If we want the true riches, it would be different. When ‘Job’ became naked and lost everything, his heart was full of divine things, he poured praises, as the most precious jewels he could offer his God 7. Hearing this, direct your hearts toward God; and do not deceive yourselves! Whether you love this world or not, Learn to let it go before your eyes, before you go yourselves. What does it mean to let it go? Do not let your hearts attach to it! When you have something that you will eventually lose, whether while you are still living, or after death, Let it go, as it would never be with you forever. Prepare yourselves for God; Hold fast to Him, He, whom you cannot lose. If there is a chance to lose the temporal things; say: “The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away” 8. ‘Job’ worshipped God and loved Him for His own sake; and not because He gave him what he needs. When the fire of temptation approached him, it found him gold and not chaff; It cleansed him of impurities, and did not turn him into ashes9. If you happen to err, you may grieve for losing your inner treasure. You may have nothing in your house; but your heart may be more empty. In case your heart is full of goodness, full of your God; why don’t you say: “The Lord gave, and the Lord 1On Ps. 32, Discourse, 2: 5. 2On the Creed, 10. 3On the Creed, 10. 4On Ps. 30, Discourse, 4, 12. 5On Ps. 56 (55). 6 Sermons on N.T. lessons. 57:9. 7 Sermons on N.T. Lessons, 63:4. 8 Sermons on N.T. Lessons, 76:11. 9 Sermons on N.T. Lessons, 41:4. 26 has taken away; Blessed be the name of the Lord”. What would grieve God? Would they the strokes; He Himself was stricken! 1. What jewels of praise to glorify God, he has brought out of his inner treasures! That is his wealth! 2. What a sweet and brave voice! Who cannot wake up to such a voice? Who does not trust God, to walk to battle against Satan with no fear; to fight him, not with his own power, but with that of the One who justifies him3. St. Augustine How can I be qualified to be in the company of ‘Job’? When I cannot bear the regular tribulations with thanksgiving? 4. It is obvious that virtues come to be our possessions, when they are practically woven in our nature. They would never forsake us during our strife on this earth; unless we drive them away with our free will; through opening the door for iniquity to enter. They would evaluate those who have them among the rank of angels; and would shine forever in the sight of the Creator. But as far as wealth, authority, pleasure, and all such idiocies, are concerned; that grow daily because of our foolishness; they have not entered with us into this life, and will not go accompany us when we depart from it. The words of that righteous man: “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked shall I return there” (Job 1: 21), are truly sound and steadfast and apply for every man5. Among the old and contemporary personalities, every one is supposed to enjoy a certain success, having got a particular virtue: ‘Job’, got the perseverance, that hold fast in tribulations; Moses and David got meekness; Samuel got prophecy; Penehas got jealousy; Peter and Paul got zeal in preaching (Galatians 2: 7) ; and the sons of Zebedee got eloquency, to be called ‘sons of thunder’ (Mark 3: 17) 6. St. Gregory the Nezinzian It was like a scream he uttered, saying: [God intended for me, for a long time to be a 'father'; Then intended to take away this crown from me. I should not oppose him in what concern Him. What He sees fitting in His sight, let it be realized. He is the Creator of my children; And I am just a tool in His hand. Then why, should I, the servant, surrender to a useless grief, and a bitter complaint, against a decision, which I cannot alter? By such words, ‘Job’ cast his enemy to the ground7. St. Basil the Great Have you seen the arrows aimed by the traitor? Have you seen how the enemy got confused to see ‘Job’ unmoved by those events; how he listened to the evil talks falling upon him, as though they were addressed to someone else; like a rock unscathed by the waves striking it. Father Hesychius of Jerusalem 1On Ps. 38 (37). 2On Ps. 69 (68). 3On Ps. 98 (Latin 97). 4 The Long Rules, Preface. 5On Detachment. 6On the death of his Father, 24. 7On Detachment. 27 When man bears God’s ordinance with perseverance; and say when he loses something: “The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken...”; he would gain a crown, for his perseverance that pleases God, if he is righteous; and forgiveness, if he is a sinner1. A righteous man suffering from a material loss, is both rich although naked; just like ‘Job’, who lost everything given to him by God, but acquired God Himself who gave them to him2. Father Caesarius, Bishop of Arl Ending everything he said by blessing the Lord, 'Job' clothed the enemy with shame; Satan who has been originally created in blessing, before he rebelled against the Lord. Whereas that mortal man, by uttering a praise of glory, even while under chastisement... he aimed many arrows to the chest of his enemy, and inflicted him with wounds, more bitter than those he himself suffered. Through his tribulation, he might have lost the earthly things; while by his humble endurance, he got back double heavenly blessings. Pope Gregory the Great The Holy Book says: “We brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out” (1 Timothy 6: 7). Those who seek wealth, fell into several worthless lusts. The disciple who became a traitor, and perished for the sake of a little miserable price, is an obvious proof of this fact3. St. Cyril the Great We are our own masters; we can harm ourselves, or otherwise... Loosing all your treasures, although a truly sad thing to happen; yet, it is up to you to turn the situation, either into a loss or into a gain. You may say: How could it be a gain? If you so wish, it would be a great gain; And if you do not, your loss would be more severe than what is taken away from you. Like a clever artist, who wisely uses the raw material before him to produce something good; whereas the less clever, would corrupt the same material, and turns the work into a shameful loss. You would do like the first one, if you give God thanks; If you refrain from weeping bitterly; and If you utter the words of ‘Job’: “The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away...” 4. Who can bear to see his only child lying down a lifeless corpse? He would needs a soul as solid as steal. By doing without the natural sighing, and by uttering instead, the words of ‘Job’: “The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away”, such a man would stand together with Abraham himself, and with ‘Job’, and would be proclaimed as a conqueror. If he stops the women from wailing; If he scatters the mourning men, and leads them instead to praise the glory of God; he would gain limitless awards, would be admired by people, commended by angels, and crowned by God5. These are the words of a living soul, that achieves her befitting role6. 1 Sermons, 54: 4. 2 Sermons, 114: 6. 3 Commentary on Luke, homily 40. 4Homilies on Thessalonians, homily. 3. 5Homilies on 2 Corinthians, homily 1:6. 6Homilies on 2 Corinthians, homily 7:4. 28 Let us suppose that someone has lost a son, and another has lost all his possessions... Both can acquire fruition from these tribulations, even though they cannot change them; by enduring the situations with dignity; And instead of uttering words of blasphemy, they give thanks to the Lord. By such behavior, the evils they face against their will, would turn into good works through their own will1. St. John Chrysostom Because God is good; all what He does has to be good. Did he decide to let me lose my husband? Well, I shall mourn my loss; Yet, I shall submit to His decision. Did He choose to take away my only son? It is a painful strike; Yet it could be endured; Because He who takes is the One who gave. In case I lose my eye-sight, I shall be comforted by my friend’s reading to me. And if I become deaf; I shall be spared hearing the evil gossip, and my thoughts will concentrate on God alone2. St. Jerome “In all this Job did not sin nor charge God with wrong” (Job 1: 22) This is a living testimony presented to us by the Holy Spirit, about Job's good reaction at the time of affliction. He passed through the temptation with great success. St. John Chrysostom believes that the expression “nor charge God with wrong” implies that ‘Job’ did not charge God with oppression, counted what befell him as by mere chance, nor protested that he did nothing wrong to warrant such tribulations; of all these thoughts that normally come to some, when tempted, while they see others enjoy an abundance of temporal blessings. Satan consistently fought ‘Job’; Yet he could have no conquest over the warrior of God. He emptied his bag of arrows; but could not wound that brave fighter. He created mighty waves, but could not move the steadfast rock. He used all his tricks, but could not bring down the sturdy tower. He shook the tree, but could not destroy the fruit. He broke the branches, but could not harm the root. He managed to break through the wall, but could not carry the treasure away. Now I can say that Job's treasure was not gold or silver, but was that man’s faith which Satan intended to break down, by arousing unprecedented tribulations against him... Now you can see how God was glorified, and how Satan was disgraced3. Father Caesarius, Bishop of Arl Satan and his angels failed to conquer ‘Job’, who stood firm, and whose faith never faltered4. St. Augustine Notice how it is said that, while temptation brought 'Job' to a more exalted position; it brought David down to the ground. That is why, while the virtues of our predecessors would strengthen our hope; their falling down, on the other hand, 1 The Epistle to the Romans, homily 9. 2 Letter 39: 2. 3 Sermons, 131: 1. 4On Ps, 12.(v. 5). 29 would make us more cautious; And while, the former would lift us up to joy; the later would fill us with fear. “In all this Job did not sin nor charge God with wrong” (22). He did not utter any foolish word, and kept his tongue from transgression. Saying that he “did not sin”, implies that he did not even harbor any angry thought or an unspoken protest. Pope Gregory the Great Thank God, and praise Him, when He tests you by fire; Praise and do not blaspheme; the way that righteous man expressed himself1. That was the way ‘Job’ offered the sacrifice of praise, despite those horrible sorrows, beyond human endurance, that dwelt over him2. St. John Chrysostom 1On Ps 128. 2On Ps. 50. 30 AN INSPIRATION FROM THE BOOK OF ‘JOB’1 A PRAISE AMID AFFLICTION Grant me, by Your grace, O Lord, to enjoy spiritual riches. Let me be blameless in Your sight; You, who refer foolishness to Your angels. Count me as upright, by the work of Your Spirit in me. Nail Your fear in my heart; to live in piety. Shine Your light in me. To walk no more in the darkness of evil. Grant Your church to become like Job’s household. Let all her days be feasts and incessant spiritual banquets. Let her features show brotherly love, and accordance without dissension. Let her play the symphony of love that brings joy to the heavenly creatures. In the midst of my joy, let me never forget the sacrifice of Your cross. Let me pray for my brethren beside my lowly self. Lest, in ignorance or in knowledge, I may sin against You. Let Satan complain against me before You. I am always protected under the shadow of Your wings No one supports me but You. Let Satan deprive me of everything. But, as long as I acquire You, he will never be able to draw me away from You. You are my wealth, my happiness, and my fulfillment in everything. Amid affliction my soul gives You thanks and praise. Because my heart is lifted up to You; It has no other place in this world. Nor the world has a place in it.
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