Job

[Paris_Blues]

I’m currently reading the book of Job. I can’t quite discern how I should take it or interpret it. I mean, is it suppose to be symbolic or did this really happen to him, or is this how we should think, or what? I’m asking this 'cause I can never interpret Scripture right! Could someone just give me a clue? Please?

 

[Tietjen]

Paris Blues:

I’m currently reading the book of Job. I can’t quite discern how I should take it or interpret it. I mean, is it suppose to be symbolic or did this really happen to him, or is this how we should think, or what? I’m asking this 'cause I can never interpret Scripture right! Could someone just give me a clue? Please?

Excuse my quoting from the introduction of Job:

The author of the book is not known; it was composed some time between the seventh and fifth centuries B.C. Its literary form, with speeches, prologue and epilogue disposed according to a studied plan, indicates that the purpose of the writing is didactic (to teach). The lesson is that even the just may suffer here, and their sufferings are a test of their fidelity. They shall be rewarded in the end. Man’s finite mind cannot probe the depths of the divine omniscience that governs the world. The problems we encounter can be solved by a broader and deeper awareness of God’s power, presence (Job 42:5) and wisdom.

Did a real person named Job actually exist and experience what is in the book? I believe so, but that is not the point of the book itself. The point is to understand that suffering is not necessarily a punishment, but can be used by God as a test of faith. Knowing whether this book is literal or not is not as important as the lesson conveyed.