REFLECTIONS ON THE BOOK OF JOB AND 9/11

By Nadia Johnson (MCSI Registrar and Librarian)

On the anniversary of September 11, it seems fitting to look at the Book of Job. In fact, there is a growing body of literature in which the events of ‘9/11' (we have had to accept the American styling) and the suffering of Job are compared and analysed. The composer Danny Ashkenasi has even created a musical relating these two events in history (The Song of Job 9:11).

A reading of Job can be heavy and depressing, just as dwelling on the attacks of September 11 can be. The question of suffering, and particularly the suffering of the innocent cannot be answered in human terms. We rail at the injustice, just as Job appealed to God for an explanation of his harsh treatment. There was no explanation for Job, despite the well-meaning theology of his "friends". There is no explanation for atrocities such as 9/11, or other shocking world events, or personal tragedies, despite the responses of well-meaning but sometimes misguided people. Job calls them "miserable comforters".

Christians too, can be guilty of offering clichéd words of encouragement that show little understanding of personal suffering, or indeed of the Scriptures. While there is scriptural evidence that God does discipline his people, the Book of Job is a caution to those who equate suffering with sin. God does not give Job any direct answers, yet Job submits to his Creator with love and humility and trust.

The Book of Job ends in a spirit of hope as Job's health and fortunes are restored to him in double measure. We too have that promise of hope as we trust our Creator through all circumstances.

Recommended Reading:
Randy Newman, "Living Without An Answer - What Do You Say When People Ask, ‘How Can a Good God Let This Happen?'" Discipleship Journal, Vol.131, Sep-Oct 2002