Fathers

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What the Fathers say

Job 4:3

Western Saints

Gregory the Dialogist

Behold, thou hast instructed many, and thou hast strengthened the weak hands. Thy words have upholden him that was falling, and thou hast strengthened the feeble knees. If the text of the historical account be regarded in itself, it is of great service to the reader, that in blessed Job, instead of the ripping up of vices, proclaim is made of his virtues by his reviling friends; for the testimony to our manner of life is never so strong, as when commendable things are told by him, who aims to fasten guilt upon our head. …

Morals on the Book of Job, Book V ↗

Thomas Aquinas

He next proceeds to clearly demonstrate Job's impatience, by exaggerating this impatience from two points of view: his former teaching and his former life. From his former teaching, indeed, because it is shameful for a man to not practice what he teaches to others. As St. Matthew says, "For they say and do not do." (23:3) Before Job had held many back from impatience, and used to adapt his teaching to different men in different ways. …

Commentary on Job ↗