Job – Chapter 26

Old Testament14 Verses

1Then Job answered, and said:

2Whose helper art thou? is it of him that is weak? and dost thou hold up the arm of him that has no strength?

3To whom hast thou given counsel? perhaps to him that hath no wisdom, and thou hast shewn thy very great prudence.

4Whom hast thou desired to teach? was it not him that made life?

5Behold the giants groan under the waters, and they that dwell with them.

6Hell is naked before him, and there is no covering for destruction.

7He stretched out the north over the empty space, and hangeth the earth upon nothing.

8He bindeth up the waters in his clouds, so that they break not out and fall down together.

9He withholdeth the face of his throne, and spreadeth his cloud over it.

10He hath set bounds about the waters, till light and darkness come to an end.

11The pillars of heaven tremble, and dread at his beck.

12By his power the seas are suddenly gathered together, and his wisdom has struck the proud one.

13His spirit hath adorned the heavens, and his obstetric hand brought forth the winding serpent.

14Lo, these things are said in part of his ways: and seeing we have heard scarce a little drop of his word, who shall be able to behold the thunder of his greatness?

Reflection for Today

In Job Chapter 26, we encounter the continuing revelation of suffering, faith, and divine mystery. The Catholic Church, guided by the Holy Spirit, has always treasured these sacred texts. the Church sees Job as prefiguring Christ in innocent suffering (CIC 1502). The central message—God's ways transcend human understanding—speaks to believers in every age.

The Magisterium teaches that Scripture must be interpreted in light of the whole of revelation and the Church's living Tradition. The Catechism emphasizes that "the task of giving an authentic interpretation of the Word of God has been entrusted to the living teaching office of the Church alone" (CIC 85). This does not limit our engagement with Scripture but ensures its proper understanding.

As you reflect on this chapter, consider how its message applies to your life today. The Word of God is living and active, capable of transforming hearts and renewing minds. Through prayer and meditation, allow the Holy Spirit to speak to you through these ancient yet ever-new words.

💡Catholic Reflection • Church Teachings

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