Question
Gramps,
I was wondering if Job really existed? Is there a church statement that said he did, or do we just assume he did. I have heard from scholars that his life is more of just a symbolism (perhaps of Christ). I am confused on the subject.
Victor
Answer
Dear Victor,
I wish I could point you to a definitive answer one way or the other. We simply do not have it. Finding proof of a single individual so far back in our history is a very hard thing to do.
It could be a fabricated account, it could be a mixed and embellished account taking events of several different peoples lives and weaving their tales together. Or it could be the account of a singular man and how he faced his trials, with embellishments added over time.
However the important thing with Job is not in whether he existed. It’s how it teaches us that we should respond when we are faced with our own trials. How even if we are following God as best as we can, we will not be immune to trials and hardships. This is why the Book of Job was important in the past and continues to be important to us today.
Gramps
