Chapter 6: Friends Who Became Accusers

When three of Job's friends heard about everything that had happened, they came to see him. Their names were Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar. They traveled to comfort him.

But when they saw Job from a distance, they did not recognize him. They wept aloud, tore their robes, and sprinkled dust on their heads, the ancient sign of grief.

Then they sat down with him on the ground. For seven days and seven nights, no one said a word. His suffering was too great for words.

Finally, Job broke the silence.

JOB“Why did I not die at birth? Why was I not buried like a stillborn child? Then I would be at rest now, free from all this pain.”— Job 3:11-13

Eliphaz spoke first.

ELIPHAZ“Think about it, Job. Who that was innocent ever perished? Those who plant trouble and sow evil will harvest the same. You must have sinned. Confess it, and God will restore you.”— Job 4:7-8

But Job had done nothing wrong. He knew it. And their words cut deeper than his sores.

JOB“I have not denied the words of the Holy One. Show me where I have gone wrong! Your words bring no comfort — only more pain.”— Job 6:10, 24

For many days, Job's friends argued back and forth with him. Bildad and Zophar took their turns, each insisting Job must have sinned. And each time, Job maintained his innocence.

Job sat alone — wondering if God had forgotten him too.