The Book of Job is the first of the poetic books in the Bible. The poetic books include Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Solomon. Rhythm and rhyme aren’t usually elements of Hebrew poetry; rather, it is multiplying and building thoughts using repetition, contrast, restatement, and parallel.

We do not know who wrote the book of Job, nor exactly when it was written, or even when these events took place. Several authors have been suggested, including Moses, Solomon, Ezra, and Elihu, but we don’t know. The story is believed to have taken place during the time of the patriarchs, before the Exodus, as there is no mention of the Law or the Levitical priesthood, and Job was the priest over his family. This book is believed by many to be the oldest book in the Bible.

The book of Job is a great piece of literature and a profound philosophical and theological work. Many writers, both secular and religious, have acclaimed it as one of the greatest books ever written. It gives us insights into the heavenly realm and the role of Satan in a more detailed way than is found anywhere else in Scripture. It deals with some of the most troublesome questions in life, including: Why do good people suffer? Why does God allow tragedies to happen in the lives of Hist people? Besides wrestling with these tough theological and practical questions, this book teaches us much about patience. It gives us insights into the do’s and don’ts of comforting and counseling someone who is going through a tough time. Lastly, it paints a vivid picture of God, as we see Him in all His majesty and power, His sovereignty and compassion, as well as His faithfulness in restoring what Satan has stolen.

The Book of Job can make for rather tedious reading; but that in itself adds to the message, as we see how tedious life and suffering can be, especially when no one understands. But in the end God comes through for us and He always will.