Righteous Job (Gracanica) Icon - S449

Job was a descendent of Abraham, and righteous in every way. For this, he was richly blessed with wealth and power. God saw fit to test Job. All at once, he lost his children and his wealth. His body was afflicted with painful sores. Job's few remaining friends, and even his wife, urged him to curse God; yet in all his suffering, Job remained faithful and endured everything with patience. After all this, God restored Job and doubled his former prosperity. He reposed about the year 1350 BC.

The story of the Righteous Job is given in the Old Testament. His life challenges us to remain thankful and faithful to God in our own lives, no matter what befalls us. Without facing temptations, and overcoming them with trust in God, it is impossible to be saved.

Saint Job is commemorated on May 6. In this 14th century fresco from the Gračanica Monastery in Serbia, he is depicted in expensive robes. His hands are outstretched in a gesture of prayer and humility.