This research paper by Robert W. Hertha, submitted to Dr. Richard Belcher Jr. for OT512 – Poets at Reformed Theological Seminary – Charlotte, defends the authenticity of Job’s repentance in Job 42:1–6 against interpretations that view it as ironic or insincere. Hertha argues that Job’s final response to God reveals true humility and a transformed understanding of divine sovereignty rather than sarcasm or defiance.
Through close analysis of Job 40:3–5 and 42:1–6, Hertha demonstrates that Job’s earlier silence before God prepared the way for genuine repentance. Examining the Hebrew grammar of verse 6, he refutes claims that Job’s language implies rejection or self-despising apart from moral confession. Instead, Hertha shows that Job’s use of the verbs maʾas (“reject”) and naḥam (“repent”) express contrition and acknowledgment of God’s majesty. He concludes that Job does not retract his faith or challenge divine justice but submits in awe, repenting “in dust and ashes” as a sign of restored worship.
The paper further considers the theological implications of this reading, maintaining that Job’s repentance completes the book’s argument: God’s glory is upheld and Job’s righteousness is vindicated through humble faith. Hertha concludes that Job’s repentance is both genuine and exemplary—an invitation for all believers to submit to God’s mysterious wisdom with reverence, repentance, and renewed trust.
Course and semester: OT512 Poets — Spring 2019
