The book of Job proves that bad things do happen to good people, and the timeless question it raises is "Why?" How can we hold to the justice and goodness of God in the face of undeserved tragedy? What is more, this great Old Testament book shows how condescending and superficial the attempts to comfort someone who is suffering can be.

Drawing on his background as pastor, hospital chaplain, and seminary teacher, Daniel Simundson combines theological and pastoral concerns throughout his thematic survey of the trend of thought in the book of Job. The result is a useful resource for caregivers, general readers, study groups, and biblical classes. A rare combination of Old Testament scholarship and pastoral sensitivity, designed especially for those who would minister to suffering individuals, as well as for those who are struggling with suffering in their own lives.
-- Terence Fretheim Daniel J. Simundson is Professor of Old Testament at Luther Seminary in St. Paul, Minnesota. He received his B.D. degree form Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago and his Ph.D. degree from Harvard University, where he was also a teaching fellow. Throughout his career, Simundson has maintained what he considers the equally important roles of pastor and scholar. Among his other books are Faith Under Fire and Where Is God in My Suffering?