Human suffering as a profound mystery. It is deeply rooted in the human condition. It is both Supernatural and at the same time Human. It is supernatural because it is rooted in the divine mystery of redemption of the world. By Bishop Rey Getaldo of the Catholic Church.

It is Human, because in it the person discovers himself, his own humanity, his own dignity, his own mission. Suffering is certainly part of the mystery of man.

Human suffering is the experience of physical, emotional, or psychological pain, distress, or hardship that negatively impacts a person’s wellbeing. It often arises from various sources, including illness, loss, conflict, trauma, or unmet needs. Suffering can be temporary or prolonged, and it varies in intensity based on factors like individual resilience, social support and personal beliefs.

1.Human suffering: a Biblical perspective. Human suffering has long been a subject of reflection in the bible. Whether it is physical, emotional, or spiritual pain, the Bible offers timeless wisdom teaching that suffering while painful, can serve a higher purpose when viewed through the eyes of faith.

A. The origin of Suffering: The Fall of Man.

The Bible begins to address the issue of human suffering with the story of Adam and Eve in the garden of Eden known as the fall of man. Human suffering is often traced back to this event, where disobedience of Adam and Eve led to the brokenness of the world. After they sinned, God said to Eve.

I will multiply your pains in child bearing, you shall give birth to your children in pain. Gen. 3: 16.

And to Adam, God said.

Because you listened to the voice of your wife…. Accursed be the soil because of you. With suffering shall you get your food from it every day of your life. Gen. 3:17.

This passage reveals that suffering entered the world as a result of human sin. While suffering is not something God delights in, it is a result of humanity’s choice to turn away from God.

B. Human suffering, from the Book of Job.

The Book of Job is one of the most profound explorations of human suffering in biblical literature. It tells the story of Job, a righteous man who endures severe suffering despite his faithfulness, loses his health, wealth, and family. Yet, despite his immense suffering Job ultimately trusts in God’s wisdom. It challenges the idea that God rewarded those who are good, and that suffering is a result of sin. Even in the midst of suffering, the bible consistently affirms that God remains in control.

A.Job’s righteousness and initial testing. Job is described as a man who fears God, upright and blameless man. Setting the stage for the paradox of his suffering. Why would such a faithful man suffer so deeply?

            There was a man in the land of Uz, whose name was Job; and that man was blameless and upright, one who feared God and turned away from evil. Job 1:1

After this, God allows Satan to test Job, stripping him of his wealth, his family, and his health.

            The Lord said to Satan, Behold, he is in your hand; only spare his life. Job 2:6

This is the central conflict, Job suffering does not come from any sin but as part of a test, raising questions about the nature of divine justice.

 B. Jobs mourn and expression of misery. As Job’s suffering deepens, he begins to lament his misfortune, feeling abandoned and questioning his own existence.

            Why did I not perish at birth, and die as I came from womb? Job 3:11

Job is wrestling with spiritual despair and feeling of being forsaken.

C. God’s sovereignty in suffering. Job a righteous man, loses everything, yet despite his immense suffering, Job ultimately trusts in God’s wisdom.

            Though he slays me, yet will I hope in him. Job 13:15

It highlights that even when we do not understand the reason for our pain, God’s purpose is always greater than our immediate circumstances.

D. Job’s humility and restoration. Later on, Job humbly repents, recognizing that human understanding is limited compared to God.

I have uttered what I did not understand, things too wonderful for me, which I did not know. Job 38:4

In the end, Job’s fortune is restored, though this does not erase his suffering or answer every question. Suffering is sometimes beyond explanation; faith can lead to a renewed sense of purpose.

The Book of Job shows that human suffering often defies simplistic explanations. It has no easy answers, it invites us to grapple with life’s mysteries, and also accept the limits of human understanding, and hold onto faith amidst suffering. The book of Job challenges us to completely trust in God’s wisdom and compassion, even when we cannot see the reason behind their pain.

2. Understanding the cause of human suffering. Suffering is part and partial of human existence. Since we are born, pain is our companion. The last thing we could remember as we say goodbye is the pain of separation.

A. We suffers because of our own decision/action. The pain that we experienced in our life is due to our own action, may be due to our own weaknesses or ignorance. For example, during our school days we are not serious in our classes. We are easy go lucky, and spent more time with our peer groups. We failed to graduate. Now that we have family, we have problems in taking care of our children. This kind of suffering has nothing to blame except us. We were given the opportunity but we failed to accomplish something to make our life better.

B. We suffer because of the action/decision of others. This kind of suffering is due to the decision/action of others. We are the victim. Example, a drunk driver of a car crushed and hit the other car in the opposite lane. A drunk driver survived. The other car, a teenage girl was badly wounded. She could not walk; her right hand was amputated. She has a bright future. Now she will spend most of her time in a wheelchair.

C. Vicarious suffering. Refers to the concept of one person suffering on behalf of another, often with the intention of bringing about redemption or salvation. This is seen in the suffering of Christ, who endured pain and death for the sake of humanity’s salvation. Furthermore, believers are called to share in this redemptive suffering, completing what is lacking in Christ’s afflictions for the sake of the Church. Example, a school in remote area in Vietnam, somebody threw a grenade, the teacher a seminarian jumps and sacrifice himself so that the young students would not be hurt.

3. Conclusion. Human suffering is described as a mystery that can only be understood through the lens of faith. Believers can unite themselves with Christ Passion, which ultimately leads to the revelation of God’s love and the promise of eternal life. It transforms the perception of suffering from a burden to a source of joy and purpose, as it contributes to the spiritual growth of both the individual and the community.

Bishop Rey Getaldo, Catholic Church.