Job of Moscow

Job of Moscow (died 1607) holds a pivotal position in Russian ecclesiastical history as the first Patriarch of Moscow and all Rus'. His tenure as Metropolitan of Moscow and all Rus' from 1587 to 1589 preceded his elevation to the patriarchal office, which he held from 1589 to 1605. The Russian Orthodox Church later canonized him in 1989, recognizing his significant contributions.

Early Life and Monasticism

Born Ioann, his early life was marked by a strong inclination towards monasticism. Despite his father's wishes for him to marry, Ioann, as a teenager, sought spiritual guidance. In 1551, he entered the Uspensky Monastery in Staritsa, took monastic vows, and received the religious name Job. He spent fifteen years in monastic life before being appointed abbot of the cloister in 1566.

Rise to Metropolitan and Patriarch

Job's reputation for piety, learning, and dedication to the church, particularly noted by Ivan the Terrible and later by Boris Godunov, facilitated his rise. He served as abbot of several prominent monasteries, including Simonov and Novospassky, and was consecrated bishop of Kolomna in 1581. In 1587, he was appointed archbishop of Rostov and Metropolitan of Moscow and all Russia. Godunov, seeking to increase ecclesiastical authority in Russia, orchestrated the establishment of a patriarchate in Moscow. On February 5, 1589, Job was consecrated as the first Russian patriarch by Jeremias II, the Patriarch of Constantinople, marking Moscow's claim as a "third Rome."

Patriarchal Ministry and Influence

As Patriarch, Job worked to strengthen the Russian Church. He oversaw the correction and publication of liturgical books and assisted in the canonization of several Russian saints. He also supported missionary efforts in newly conquered territories like Astrakhan and Siberia. Job expressed concern over foreign religious influence, opposing the establishment of a university staffed by non-Orthodox professors. He played a role in state affairs, notably heading the inquiry into Tsarevich Dmitry's death in 1591, which concluded it was an accidental self-inflicted wound. Following Tsar Feodor I's death, Job briefly served as head of state and was instrumental in offering the tsardom to Boris Godunov in 1598.

Later Years and Death

Job was a vocal critic of False Dmitry I and urged Muscovites to remain loyal to the former dynasty. His formal removal from office occurred in June 1605, attributed to old age and ill health, and he was exiled to Staritsa, where he lost his sight. He returned to Moscow briefly in 1607, participating in a joint liturgy with Patriarch Hermogen. Job died that year, a sick man. His relics were transferred to the Cathedral of the Dormition in the Moscow Kremlin in 1652.