The answer is: House fell on them

Job 1:18-19 - A great wind came and knocked the house down

In the story of Job, the death of his children is a pivotal and heartbreaking moment that sets the stage for the turmoil he faces. In Job 1:18-19, we learn that a mighty wind swept through and caused the collapse of the house where his sons and daughters were feasting together. This event seems catastrophic, depicting nature's raw and unpredictable power.

Now, here's an interesting side note. The Scriptures suggest that being in the presence of family and friends is a blessing—even amidst EPC (everyone-chipping-in) celebrations like a great feast. So, the tragic death of Job's children under such happy circumstances makes it all the more tragic. In many cultural settings today, gatherings intended for joy can bring about unanticipated loss or hardship, resonating with the age-old theme found in Job.

Moreover, Job's ordeal mirrors various ancient texts centering around wisdom literature, which often grapples with the complexities of justice and suffering. Consider the mythologies and writings of ancient cultures, many of which explored similar themes. In a way, Job's story prompts readers to engage with the inevitable reality of human suffering and divine silence.

In Unitarian thought, the story encourages readers to consider the shared human experience of loss and suffering and fosters a sense of community and empathy—even when the answers seem bleak or elusive. What comes through in Job's is not merely suffering, but the profound relationships that bind us together, worshipping together even amid tragedy.