The answer is: Broken pottery

Job 2:7-8 - The KJV says potsherd which is a fragment of broken vessel. He sat in the ashes while he did this to show his sorrow.

In the ancient story of Job, we encounter a man not only in profound personal distress but also engaged in the cultural practices of mourning and humility of that time. When Job scraped his painful sores with broken pottery, also known as "potsherds," it symbolized his beaten-down state and his utter desperation. The ashes he sat in were a conventional sign of mourning; think of it as Job wearing his grief on his sleeves—or rather, coating himself in it!

It’s fascinating to note that the act of sitting in ashes can be found throughout the Bible. For instance, in the book of Esther, Mordecai dons sackcloth and ashes upon hearing the news of decree against the Jews. This gesture strengthens the connection between openly displaying sorrow and seeking appeasement—whether with God, fellow humans, or one's own conscience.

Interestingly, while Job is known for his patience in the face of suffering, this moment captures deep human vulnerability. Despite enduring immense hardship—loss of wealth, health, and family—Job wasn't afraid to show his physical and emotional pain. This view might echo through the ages, highlighting how every culture, no matter how far removed in time, shares a common thread of confronting suffering with honesty and openness.

Moreover, broken pottery isn't just a sad symbol; in biblical times, pottery shards often held a dual purpose—a reminder that brokenness can lead to life lessons (after all, roots do push their way through rocks!). Through Job, we see that acknowledgment of hardship is not just the end, but rather the start of a profound dialogue on resilience and humanity.