Charles Ellicott Commentary Job 20
Charles Ellicott Commentary
Job 20
Charles Ellicott Commentary
Job 20
"Then answered Zophar the Naamathite, and said," — Job 20:1 (ASV)
Then answered Zophar. —Zophar retorts with yet greater vehemence than before, and assumes a more ornate and elaborate style, still reiterating the previous theme of the speedy doom of the wicked man.
"Therefore do my thoughts give answer to me, Even by reason of my haste that is in me." — Job 20:2 (ASV)
Therefore. That is, because of the eagerness that is in him. His spirit is stirred in him, and impels him to reply.
"I have heard the reproof which putteth me to shame; And the spirit of my understanding answereth me." — Job 20:3 (ASV)
I have heard the check of my reproach. —Rather, I have heard, or, I hear the reproof of my shame: that is, a reproof that puts me to shame, or is intended to do so.
The spirit of my understanding causes me to answer. —Or, more literally, Out of my understanding my spirit answers me, or causes me to answer. He professes to be moved by an impulse within, which he cannot but obey.
"That the triumphing of the wicked is short, And the joy of the godless but for a moment?" — Job 20:5 (ASV)
The triumphing of the wicked is short. —He affirms that the destruction of the wicked is not only certain, but speedy. (Compare to Psalms 103:16 and Job 7:8, 10.)
"His children shall seek the favor of the poor, And his hands shall give back his wealth." — Job 20:10 (ASV)
His children shall seek to please the poor. —That is, shall seek their favour by making good what had been taken from them, or otherwise; or it may be rendered, the poor shall oppress his children.
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