Job 20:14

yet in his stomach his food sours into the venom of cobras within him.

Study Bible

yet his food
The Hebrew word for "food" here is "לחם" (lechem), which often refers to bread or sustenance. In the context of Job, this "food" symbolizes the wealth and pleasures that the wicked consume. Historically, bread has been a staple of life, representing basic needs and desires. The use of "food" in this verse suggests that what the wicked consume for satisfaction will ultimately fail them. It is a reminder that earthly pleasures are temporary and can turn into sources of distress.

will sour in his stomach
The phrase "will sour" comes from the Hebrew "נהפך" (nehephach), meaning to turn or change. This transformation indicates a shift from something seemingly good to something harmful. The "stomach" (בטן, beten) is often used metaphorically in Scripture to represent the innermost parts of a person, their desires, and emotions. The souring of food in the stomach symbolizes the internal corruption and dissatisfaction that follows the pursuit of sinful pleasures. It serves as a warning that what is consumed in sin will not bring lasting joy or fulfillment.

it will become the venom of cobras
The "venom of cobras" is a powerful image. The Hebrew word for "venom" is "רוש" (rosh), which can also mean poison or gall. Cobras, or "פתן" (pethen), are known for their deadly bite, representing danger and death. In ancient times, cobras were feared and respected for their lethal power. This imagery conveys the idea that the consequences of wickedness are not just unpleasant but deadly. The transformation of food into venom highlights the destructive nature of sin, which can lead to spiritual death.

within him
The phrase "within him" emphasizes the internal nature of the consequences of sin. The Hebrew "קרבו" (qirbo) refers to the inward parts, suggesting that the effects of sin are deeply personal and internalized. This internalization of sin's consequences serves as a sobering reminder that the true cost of wickedness is borne within the individual, affecting their soul and relationship with God. It underscores the biblical principle that sin, while often hidden from others, cannot be hidden from God and will ultimately manifest in the life of the sinner.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Job
A man described as blameless and upright, who feared God and shunned evil. The central figure in the Book of Job, he undergoes severe trials and suffering.

2. Zophar the Naamathite
One of Job's three friends who visit him to offer counsel. Zophar is the speaker in Job 20, delivering a speech that emphasizes the fate of the wicked.

3. The Wicked
In this context, Zophar is describing the fate of the wicked, suggesting that their ill-gotten gains will turn against them.

4. Cobra
A venomous snake used metaphorically to describe the deadly consequences of sin and wickedness.

5. The Book of Job
A poetic and philosophical book in the Old Testament that explores themes of suffering, justice, and the sovereignty of God.

Teaching Points

The Deceptive Nature of Sin
Sin may initially appear satisfying or beneficial, but it ultimately leads to destruction and bitterness, much like food that turns to venom.

The Consequences of Wickedness
The passage serves as a warning that the gains of the wicked will not bring lasting satisfaction and will ultimately lead to their downfall.

The Importance of Righteous Living
In contrast to the fate of the wicked, living a life of integrity and righteousness aligns with God's will and leads to true fulfillment.

The Role of Friends in Times of Suffering
Zophar's speech, while intended to counsel, reflects a misunderstanding of Job's situation. This highlights the need for discernment and compassion when offering support to those in distress.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the metaphor of food turning into venom in Job 20:14 illustrate the consequences of sin in our lives?

2. In what ways can the imagery of the cobra's venom be seen in other parts of Scripture, and what lessons can we draw from these connections?

3. How can we guard against the deceptive allure of sin, ensuring that our actions align with God's righteousness?

4. Reflect on a time when you experienced or witnessed the temporary satisfaction of sin turning into bitterness. How did this experience shape your understanding of God's justice?

5. How can we offer support and counsel to friends in distress without falling into the same errors as Zophar and Job's other friends?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 23:31-32
This passage warns against the deceptive allure of wine, comparing it to a serpent that bites and a viper that stings, similar to the metaphor of the cobra's venom in Job 20:14.

Psalm 140:3
Describes the wicked as having tongues as sharp as a serpent's, with the venom of vipers on their lips, paralleling the imagery of venom in Job 20:14.

James 1:14-15
Discusses how desire, when conceived, gives birth to sin, and sin, when fully grown, brings forth death, echoing the transformation of food into venom in Job 20:14.