Job 24:20

The womb forgets them; the worm feeds on them; they are remembered no more. So injustice is like a broken tree.

Study Bible

The womb forgets him
This phrase evokes the imagery of a mother’s womb, which is typically associated with nurturing and remembrance. In Hebrew, the word for "womb" is "רֶחֶם" (rechem), which also conveys compassion and mercy. The idea here is that even the most intimate and nurturing source, the womb, forgets the wicked after death. This suggests a complete severance from life and memory, emphasizing the ultimate insignificance of the wicked in the grand scheme of God’s justice. Theologically, it underscores the belief that earthly ties and memories do not transcend into the afterlife for those who live in wickedness.

the worm feasts on him
The imagery of worms consuming the body is a stark reminder of mortality and the physical decay that follows death. In the Hebrew context, "worm" (תּוֹלֵעָה, tole'ah) often symbolizes corruption and destruction. This phrase serves as a vivid metaphor for the inevitable decay that awaits all humans, but particularly highlights the ignoble end of the wicked. It reflects the biblical theme that earthly power and wealth cannot prevent the natural process of decay, reinforcing the futility of wickedness.

he is remembered no more
This phrase speaks to the erasure of the wicked from memory, both human and divine. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, being remembered was synonymous with honor and legacy. The Hebrew concept of memory (זָכַר, zakar) is deeply tied to identity and existence. To be forgotten is to be effectively erased from history and significance. This serves as a sobering reminder of the transient nature of life and the ultimate judgment that awaits those who live unrighteously.

So wickedness is broken like a tree
The metaphor of a tree being broken is powerful in its depiction of sudden and complete destruction. In biblical literature, trees often symbolize strength, stability, and life. The breaking of a tree (עֵץ, etz) signifies the abrupt end of what once seemed strong and enduring. This imagery conveys the message that wickedness, no matter how deeply rooted or seemingly robust, will ultimately be shattered by divine justice. It serves as a warning and a call to righteousness, emphasizing that God’s judgment is both inevitable and just.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Job
The central figure in the Book of Job, a man of great faith who undergoes severe trials and questions the justice of God.

2. The Womb
Symbolically represents the origin of life, which in this context, forgets the wicked after death.

3. The Worm
Represents decay and the inevitable return to dust, emphasizing the mortality of humans.

4. Injustice
Personified as something that is ultimately broken, highlighting the temporary nature of evil.

5. The Tree
Used metaphorically to describe the breaking or downfall of injustice, suggesting that even strong, seemingly enduring things can be destroyed.

Teaching Points

The Transience of Life and Injustice
Life is fleeting, and earthly injustices, though they may seem powerful, are temporary and will ultimately be broken.

The Inevitable Justice of God
While injustice may seem to prevail, God's justice is inevitable and will ultimately triumph, as symbolized by the breaking of the tree.

The Importance of Eternal Perspective
Believers are encouraged to focus on eternal values rather than temporary earthly gains, aligning with the teachings of Jesus about storing treasures in heaven.

The Role of Faith in Trials
Like Job, believers are called to maintain faith in God's justice and sovereignty, even when faced with apparent injustices and suffering.

The Reminder of Mortality
The imagery of the womb and the worm serves as a reminder of human mortality, urging believers to live with an awareness of their ultimate accountability to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of the womb and the worm in Job 24:20 help us understand the temporary nature of life and injustice?

2. In what ways can the metaphor of the tree being broken inform our understanding of God's justice?

3. How can we apply the lesson of the transience of life to our daily decisions and priorities?

4. What other biblical passages reinforce the idea that earthly injustices are temporary and will be addressed by God?

5. How can Job's response to his trials inspire us to maintain faith in God's justice and sovereignty in our own lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ecclesiastes 12:7
This verse speaks of the body returning to dust and the spirit returning to God, paralleling the theme of mortality and the end of earthly life.

Psalm 37:35-36
Describes the temporary prosperity of the wicked and their eventual downfall, similar to the breaking of injustice like a tree.

Isaiah 40:6-8
Highlights the fleeting nature of human life and the enduring word of God, reinforcing the idea that earthly injustices are temporary.

Matthew 6:19-21
Jesus teaches about storing treasures in heaven rather than on earth, aligning with the theme of the temporary nature of earthly life and injustice.

James 1:11
Compares the fading of the rich to the withering of grass, echoing the transient nature of human life and accomplishments.