Job 20:1-13 ▼

1 Then Zophar from Naama replied [to Job],

2 |My disturbing thoughts make me answer, and because of them I am upset.

3 I have heard criticism that makes me ashamed, but a spirit beyond my understanding gives me answers.

4 |Don't you know that from ancient times, from the time humans were placed on earth,

5 the triumph of the wicked is short-lived, and the joy of the godless person lasts only a moment?

6 If his height reaches to the sky and his head touches the clouds,

7 he will certainly rot like his own feces. Those who have seen him will say, 'Where is he?'

8 He will fly away like a dream and not be found. He will be chased away like a vision in the night.

9 Eyes that saw him will see him no more. His home will not look at him again.

10 His children will have to ask the poor for help. His own hands will have to give back his wealth.

11 His bones, once full of youthful vigor, will lie down with him in the dust.

12 |Though evil is sweet in his mouth and he hides it under his tongue....

13 Though he savors it and won't let go of it and he holds it on the roof of his mouth,