Job 20:10

His sons will seek the favor of the poor, for his own hands must return his wealth.

Study Bible

His sons
In the Hebrew text, the word for "sons" is "בָּנָיו" (banav). This term not only refers to literal offspring but can also symbolize one's legacy or future generations. In the context of Job, Zophar is suggesting that the consequences of a person's actions, particularly those of the wicked, extend beyond their own life and affect their descendants. This reflects the biblical principle of generational impact, where the sins or righteousness of one generation can influence the next.

will seek the favor
The phrase "will seek the favor" comes from the Hebrew "יְרַצּוּ" (yeratzu), which implies a need to appease or gain approval. This suggests a reversal of fortune where the descendants of the once-wealthy must humble themselves and seek assistance or goodwill from those they previously overlooked or oppressed. It highlights a theme of humility and the transient nature of earthly wealth and power.

of the poor
The Hebrew word for "poor" is "דַּלִּים" (dalim), which refers to those who are lowly or in need. In the biblical context, the poor are often seen as under God's special care and protection. This phrase underscores a moral and spiritual reversal, where those who were once marginalized become the ones who are sought after, emphasizing God's justice and the ultimate leveling of social hierarchies.

for his own hands
The phrase "for his own hands" in Hebrew is "יָדָיו" (yadav), indicating personal responsibility and the direct consequences of one's actions. In the biblical worldview, one's hands are symbolic of their deeds and labor. This suggests that the individual is directly accountable for their actions, and the repercussions are a result of their own doing.

must return
The Hebrew root "יָשִׁיב" (yashiv) means to restore or give back. This implies a forced restitution, where what was unjustly gained must be returned. It reflects the biblical principle of justice and reparation, where wrongs are righted, and balance is restored according to divine law.

his wealth
The term "wealth" in Hebrew is "הוֹנוֹ" (hono), which encompasses not just material riches but also one's resources and possessions. In the context of Job, wealth is portrayed as fleeting and ultimately belonging to God, who distributes it according to His will. This serves as a reminder of the temporary nature of earthly possessions and the importance of using them in accordance with God's purposes.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Zophar the Naamathite
One of Job's three friends who comes to comfort him. In this chapter, Zophar is speaking, offering his perspective on the fate of the wicked.

2. Job
The central figure of the book, a man of great faith and patience who undergoes severe trials and suffering.

3. The Wicked
In this context, Zophar is describing the fate of the wicked, implying that Job's suffering is due to some hidden sin.

4. The Poor
Those who are disadvantaged or in need, whom the sons of the wicked will seek favor from, according to Zophar's speech.

5. Wealth
A central theme in this verse, representing both material possessions and the moral implications of how it is acquired and used.

Teaching Points

The Temporary Nature of Earthly Wealth
Wealth gained through unrighteous means is fleeting and will ultimately be lost or redistributed.

The Consequences of Sin
Sinful actions have repercussions not only for the individual but also for their descendants, as seen in the fate of the wicked's children.

God's Justice and Provision
God ensures that justice is served, often by elevating the humble and bringing down the proud, as seen in the reversal of fortunes.

The Importance of Righteous Living
True security and legacy come from living a life that honors God, rather than accumulating wealth through unjust means.

Compassion for the Poor
The verse highlights the importance of seeking favor with the poor, suggesting a call to compassion and justice in our dealings with others.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Zophar's perspective on the fate of the wicked challenge or affirm your understanding of God's justice?

2. In what ways does the temporary nature of wealth influence your priorities and decisions in life?

3. How can we ensure that our actions today do not negatively impact future generations, as seen in the consequences faced by the wicked's children?

4. What practical steps can you take to seek favor with the poor and demonstrate God's love and justice in your community?

5. How do the themes of divine justice and reversal of fortunes in Job 20:10 connect with Jesus' teachings in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 13:22
This verse speaks about the wealth of the sinner being stored up for the righteous, which parallels the idea of wealth being redistributed from the wicked to the poor.

Ecclesiastes 2:26
Discusses how God gives wisdom, knowledge, and happiness to those who please Him, but the sinner's wealth is gathered for the righteous.

Luke 1:53
Mary's Magnificat mentions how God fills the hungry with good things but sends the rich away empty, echoing the theme of divine justice and reversal of fortunes.