Job 20:18

He must return the fruit of his labor without consuming it; he cannot enjoy the profits of his trading.

Study Bible

He will restore
The Hebrew root for "restore" is "shuv," which often means to return or bring back. In the context of Job, this suggests a forced restitution, a returning of ill-gotten gains. Theologically, this reflects the biblical principle of justice and reparation, where wrongs must be righted. It underscores the idea that material wealth obtained through unrighteous means will ultimately be returned, aligning with the divine justice that permeates Scripture.

what he has gained
The phrase "what he has gained" refers to the wealth or possessions acquired, often through unjust means. In the historical context of Job, wealth was seen as a sign of God's blessing, but this verse challenges that notion by suggesting that not all wealth is righteous. The Hebrew word "chayil" can mean strength or wealth, indicating that what was gained through strength or cunning will not be retained if it was acquired unrighteously.

but will not enjoy it
The inability to enjoy wealth is a recurring theme in wisdom literature, emphasizing the futility of materialism without righteousness. The Hebrew word "balah" means to swallow or consume, suggesting that the wealth will not be consumed or enjoyed. This reflects the biblical teaching that true joy and satisfaction come from God, not from material possessions.

he cannot revel
The word "revel" implies a sense of joy or celebration. The Hebrew root "samach" means to rejoice or be glad. The verse indicates that the wicked will be denied the joy that comes from their ill-gotten gains. This aligns with the biblical principle that true joy is a gift from God and cannot be derived from unrighteousness.

in the profit
"Profit" here refers to the increase or gain from one's labor or trading. The Hebrew word "tvuah" can mean produce or yield, suggesting that the increase from one's efforts will not bring satisfaction if obtained through unjust means. This reflects the biblical teaching that God blesses honest labor, but dishonest gain leads to emptiness.

from his trading
The term "trading" involves commerce or business dealings. The Hebrew word "mimkar" refers to merchandise or trade. In the ancient Near Eastern context, trade was a common means of acquiring wealth. This phrase highlights the moral implications of business practices, emphasizing that integrity in commerce is essential for true prosperity and divine favor.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Zophar the Naamathite
One of Job's three friends who comes to comfort him. Zophar is known for his harsh and direct speeches, often emphasizing God's justice and the consequences of wickedness.

2. Job
The central figure of the Book of Job, a man known for his righteousness and suffering. Job's account is a profound exploration of faith, suffering, and divine justice.

3. The Land of Uz
The setting of the Book of Job, traditionally considered to be in the region of Edom or northern Arabia.

4. The Discourse on Wickedness
Zophar's speech in Job 20 is part of a larger discourse on the fate of the wicked, emphasizing that their prosperity is temporary and ultimately futile.

5. The Concept of Divine Justice
A recurring theme in the Book of Job, where the friends argue that suffering is a result of sin, while Job maintains his innocence.

Teaching Points

The Temporary Nature of Ill-Gotten Gains
Zophar's message serves as a reminder that wealth obtained through unrighteous means will not bring lasting satisfaction or joy. This aligns with the biblical principle that true contentment comes from righteousness and integrity.

The Importance of Righteousness Over Wealth
The verse challenges believers to prioritize righteousness over material success. It encourages a focus on spiritual wealth, which is eternal, rather than temporary earthly gains.

The Consequences of Wickedness
Zophar's speech highlights the inevitable consequences of living a life contrary to God's will. It serves as a warning that the pursuit of wealth at the expense of righteousness leads to emptiness and loss.

Trust in God's Justice
While Zophar's understanding of divine justice is limited, the broader account of Job encourages trust in God's ultimate justice and sovereignty, even when circumstances are difficult to understand.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Zophar's perspective on wealth and righteousness challenge our modern views on success and prosperity?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our pursuit of material success does not compromise our spiritual integrity?

3. How does the theme of divine justice in Job 20:18 relate to the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament?

4. What practical steps can we take to prioritize spiritual wealth over material wealth in our daily lives?

5. How can the account of Job and his friends help us navigate conversations about suffering and divine justice in our own lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 11:18
This verse speaks about the deceptive nature of wicked gains, aligning with Zophar's assertion that ill-gotten wealth will not bring lasting joy or satisfaction.

Ecclesiastes 5:10
This passage discusses the futility of wealth and how it cannot satisfy the soul, echoing the idea that material gain without righteousness is ultimately unfulfilling.

Matthew 16:26
Jesus' teaching on the value of the soul over worldly gain connects to the theme of the temporary nature of material wealth and the importance of spiritual integrity.