Job 6:20

They are confounded because they had hoped; their arrival brings disappointment.

Study Bible

They are confounded
The Hebrew word used here is "בּוֹשׁ" (bosh), which conveys a sense of being put to shame or feeling disappointed. In the context of Job's lament, this phrase reflects the deep disillusionment of those who expected something different from their circumstances. Historically, this can be seen as a reflection of the human condition when expectations are unmet, leading to confusion and a sense of betrayal. Job's friends, who came to comfort him, are themselves confounded by the depth of his suffering, which challenges their understanding of divine justice.

because they had hoped
The Hebrew root "יָחַל" (yachal) means to wait or to hope. This phrase captures the essence of human expectation and the natural inclination to anticipate positive outcomes. In the biblical narrative, hope is often tied to faith in God's promises. However, in Job's situation, the hope of his friends and perhaps Job himself is dashed, highlighting the tension between human expectation and divine sovereignty. This serves as a reminder of the limitations of human understanding and the need for trust in God's greater plan.

they came there
This phrase indicates the physical journey of Job's friends to be with him in his time of distress. The act of coming to Job signifies an intention to support and console. In the ancient Near Eastern context, visiting someone in mourning or distress was a cultural expression of solidarity and compassion. However, their arrival also sets the stage for the unfolding dialogue that reveals their misconceptions about suffering and divine justice.

and were ashamed
The Hebrew word "חָפֵר" (chapher) means to be disgraced or humiliated. This phrase underscores the emotional impact of unmet expectations. Job's friends, who came with preconceived notions of righteousness and retribution, find themselves embarrassed by their inability to provide comfort or answers. This shame is not just personal but also theological, as it challenges their understanding of God's ways. It serves as a powerful reminder of the humility required in the face of divine mystery and the importance of compassion over judgment.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Job's Friends
Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar, who come to comfort Job but end up offering misguided counsel.

3. The Land of Uz
The setting of the Book of Job, a region whose exact location is uncertain but is traditionally considered to be in the area of Edom or northern Arabia.

4. God
The ultimate sovereign being who allows Job's trials to test his faith and integrity.

5. The Event of Job's Suffering
Job's loss of wealth, health, and family, which sets the stage for the dialogues and discourses in the book.

Teaching Points

Understanding Misplaced Hope
Job 6:20 highlights the danger of placing hope in human wisdom or circumstances rather than in God. Believers are encouraged to examine where they place their hope and ensure it is rooted in God's promises.

The Reality of Disappointment
Disappointment is a common human experience, as seen in Job's lament. Christians are reminded that while earthly hopes may fail, God's faithfulness remains constant.

The Importance of Empathy in Friendship
Job's friends arrived with the intention to comfort but ended up causing more pain. This teaches the importance of empathy and listening in supporting those who suffer.

The Role of Suffering in Spiritual Growth
Job's trials serve as a reminder that suffering can lead to deeper faith and reliance on God. Believers are encouraged to seek God's purpose in their trials.

Hope Anchored in Christ
While Job's hope was momentarily misplaced, Christians have the assurance of hope in Christ, which does not disappoint. This hope should be the anchor of our souls.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Job 6:20 reflect the human experience of disappointment, and how can we guard against misplaced hope in our own lives?

2. In what ways can the response of Job's friends serve as a lesson for us in how to support others who are suffering?

3. How do the themes of hope and disappointment in Job 6:20 connect with the promises found in the New Testament, particularly in Romans 5:5?

4. What practical steps can we take to ensure our hope is anchored in God rather than in temporary circumstances or human wisdom?

5. How can the account of Job encourage us to find purpose and growth in our own times of suffering and trial?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 13:12
This verse speaks about hope deferred making the heart sick, which connects to the theme of disappointment in Job 6:20.

Psalm 25:3
This verse emphasizes that those who hope in God will not be put to shame, contrasting with the disappointment expressed in Job 6:20.

Romans 5:5
This New Testament verse speaks of hope that does not disappoint, offering a perspective of hope fulfilled through faith in Christ.

Isaiah 49:23
This verse promises that those who hope in the Lord will not be disappointed, providing a prophetic assurance against the backdrop of Job's lament.

Hebrews 11:1
This verse defines faith as the assurance of things hoped for, which can be contrasted with the misplaced hope of Job's friends.