201 Then Zophar the Naamathite answered, 2 “Therefore do my thoughts give answer to me,
even by reason of my haste that is in me. 3 I have heard the reproof which puts me to shame.
The spirit of my understanding answers me. 4 Don’t you know this from old time,
since man was placed on earth, 5 that the triumphing of the wicked is short,
the joy of the godless but for a moment? 6 Though his height mount up to the heavens,
and his head reach to the clouds, 7 yet he shall perish forever like his own dung.
Those who have seen him shall say, ‘Where is he?’ 8 He shall fly away as a dream, and shall not be found.
Yes, he shall be chased away like a vision of the night. 9 The eye which saw him shall see him no more,
neither shall his place any more see him.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Job 20:1-9
Commentary on Job 20:1-9
(Read Job 20:1-9)
Zophar's discourse is upon the certain misery of the wicked. The triumph of the wicked and the joy of the hypocrite are fleeting. The pleasures and gains of sin bring disease and pain; they end in remorse, anguish, and ruin. Dissembled piety is double iniquity, and the ruin that attends it will be accordingly.