This verse emphasizes the fleeting nature of wealth acquired unjustly, reminding readers that real fulfillment is found in godliness, not greed.
Zophar continues his counsel to Job by describing the fate of the wicked. He proclaims, “He returns what he has attained and cannot swallow it; As to the riches of his trading, He cannot even enjoy them.” (Job 20:18) In this portrayal, Zophar emphasizes that even if the unrighteous manage to acquire great wealth, they will be forced to relinquish it. This loss highlights how possessions gained through selfish or deceitful means often become burdens rather than blessings. Zophar is one of Job’s friends who entered the scene during Job’s suffering, likely taking place sometime between the patriarchal period (circa 2000-1700 BC) because Job’s lifespan and manner of living resemble those of the patriarchs.
Zophar’s words point to a moral principle repeated throughout Scripture: ill-gotten gain will ultimately fail to bring satisfaction. When he says, “He returns what he has attained and cannot swallow it,” (Job 20:18) Zophar implies that the spoils of the wicked will not only be short-lived, but may turn into a source of anxiety. In a broader sense, this verse illustrates that temporary riches cannot provide permanent fulfillment. It echoes the teaching that material wealth without righteous living cannot satisfy the deepest needs of the human heart (Luke 12:15).
Furthermore, “As to the riches of his trading, He cannot even enjoy them.” (Job 20:18) points to the frustration and emptiness that greets those who misplace their trust in material success. Zophar’s message is reminiscent of Jesus’ warning against hoarding earthly treasure, reminding believers to store up treasures in heaven where lasting joys are found (Matthew 6:19-20). Here, wealth gained through sinful pursuits or with a heart devoid of godliness carries a hidden weight of guilt and spiritual emptiness, preventing any lasting enjoyment of worldly gains.
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Job 20:18 meaning
Zophar continues his counsel to Job by describing the fate of the wicked. He proclaims, “He returns what he has attained and cannot swallow it; As to the riches of his trading, He cannot even enjoy them.” (Job 20:18) In this portrayal, Zophar emphasizes that even if the unrighteous manage to acquire great wealth, they will be forced to relinquish it. This loss highlights how possessions gained through selfish or deceitful means often become burdens rather than blessings. Zophar is one of Job’s friends who entered the scene during Job’s suffering, likely taking place sometime between the patriarchal period (circa 2000-1700 BC) because Job’s lifespan and manner of living resemble those of the patriarchs.
Zophar’s words point to a moral principle repeated throughout Scripture: ill-gotten gain will ultimately fail to bring satisfaction. When he says, “He returns what he has attained and cannot swallow it,” (Job 20:18) Zophar implies that the spoils of the wicked will not only be short-lived, but may turn into a source of anxiety. In a broader sense, this verse illustrates that temporary riches cannot provide permanent fulfillment. It echoes the teaching that material wealth without righteous living cannot satisfy the deepest needs of the human heart (Luke 12:15).
Furthermore, “As to the riches of his trading, He cannot even enjoy them.” (Job 20:18) points to the frustration and emptiness that greets those who misplace their trust in material success. Zophar’s message is reminiscent of Jesus’ warning against hoarding earthly treasure, reminding believers to store up treasures in heaven where lasting joys are found (Matthew 6:19-20). Here, wealth gained through sinful pursuits or with a heart devoid of godliness carries a hidden weight of guilt and spiritual emptiness, preventing any lasting enjoyment of worldly gains.