Job 20:19

Job 20:19 is part of Zophar's third and final speech to Job, where he continues to articulate the traditional view of divine retribution. Zophar insists that the wicked, despite temporary prosperity, will inevitably suffer for their sins. This verse specifically lists some of the egregious actions that bring about such judgment.

Context

In the book of Job, Zophar, like Eliphaz and Bildad, operates under the assumption that suffering is a direct consequence of sin. He believes Job's calamities must be due to some hidden wickedness. In this passage, Zophar paints a vivid picture of the wicked man's character and eventual downfall, aiming to convince Job of his supposed guilt. This verse outlines the specific injustices that, in Zophar's view, guarantee divine punishment for the unrighteous, emphasizing their exploitation of the vulnerable and their unlawful acquisition of property.

Key Themes

• Social Injustice: The verse sharply condemns the exploitation of the disadvantaged. The phrase "hath oppressed [and] hath forsaken the poor" highlights a double offense: active oppression and passive neglect of those in need. This speaks to a fundamental principle of biblical justice, which consistently advocates for the vulnerable, as seen in Proverbs 14:31.
• Unjust Gain and Covetousness: "Violently taken away an house which he builded not" points to the sin of covetousness and unlawful acquisition of property. This violates foundational moral laws, such as the Eighth Commandment against stealing, and reflects a disregard for others' rights and labor (Micah 2:2).
• Divine Retribution: Zophar's entire argument rests on the certainty of God's judgment against such wickedness. He asserts that the prosperity gained through such means is fleeting and will ultimately lead to ruin, a common theme in Old Testament wisdom literature concerning the fate of the unrighteous.

Linguistic Insights

• The Hebrew word for "oppressed," 'ashaq (עָשַׁק), implies active wrongdoing, often involving extortion, fraud, or violent exploitation of the weaker party.
• "Forsaken," 'azab (עָזַב), suggests abandonment or neglect, a failure to uphold one's responsibility to care for the poor.
• "Violently taken away," gazal (גָּזַל), denotes seizing by force or robbery, emphasizing the aggressive and unlawful nature of the acquisition. These terms collectively paint a picture of a person who not only neglects their duty but actively harms others for personal gain.

Practical Application

While Zophar's theology of suffering was ultimately flawed in its application to Job, the specific sins he condemns in this verse remain timeless moral failings. Today, this verse serves as a powerful reminder for individuals and societies:

• To champion social justice and advocate for the poor and marginalized.
• To practice ethical business and personal conduct, ensuring that wealth or property is acquired justly and honestly.
• To recognize that actions of greed, exploitation, and injustice have significant consequences, not just in this life but in terms of divine accountability. The call to "seek justice, relieve the oppressed" remains a core biblical mandate.