Job 20:20

Job 20:20 (KJV) states, "Surely he shall not feel quietness in his belly, he shall not save of that which he desired." This verse is part of Zophar's second speech to Job, where he dogmatically asserts the inevitable downfall and misery of the wicked.

Context

Zophar the Naamathite is one of Job's three friends who come to comfort him, yet ultimately condemn him, believing his suffering is a direct result of his sin. In Job chapter 20, Zophar delivers a harsh discourse on the fate of the wicked. He argues that while the wicked may prosper for a time, their triumph is short-lived, and they will ultimately face severe divine judgment and lose all they have gained. This particular verse emphasizes the internal and external consequences of their unrighteousness, portraying a life devoid of true peace and lasting satisfaction. Zophar's perspective, like that of Job's other friends, fails to grasp the complex nature of suffering and God's sovereignty, which is a central theme throughout the Book of Job.

Key Themes and Messages

• Absence of Inner Peace: The phrase "he shall not feel quietness in his belly" speaks to an enduring state of restlessness and inner turmoil for the wicked. Despite any outward success, their conscience is troubled, and they lack true tranquility. This contrasts sharply with the peace that Jesus offers, which the world cannot give.
• Futility of Ill-Gotten Gain: "He shall not save of that which he desired" highlights the transient and ultimately unsatisfying nature of wealth or possessions acquired through unrighteous means or pursued with selfish ambition. Whatever they accumulate, they cannot truly preserve or enjoy it, indicating that their desires will ultimately betray them. This theme resonates with warnings about the vanity of earthly treasures.
• Divine Retribution (Zophar's View): From Zophar's perspective, this verse is a declaration of divine justice, where the wicked are punished for their actions, losing their material gains and their inner peace. While the Bible affirms God's justice, Zophar's application here is flawed because he assumes Job's suffering is a direct punishment for specific sins.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "quietness" is sheqeṭ (שֶׁקֶט), meaning "quiet, rest, tranquility." Its absence implies constant agitation or anxiety. The term "belly" (בֶּטֶן - beṭen) in ancient Hebrew thought often referred to the innermost being, the seat of emotions, thoughts, and desires, not merely the physical stomach. Thus, not feeling quietness in the belly signifies a deep-seated lack of contentment and inner peace, often due to an insatiable greed or guilt.

Practical Application

Job 20:20 serves as a powerful reminder that true contentment and security do not come from material possessions or selfish pursuits, especially those gained through unrighteousness. Chasing after fleeting desires without regard for God's ways often leads to a life marked by anxiety, dissatisfaction, and an inability to truly enjoy what one has. This verse encourages introspection: are our desires leading us to inner peace or constant agitation? It underscores the biblical principle that genuine peace comes from a right relationship with God and a life lived according to His wisdom, rather than the accumulation of worldly goods or the fulfillment of every earthly desire.