Job 18:20

Commentary on Job 18:20 (KJV)

Job 18:20 is a powerful statement from Bildad the Shuhite, delivered during his second speech to Job. In this verse, Bildad continues his argument that the wicked inevitably face catastrophic and memorable judgment. He asserts that the downfall of such a person will be so profound that it will horrify both those who witnessed it and those who hear of it later.

Context

This verse is situated within the "wisdom literature" of the Old Testament, specifically within the book of Job, which grapples with the profound question of suffering and divine justice. Bildad, one of Job's three friends, is attempting to convince Job that his immense suffering is a direct consequence of his sin and wickedness. Throughout chapters 8 and 18, Bildad paints a grim picture of the fate of the wicked, often echoing traditional views of divine retribution. He believes that God's justice is always evident and immediate, and that the wicked are utterly consumed by their transgressions. This perspective is a core part of the debate between Job and his friends, as Job maintains his innocence while enduring inexplicable pain. For more on Bildad's perspective, see Job 8:11-19, where he first lays out his arguments.

Key Themes

• Consequences of Wickedness: The primary theme is the severe and public retribution that Bildad believes awaits the wicked. Their downfall is not private but serves as a shocking spectacle.
• Lasting Impact of Judgment: The verse emphasizes that the judgment on the wicked affects not only contemporaries but also future generations. "They that come after [him] shall be astonied at his day" speaks to the enduring legacy of terror associated with such a fate.
• Fear and Astonishment: Both "astonied" and "affrighted" highlight the intense emotional reactions to the wicked person's demise. It's a display of divine power that instills awe and dread.
• Bildad's Theology of Retribution: This verse perfectly encapsulates Bildad's rigid view that suffering is always a direct result of sin, a perspective that the book of Job ultimately challenges regarding Job's specific situation.

Linguistic Insights

• "astonied": This King James Version term means to be greatly astonished, filled with wonder, dread, or amazement, often implying shock or awe. It suggests a profound and unsettling impact on observers.
• "affrighted": Means to be filled with fright or terror. The parallel structure ("astonied... as they that went before were affrighted") emphasizes that the reaction to the wicked's downfall is consistent across time – past generations were terrified, and future generations will be shocked.
• "his day": Refers to the day of his downfall, destruction, or judgment. It signifies the culmination of his wicked life.

Strategic Cross-References

Bildad's sentiments about the fate of the wicked are echoed in various parts of the Old Testament, particularly in wisdom literature, though often with a more nuanced understanding of God's justice. For example, the book of Proverbs frequently describes the destruction that awaits those who choose a path of evil: "The way of the LORD is strength to the upright: but destruction shall be to the workers of iniquity" (Proverbs 10:29). Similarly, Psalm 37:35-36 speaks of the wicked flourishing for a time, only to vanish.

Practical Application

While Bildad's application of this principle to Job was flawed, the general truth that actions have consequences remains vital. This verse serves as a powerful reminder:

1. The Seriousness of Sin: It underscores that a life lived in persistent wickedness can lead to profound and far-reaching negative outcomes, impacting not only the individual but also their legacy and the perceptions of others.
2. Divine Justice (Ultimately): Even if not always immediate or understood by human logic, the Bible consistently teaches that God is just and that true righteousness will ultimately prevail, while wickedness will face its reckoning.
3. Living with Integrity: The verse implicitly encourages a life of integrity and righteousness, not just to avoid negative consequences, but because it aligns with God's character and purposes.