Job 20:7

Yet he shall perish for euer, like his owne doung: they which haue seene him, shall say, Where is he? Job 20:7 (KJV)

This verse is part of the response of Job’s friend Zophar, one of the three friends who came to comfort Job in his suffering. Zophar’s words are aimed at describing the fate of the wicked, particularly those who oppress and harm others.

The Wicked and Their Fate:

Zophar begins by referring to an individual, often understood to be a wicked person, using pronouns such as “he” and “his.” He asserts that this person will perish forever, indicating the certainty and finality of the wicked person’s downfall.

A Degrading Comparison:

Zophar then uses a vivid metaphor to illustrate the disgraceful end of the wicked. He compares the wicked person’s fate to his own dung, emphasizing the utter worthlessness and repulsiveness of the final outcome.

Forgotten and Unseen:

Zophar concludes by suggesting that once the wicked person perishes, he will be forgotten and disappear from memory. Those who were aware of his actions will ask, “Where is he?” as if he never existed.

It is important to note that Zophar’s perspective is part of a larger dialogue throughout the Book of Job. The friends attempt to explain Job’s suffering by attributing it to sin, yet their understanding is incomplete, as Job’s suffering has a different purpose and origin, as revealed later in the book.

Overall, Job 20:7 highlights the perceived fate of the wicked and serves as a reminder of the consequences that can befall those who engage in oppressive and harmful behaviour. It also raises questions about the nature of justice and the ultimate judgment of individuals before God.

Remember to read and study the entire Book of Job to gain a comprehensive understanding of its themes, the development of the narrative, and the eventual resolution of Job’s suffering.