Job 20:19 - For he has oppressed and forsaken the poor. He has violently taken away a house, and he shall not build it up.

Generated Verse: Job 20:19

What does "Job 20:19" mean?


Job 20:19, spoken by Zophar the Naamathite, is part of his second speech accusing Job of wickedness. He's describing the fate of the wicked man in general, not specifically accusing Job of these actions. Let's break it down:

"For he has oppressed and forsaken the poor:" This refers to someone who mistreats and abandons vulnerable people in society. They take advantage of those who have little to no resources or power. They disregard their needs and well-being.

"He has violently taken away a house:" This describes someone who steals or seizes property from others, likely through force, intimidation, or unjust legal maneuvers. This could refer to literal houses, but it could also be a metaphor for taking away someone's livelihood or security.

"and he shall not build it up." This is a consequence for the wicked man's actions. He might acquire wealth or property unjustly, but his success will be short-lived. He won't be able to establish a lasting legacy or a secure future for himself or his family. The house he takes may crumble, or he might lack the ability to enjoy his ill-gotten gains. This can be interpreted in several ways:

Lack of prosperity: His success is temporary and will not lead to long-term wealth or stability.
Divine judgment: God will not bless his endeavors because they are built on injustice.
Inner turmoil: He will not find peace or fulfillment, even with material possessions. The guilt of his actions will prevent him from truly building a good life.

In the context of the Book of Job:

Zophar and the other friends believe that Job is suffering because he is a wicked man who has committed terrible sins. This verse is part of their argument that Job's suffering is a just punishment for his wrongdoings. However, the book of Job ultimately reveals that this simplistic cause-and-effect relationship between sin and suffering is not always true. Job is righteous, yet he suffers greatly, challenging the traditional understanding of divine justice.

So, the verse describes the fate of a wicked person who oppresses the poor and seizes their property. They may acquire wealth, but they will not be able to establish a lasting legacy or find true happiness because their actions are built on injustice.