Job 20:5

Authorized King James Version

That the triumphing of the wicked is short, and the joy of the hypocrite but for a moment?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
כִּ֤י
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#2
רִנְנַ֣ת
That the triumphing
a shout (for joy)
#3
רְ֭שָׁעִים
of the wicked
morally wrong; concretely, an (actively) bad person
#4
מִקָּר֑וֹב
is short
near (in place, kindred or time)
#5
וְשִׂמְחַ֖ת
and the joy
blithesomeness or glee, (religious or festival)
#6
חָנֵ֣ף
of the hypocrite
soiled (i.e., with sin), impious
#7
עֲדֵי
as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)
#8
רָֽגַע׃
but for a moment
a wink (of the eyes), i.e., a very short space of time

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Job Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection