Job 6:20
They were confounded because they had hoped; they came thither, and were ashamed.
Original Language Analysis
בֹּ֥שׁוּ
They were confounded
H954
בֹּ֥שׁוּ
They were confounded
Strong's:
H954
Word #:
1 of 6
properly, to pale, i.e., by implication to be ashamed; also (by implication) to be disappointed or delayed
כִּֽי
H3588
כִּֽי
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
2 of 6
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
בָטָ֑ח
because they had hoped
H982
בָטָ֑ח
because they had hoped
Strong's:
H982
Word #:
3 of 6
properly, to hie for refuge (but not so precipitately as h2620); figuratively, to trust, be confident or sure
Historical Context
Shame in ancient Near Eastern culture was particularly associated with misplaced confidence that led to failure. The caravans' shame would be compounded by their previous confidence in knowing where water could be found.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you process the shame and disappointment when human help fails?
- What distinguishes hope in God that never disappoints from misplaced hope in human helpers?
Analysis & Commentary
Job concludes: 'They were confounded because they had hoped: they came thither, and were ashamed.' The Hebrew 'bosh' (confounded/ashamed) and 'chapher' (ashamed/disappointed) emphasize the humiliation of misplaced hope. The caravans' confidence in the streams led to deadly disappointment. Job feels similarly about his friends—he hoped in their comfort but received accusations instead. This warns against putting ultimate hope in human counsel rather than God, who never disappoints those who hope in Him (Romans 5:5).