Job 20:12
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Job 20:12
12 Though wickedness be sweet in his mouth, though he hide it under his tongue;
Chapter Context
Job 20 is a wisdom dialogue chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of grace, faith, salvation. Written during the patriarchal period (literary composition later), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Ancient wisdom traditions often wrestled with the problem of suffering and divine justice.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-29: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Job and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Job 20:12
12 Though wickedness be sweet in his mouth, though he hide it under his tongue;
Analysis
'Though wickedness be sweet in his mouth, though he hide it under his tongue.' Zophar describes how the wicked savor sin: 'wickedness' (רָעָה, ra'ah) is 'sweet' (יַמְתִּיק, yamtiq) in his mouth, hidden under his tongue (תַּחַת לְשׁוֹנוֹ, tachat leshono). The imagery: rolling sin like a delicacy on the palate. This echoes Proverbs 9:17—'stolen waters are sweet.' Sin does offer temporary pleasure (Hebrews 11:25), which makes it tempting. Zophar's theology is accurate: people do enjoy sin momentarily. His application to Job is unfounded: assuming Job secretly savors wickedness. Without evidence, this is slander. The Reformed understanding of indwelling sin acknowledges ongoing struggle without assuming specific secret wickedness in others.
Historical Context
Ancient peoples used taste metaphors for moral experiences. Zophar employs this to suggest Job secretly enjoys hidden sins, using orthodox theology to make unproven accusations.
Reflection
- How do we acknowledge sin's temporary pleasure without excusing it or falsely accusing others?
- What is the difference between teaching general truth about sin and making specific accusations?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Job 15:16, Genesis 3:6, Psalms 10:7, Proverbs 20:17, Ecclesiastes 11:9