Job 20:14
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Job 20:14
14 Yet his meat in his bowels is turned, it is the gall of asps within him.
Chapter Context
Job 20 is a wisdom dialogue chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of covenant, hope, wisdom. 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 provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. 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 20:14
14 Yet his meat in his bowels is turned, it is the gall of asps within him.
Analysis
Sin becomes poison: 'Yet his meat is turned in his bowels, it is the gall of asps within him.' What tasted sweet becomes poison internally. The imagery of transformation—meat turning to gall (bitter poison) in bowels—depicts sin's ultimate effects. Asp venom represents deadly toxicity. This principle (sin's pleasure gives way to destruction) is true but Zophar misapplies it, assuming all suffering indicates such self-poisoning.
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern texts recognized snake venom's deadliness. The asp (cobra) represented particular danger. Wisdom literature used poisoning metaphors for sin's effects (Proverbs 23:32 describes wine as biting like serpent).
Reflection
- How does sin that initially appealed later poison us?
- What is the difference between suffering from sin's consequences versus suffering for other reasons?
- How does recognizing sin's poisonous effects motivate holiness without producing legalism?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Romans 3:13