Job 20:16
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Job 20:16
16 He shall suck the poison of asps: the viper's tongue shall slay him.
Chapter Context
Job 20 is a wisdom dialogue chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of righteousness, salvation, love. 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 offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. 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 20:16
16 He shall suck the poison of asps: the viper's tongue shall slay him.
Analysis
The wicked's gain brings death: 'He shall suck the poison of asps: the viper's tongue shall slay him.' Continuing poison imagery, Zophar depicts the wicked actively consuming poison (sucking asp poison). The viper's tongue (forked tongue associated with deception) brings death. Zophar implies that Job's words (his 'tongue') reveal hidden poison that brings his suffering. This attacks both Job's wealth and his speeches.
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern texts associated serpents with evil, deception, and death (Genesis 3). Wisdom literature used snake imagery for dangerous speech (Psalm 140:3). Zophar combines material and verbal accusations—Job's wealth and words both allegedly poisonous.
Reflection
- How do our words sometimes poison both ourselves and others?
- What is the difference between honest lament and poisonous speech?
- How does the Gospel provide both forgiveness for harmful words and power for edifying speech?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Romans 3:13