King James Version
What Does Job 20:16 Mean?
“He shall suck the poison of asps: the viper's tongue shall slay him.”
Context
14
Yet his meat in his bowels is turned, it is the gall of asps within him.
15
He hath swallowed down riches, and he shall vomit them up again: God shall cast them out of his belly.
16
He shall suck the poison of asps: the viper's tongue shall slay him.
17
He shall not see the rivers, the floods, the brooks of honey and butter. the floods: or, streaming brooks
18
That which he laboured for shall he restore, and shall not swallow it down: according to his substance shall the restitution be, and he shall not rejoice therein. his: Heb. the substance of his exchange
Commentary
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary**16. fire of God--**Hebraism for "a mighty fire"; as "cedars of God"--"lofty cedars" [Psa 80:10]. Not lightning, which would not consume all the sheep and servants. Umbreit understands it of the burning wind of Arabia, called by the Turks "wind of poison." "The prince of the power of the air" [Ep 2:2] is permitted to have control over such destructive agents.
Robert Jamieson, A.R. Fausset, David Brown. Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Job. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Job 20:16 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Job 20:16
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge