King James Version

What Does Job 20:19 Mean?

“Because he hath oppressed and hath forsaken the poor; because he hath violently taken away an house which he builded not; oppressed: Heb. crushed”

Context

He shall not see the rivers, the floods, the brooks of honey and butter. the floods: or, streaming brooks

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

Because he hath oppressed and hath forsaken the poor; because he hath violently taken away an house which he builded not; oppressed: Heb. crushed

Surely he shall not feel quietness in his belly, he shall not save of that which he desired. feel: Heb. know

There shall none of his meat be left; therefore shall no man look for his goods. none: or, be none left for his meat

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(19) **Because he hath oppressed and forsaken . . .**—For these insinuations there was not a vestige of ground, but Job formally rebuts them in Job 31

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). 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 20:19 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.