King James Version

What Does Job 8:20 Mean?

“Behold, God will not cast away a perfect man, neither will he help the evil doers: help: Heb. take the ungodly by the hand”

Context

If he destroy him from his place, then it shall deny him, saying, I have not seen thee.

Behold, this is the joy of his way, and out of the earth shall others grow.

Behold, God will not cast away a perfect man, neither will he help the evil doers: help: Heb. take the ungodly by the hand

Till he fill thy mouth with laughing, and thy lips with rejoicing. rejoicing: Heb. shouting for joy

They that hate thee shall be clothed with shame; and the dwelling place of the wicked shall come to nought. shall come: Heb. shall not be

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Commentary

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 20-22** Bildad here assures Job, that as he was so he should fare; therefore they concluded, that as he fared so he was. God will not cast away an upright man; he may be cast down for a time, but he shall not be cast away for ever. Sin brings ruin on persons and families. Yet to argue, that Job was an ungodly, wicked man, was unjust and uncharitable. The mistake in these reasonings arose from Job's friends not distinguishing between the present state of trial and discipline, and the future state of final judgment. May we choose the portion, possess the confidence, bear the cross, and die the death of the righteous; and, in the mean time, be careful neither to wound others by rash judgments, nor to distress ourselves needlessly about the opinions of our fellow-creatures.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714). 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 8:20 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.