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.
He must give back what he worked so hard to get, and he won't be able to keep it for himself. He'll have to pay back according to how much wealth he gained, and he won't find any joy in it.
This verse is saying that ill-gotten gains will eventually have to be returned, and there will be no satisfaction in wealth obtained through wrongdoing.
📚 Historical Context
In the Book of Job, Zophar, one of Job's friends, is delivering a speech to counter Job's complaints about his suffering, arguing that the wicked will face divine punishment for their sins. This verse specifically highlights how those who gain wealth through unjust means will have to return it and find no joy in it, reflecting the ancient Near Eastern belief in God's enforcement of moral order. The Book of Job, set in a patriarchal era, explores themes of suffering and divine justice through poetic dialogues.
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.