← Back to Search

Job 20:5

Made Simple — Modern English Translation

Translated by Verse Made Simple Editorial
KJV ORIGINAL
That the triumphing of the wicked is short, and the joy of the hypocrite but for a moment?
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE

That the victory celebration of evil people doesn't last long, and the happiness of fake, two-faced people only lasts for a moment?

⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE

This verse is saying that when bad people seem to be winning or celebrating, it won't last - their success and happiness are only temporary.

📚 Historical Context

In the Book of Job, which is set in the ancient Near East during the patriarchal era, Job is engaged in a dialogue with his friends about his unexplained suffering. Zophar, one of Job's comforters, speaks in Chapter 20 to defend the idea that the wicked experience only brief success, drawing from common wisdom traditions of the time. This reflects the broader biblical narrative of divine retribution, where God ensures that evil does not go unpunished.

Ask the AI Assistant

Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.

Share or Save