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Job 20:6 KJV
Though his excellency mount up to the heavens, and his head reach unto the clouds;
Job 20:6 Bible Commentary
Commentary on Job 20:6
Job 20:6 states: "Though his excellency mount up to the heavens, and his head reach unto the clouds;
Introduction
This verse is a part of Zophar’s second speech, a response to Job’s previous lamentations about his suffering. Zophar speaks of the fate of the wicked and the transient nature of their success and pride. This commentary seeks to provide insights from significant public domain theologians to illuminate the meaning of this verse.
Overview of Zophar's Argument
Zophar represents one of Job's three friends who are attempting to understand the reasoning behind Job's suffering. Throughout his speeches, he espouses a retributive theology—that the wicked will invariably suffer, and the righteous will ultimately be rewarded. This verse emphasizes the rise of the wicked, illustrated by their occupied positions of power and arrogance.
Matthew Henry's Perspective
Matthew Henry elaborates on the implications of pride and temporary success. He asserts that even when the wicked appear to prosper, their glory is fleeting. Specifically, he notes:
- Excellency in the World: Zophar indicates that the height of the wicked's pride can reach the heavens, symbolizing their overreaching ambition.
- Transitory State: Henry emphasizes that such elevation is temporary, and ultimately, those who boast in their achievements without moral grounding will face judgment.
- Divine Judgment: He reminds us that God is aware of all, and though the wicked may appear sophisticated, they remain under His watchful eye, destined for destruction.
Albert Barnes' Insights
In his commentary, Barnes provides a broader understanding of the socio-political context surrounding Job. He interprets the verse as a reflection on the nature of sin and its consequences. Significant points include:
- Rising High: The expression 'mount up to the heavens' represents the arrogance of the wicked, who elevate themselves without regard to divine principles.
- Moral Fallout: Barnes underlines that the moral failure of the wicked ultimately leads to their ruin, despite their temporary achievements.
- Hope for the Righteous: He further encourages that for the righteous, despite their current trials, there exists a promise of restoration and vindication.
Adam Clarke's Analysis
Adam Clarke provides a more detailed examination of the Hebrew terms used in the verse. His insights include:
- Terminology: Clarke discusses the language employed, explaining how 'excellency' refers to the grandeur that the wicked ascribe to themselves, which is illusory and doomed.
- Clouds as Metaphor: He posits that the 'clouds' symbolize high vanity and aspirations that the wicked hold, demonstrating a profound disconnect from reality.
- End of the Wicked: Clarke reiterates that divine retribution is inevitable, highlighting that the heights of arrogance will lead to a fall, aligning with the overarching theme present in the book of Job.
Theological Implications
This verse, while remarking on the apparent success of the wicked, invites deeper theological reflection on the problems of evil and suffering. The insights provided by Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke speak to the transient nature of human exaltation:
- The Sovereignty of God: The overarching message is that God remains in control, irrespective of the circumstances faced by His people.
- The Nature of True Excellency: Real dignity and worth in God’s economy are not measured by earthly success or status but by humility and obedience to God’s will.
- Hope Amidst Suffering: For the pastor or scholar, this passage provides a call for steadfast faith; even in the face of overwhelming adversity, God’s justice and mercy prevail.
Conclusion
Job 20:6 serves as a poignant reminder that the apparent triumphs of the wicked are temporary and serve as precedents for their ultimate judgment. The combined commentary of Henry, Barnes, and Clarke reinforces the idea that while pride may momentarily raise individuals to great heights, it is their final end that defines their legacy. As pastors, students, and scholars reflect upon this text, they are encouraged to look beyond surface realities to understand God's eternal principles and justice.