Job 20:3Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Thus, Sophar expresses his outrage, feeling troubled by thoughts, as he perceives your claim that you endure such hardships from God, the Righteous Judge, without justification, for it is impossible to anticipate any wrongdoing from the Almighty. I have heard a reproach that brings me deep shame, and my spirit will respond on my behalf. I will consider your criticism and be admonished, for I must not rebuke one who has suffered greatly. It is granted to me by God to provide a response that is entirely just: you could not have faced such punishment from Him had I not been aware of your transgressions and my own multitude of faults.

The admonition that you deliver reaches my ears, and the essence of my comprehension shall respond to you. Job 20:3. It is as though he clearly asserts, "I do hear your statements, but I evaluate their validity through the depth of my understanding." Those who disregard the instruction of their mentor do so not to gain enlightenment or adhere to wise counsel, but rather to provoke division and facilitate their critique of what has been communicated. Previously, he may have expressed his thoughts with some caution, yet now he unleashes a direct attack against the esteemed figure as he continues with:

Job's words have provoked Sophar, who can no longer hold his tongue. Once again, Sophar demonstrates that wickedness ultimately leads to destruction, and despite any momentary joy that the ungodly may experience, it fades like a fleeting vision. What brings pleasure to the wicked, such as wealth, will eventually become a source of bitterness for them. For their transgressions and the oppression of the vulnerable, calamity will surely strike. This outcome is both inevitable and dreadful.