Job 21:20Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

In response to Sophar's earlier remarks about the continuation of these matters since humanity's inception (Job 20:4), Job admonishes him for his lack of understanding of the obvious truths. Job asserts, "You claimed that certain events unfold, yet the contrary occurs as well. Thus, no one should presume to grasp the hidden will of God, through which all things come to fruition. Consequently, I ask: if those individuals are not wicked, why do they face punishment? One is in want while another basks in wealth, despite their shared wrongdoing."

His gaze will witness his own suffering, and let him partake of the fury of the Almighty. If this individual had chosen to acknowledge his sin during his earthly existence, he would not have tasted the wrath of the Most High. Yet, the person who deliberately averts his eyes from his guilt cannot avoid the condemnation that awaits him. Frequently, those who lack concern for eternal punishment still dread the consequences of their wrongdoing in this temporary life. However, some have become so entrenched in wickedness that they fear not even the loss of what they cherish in this world, provided they can fulfill their sinful desires. Therefore, it is noted here regarding the obstinacy of the unrighteous:

Job has ceased to seek solace from his companions; instead, he desires their silence so he can voice his grievances regarding his afflictions to the very end (21:1-6). Their attempts to illustrate how the wicked face punishment after fleeting joy are futile, as numerous instances exist of the wicked who live and die in complete happiness (7-13). They deny Divine Providence (14-15); death's sudden approach does not instill fear in them (16-18), nor are they troubled by the unfortunate outcomes for their descendants (19-21). Who among them can accurately instruct God about the fairness in the allocation of joy and sorrow among humankind (22)? Before God, both the unrighteous and the righteous meet the same demise (23-26).