Job 20:8

He will fly away like a dream, never to be found; he will be chased away like a vision in the night.

Study Bible

He will fly away like a dream
The imagery of flying away like a dream suggests the fleeting and ephemeral nature of human life and accomplishments. In the Hebrew context, dreams were often seen as insubstantial and transient, much like a vapor that disappears with the morning light. This phrase underscores the idea that the wicked, despite their temporary success, will ultimately vanish without a trace. The Hebrew word for "dream" (חֲלוֹם, chalom) often conveys the notion of something that is not grounded in reality, emphasizing the illusory nature of the wicked's prosperity.

and they will not find him
This phrase highlights the ultimate disappearance and irretrievability of the wicked. In the ancient Near Eastern context, being forgotten or unfindable was a fate worse than death, as it implied a complete erasure from memory and history. The use of "they" suggests that others, perhaps those who once envied or feared the wicked, will search in vain for any trace of them. This serves as a sobering reminder of the futility of earthly pursuits that are not rooted in righteousness.

he will be chased away
The concept of being "chased away" implies a forceful removal or expulsion. In the Hebrew, the verb used here (יְנֻדּוּ, yenuddu) can also mean to wander or to be driven away, often used in the context of exile or banishment. This reflects the divine judgment that comes upon the wicked, as they are not only forgotten but actively removed from their place of prominence. It is a vivid depiction of the consequences of living a life contrary to God's will.

like a vision in the night
Visions in the night, much like dreams, are transient and often mysterious. In biblical times, night visions were sometimes considered messages from God, but they were also seen as fleeting and difficult to grasp. The comparison to a night vision suggests that the wicked's presence and influence are temporary and will dissipate with the coming of the light, symbolizing truth and divine justice. This phrase reinforces the theme of impermanence and the ultimate triumph of God's righteousness over human wickedness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Zophar the Naamathite
One of Job's three friends who comes to comfort him. Zophar is known for his harsh and direct approach, often emphasizing God's justice and the fate of the wicked.

2. Job
The central figure of the Book of Job, a man known for his righteousness and suffering. Job's account is a profound exploration of faith, suffering, and divine justice.

3. The Vision of the Night
A metaphor used by Zophar to describe the fleeting nature of the wicked's prosperity. It symbolizes something that is temporary and insubstantial.

Teaching Points

The Fleeting Nature of Wickedness
Zophar's imagery of dreams and visions highlights the temporary nature of the wicked's success. In our lives, we should remember that material prosperity without righteousness is ultimately fleeting.

God's Justice is Inevitable
While the wicked may seem to prosper temporarily, God's justice will prevail. This should encourage believers to remain steadfast in righteousness, trusting in God's ultimate plan.

The Importance of Eternal Perspective
Like a dream that vanishes, earthly achievements are temporary. Christians are called to focus on eternal values and treasures in heaven rather than temporary gains.

Trust in God's Timing
Zophar's words remind us that God's timing is perfect. We may not see immediate justice, but we can trust that God will act according to His perfect will.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Zophar's description of the wicked's fate in Job 20:8 challenge our understanding of success and prosperity?

2. In what ways can we apply the concept of the fleeting nature of life to our daily decisions and priorities?

3. How does the imagery of dreams and visions in Job 20:8 compare to other biblical passages that discuss the brevity of life?

4. What are some practical ways we can maintain an eternal perspective in a world focused on temporary achievements?

5. How can we find comfort in God's justice when we see the wicked prospering around us?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 73
This psalm reflects on the prosperity of the wicked and the ultimate justice of God, similar to Zophar's assertions about the temporary success of the wicked.

James 4:14
This verse speaks about the brevity of life, comparing it to a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes, echoing the imagery of fleeting dreams and visions.

Proverbs 10:27
This proverb contrasts the longevity of the righteous with the short-lived success of the wicked, reinforcing the theme of divine justice.