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
This phrase suggests the fleeting and ephemeral nature of the wicked's prosperity. In biblical context, dreams often symbolize things that are temporary or insubstantial (Psalm 73:20). The imagery of flying away emphasizes the suddenness and complete disappearance of the wicked's influence and wealth. This reflects the broader biblical theme that earthly riches and power are transient (Proverbs 23:5). The use of "dream" also connects to the idea that what seems real and substantial in the moment can quickly vanish upon waking, much like the temporary success of the unrighteous.

never to be found
This part of the verse underscores the finality of the wicked's downfall. In the cultural context of the ancient Near East, being forgotten or having no lasting legacy was considered a severe misfortune. The Bible often contrasts the fate of the wicked with the righteous, who are remembered and honored (Proverbs 10:7). The phrase implies a complete erasure from memory and history, aligning with the biblical principle that only what is done for God endures (1 Corinthians 3:12-15).

he will be chased away like a vision in the night
The imagery of being "chased away" suggests divine judgment and the active removal of the wicked from their place of prominence. Visions in the night, like dreams, are transient and often carry messages of warning or revelation (Daniel 2:19). This phrase may imply that the wicked's removal is both inevitable and divinely orchestrated. The night symbolizes darkness and uncertainty, reinforcing the idea that the wicked's apparent success is illusory and destined to vanish. This aligns with the biblical theme of light overcoming darkness (John 1:5), where the righteous ultimately prevail through God's justice.

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.