Job 20:23
When he is about to fill his belly, God shall cast the fury of his wrath upon him, and shall rain it upon him while he is eating.
Job 20:23 · King James Version
Meaning
The meaning of the verse 'When he is about to fill his belly, God shall cast the fury of his wrath upon him, and shall reign it upon him while he is eating' can be understood in the context of consequences for sin and disobedience. In this passage, it is illustrating the idea that when someone is indulging in their own desires and pleasures, they may be met with divine punishment. The act of filling one's belly can symbolize a moment of satisfaction or contentment, but in this case, it is followed by God's wrath being unleashed. This serves as a reminder that even in moments of enjoyment, one should not forget about their moral and spiritual obligations. The imagery of God raining down his wrath while the person is eating emphasizes the sudden and powerful nature of divine judgment, which can come unexpectedly and disrupt even the most mundane activities. Ultimately, this verse highlights the importance of being mindful of one's actions and the need for repentance and humility in the face of God's authority.
Theological Overview
In this verse, the phrase "When he is about to fill his belly" refers to a person who is indulging in excess, seemingly satisfying their desires. However, the following phrase "God shall cast the fury of his wrath upon him" suggests a sudden and intense retribution from God. This can be seen as a warning against gluttony and self-indulgence, reminding us that God sees our actions and will hold us accountable for them. The use of the word "cast" demonstrates the power and immediacy of God's response to such behavior. Additionally, the image of God raining down his wrath while the person is eating emphasizes the inevitability of divine judgment, even in the midst of worldly pleasures. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of moderation and the consequences of giving in to sinful desires. It encourages us to seek righteousness and avoid overindulgence in order to avoid the wrath of God.
Job 20:23 in other translations
American Standard Version
When he is about to fill his belly, [God] will cast the fierceness of his wrath upon him, And will rain it upon him while he is eating.
World English Bible
When he is about to fill his belly, God will cast the fierceness of his wrath on him. It will rain on him while he is eating.
Douay-Rheims
May his belly be filled, that God may send forth the wrath of his indignation upon him, and rain down his war upon him.
Geneva Bible (1599)
He shall be about to fill his belly, but God shall sende vpon him his fierce wrath, and shall cause to rayne vpon him, euen vpon his meate.