Definition: The wicked man travaileth with pain all [his] days, and the number of years is hidden to the oppressor.
Explanation: Okay, letās break down this verse from Job 15:20. Itās a pretty profound statement about suffering and the injustice of it. Here's an explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes someone experiencing intense pain and hardship throughout their entire life, and that pain is essentially hidden or unknown to the person who is inflicting it. Letās unpack it piece by piece: "The wicked man travaileth..." : āTravailethā means āstrugglesā or āendures.ā This refers to a malevolent, often cruel, individual. It suggests someone actively trying to cause harm or distress. "...all his days..." : "All his days" means throughout their entire life. Itās not just a few bad days; it's the whole duration of their existence. "...and the number of years is hidden to the oppressor." : This is the crucial part. āOppressorā refers to someone who deliberately harms or causes suffering. The verse says that the person being harmed doesnāt know how long they will suffer. It's a secret, a hidden pain. So, what does this mean practically? It suggests that suffering isn't always immediately obvious. Sometimes the impact of someoneās actions can be felt for years, even decades, and we donāt realize it until itās too late or becomes unbearable. It highlights the idea that sometimes the consequences of our actions arenāt immediately apparent. Context & Significance: Job is facing immense suffering ā losing his wealth, his family, and ultimately, his reputation. This verse is a reflection on the injustice of the world. The Bible often uses this imagery to explore themes like: The nature of suffering: It shows that suffering isn't always random or deserved. Justice and righteousness: It points out that those who cause harm should be held accountable for their actions. Godās perspective: It emphasizes that God is aware of all things, even the deepest pain, and may have a plan beyond our comprehension. In short, the verse speaks to the idea that suffering can last a long time, and it's often hidden from those who inflict it. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific biblical story or theme?