Definition: Because he hath oppressed [and] hath forsaken the poor; [because] he hath violently taken away an house which he builded not;
Explanation: Okay, letās break down this verse from Job 20:19. Itās a really powerful and complex statement about someone's character. Hereās a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that someone who consistently treats the poor badly and violently ā like taking away their homes ā is truly evil or unworthy of God . Itās a strong condemnation. Let's unpack it word by word: āBecause he hath oppressedā : This means ābecause he has treated unfairlyā or ābecause he has been unkind to others.ā It suggests someone is actively harming or mistreating people. ā[and] hath forsaken the poorā : This highlights a specific action ā leaving others to suffer . Heās not just generally being unkind; heās deliberately choosing to neglect those who are vulnerable. ā[because] he hath violently taken away an house which he builded notā : This is the key part. āBuilded notā means "he didn't build it." It suggests that this person has taken a home ā a place of safety and security ā and removed it from someone else. Putting it all together: The verse paints a picture of someone who is selfish, cruel, and actively causing hardship to those who are less fortunate. Theyāre deliberately taking away what others need and deserve. It's a stark warning about the consequences of wickedness. What does this mean in a broader sense? Moral Criticism: Itās often interpreted as a critique of a leader or someone in power who isnāt just morally wrong, but actively harmful to others. Godās Perspective: The verse suggests that God sees these actions as unacceptable and can be very angry with those who disregard the needs of the vulnerable. Important Note: Job's response to this verse is a key part of the story. Heās essentially arguing that the severity of this action ā the deliberate taking away of a home ā demonstrates a deep moral failing, and itās a sign of Godās judgment. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these points in more detail? Provide context about the story of Job? Give you a related thought or analogy?