Definition: They are destroyed from morning to evening: they perish for ever without any regarding [it].
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Job 4:20. It’s a really powerful and thought-provoking statement about life and its eventual fate. Here's an explanation in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse essentially says that things will end – they will be destroyed or lost – and it will happen quickly, without any real consequence. It’s a sense of inevitable decline and ending. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “They are destroyed from morning to evening” : This refers to the natural cycle of life: the beginning (morning) and the end (evening). Things always move through these stages. It’s a general statement about the progression of time. “They perish for ever without any regarding [it]” : This is where it gets really heavy. "Regarding" means “about” or “regarding.” So, this part says that things will be destroyed forever . More specifically, they will be lost completely – not just temporarily, but permanently. There’s no hope of recovery or being remembered for anything after this. Possible Interpretations (and why it's complex): This verse is often interpreted in a few ways, and it’s important to note that theologians have debated its meaning for centuries: Literal Destruction: Some believe it refers to literal physical destruction – like the end of the universe or a specific event. Moral/Spiritual Destruction: More commonly, it suggests that human life, our efforts, our achievements, and even our relationships will ultimately be lost without lasting meaning or impact. It speaks to the vanity of human ambition and the fleeting nature of things. Why it's a powerful message: The verse is often used as a reminder of: The impermanence of life: It emphasizes that everything changes, and nothing lasts forever. The importance of living wisely: It suggests we should appreciate what we have because it won’t last. A humbling perspective on our own mortality: Facing this possibility can be unsettling but also encourages us to live more deliberately and with gratitude. In short, Job 4:20 is a stark warning about the inevitable end of all things, suggesting that our efforts are ultimately meaningless without lasting significance. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in a different way? Discuss some of the theological interpretations of it? Give you a related passage from the Bible?