Job 6:20

20 They are distressed, because they had been confident; they arrive there, only to be disappointed.

Job 6:20 in Other Translations

KJV
20 They were confounded because they had hoped; they came thither, and were ashamed.
ESV
20 They are ashamed because they were confident; they come there and are disappointed.
NLT
20 They count on it but are disappointed. When they arrive, their hopes are dashed.
MSG
20 They arrive so confident - but what a disappointment! They get there, and their faces fall!
CSB
20 They are ashamed because they had been confident [of finding water]. When they arrive there, they are frustrated.

Job 6:20 Meaning and Commentary

Job 6:20

And they were confounded because they had hoped
When they came to the places where they hoped to find water, finding none were ashamed of their vain hope, and reflected upon themselves for being so foolish as to raise their expectations upon such a groundless surmise:

they came thither, and were ashamed;
which is the same thing expressed in different words; and aptly enough describes Job's disappointment in not meeting with that relief and comfort he expected from his friends, to whom he makes application of all this in the following words.

Job 6:20 In-Context

18 Caravans turn aside from their routes; they go off into the wasteland and perish.
19 The caravans of Tema look for water, the traveling merchants of Sheba look in hope.
20 They are distressed, because they had been confident; they arrive there, only to be disappointed.
21 Now you too have proved to be of no help; you see something dreadful and are afraid.
22 Have I ever said, ‘Give something on my behalf, pay a ransom for me from your wealth,

Cross References 1

  • 1. Jeremiah 14:3; Joel 1:11
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