Old Testament
Job 24:20
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The womb shall forget him. The worm shall feed sweetly on him. He shall be remembered no more, and wickedness shall be broken like a tree.
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The womb shall forget him; the worm shall feed sweetly on him; he shall be no more remembered; and wickedness shall be broken as a tree.
What Job 24:20 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Job 24:20, the verse reflects on the fate of the wicked after death. It suggests that once a person dies, they are forgotten, much like a child who is no longer remembered by their mother. The imagery of worms feeding on the body emphasizes the decay and finality of death. The phrase 'wickedness shall be broken like a tree' indicates that evil will ultimately be destroyed, just as a tree can be cut down. This verse serves as a reminder of the transient nature of life and the consequences of one's actions. It highlights the inevitability of death and the idea that a life lived in wickedness will not be remembered positively. The overall message is one of justice, suggesting that while the wicked may prosper temporarily, their end is certain and will lead to their ultimate downfall and obscurity.
How to apply Job 24:20 to your life
This verse encourages reflection on how we live our lives. It serves as a reminder to pursue righteousness and avoid wickedness, as our actions have lasting consequences. By focusing on good deeds and positive relationships, we can ensure that our legacy is one of remembrance and honor, rather than being forgotten.
Curated for this public verse page. Job Summary
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Keep studying Job 24:20
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Key themes
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At a Glance — the Book of Job
- Author
- Author unknown; events likely in the patriarchal era
- Written
- Date debated
- Genre
- Wisdom literature
- Original Audience
- All who suffer or question God
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Job 24:20 mean about being forgotten after death?
Job 24:20 suggests that after death, individuals, particularly the wicked, will be forgotten, similar to how a mother may forget a child. This emphasizes the idea that earthly life is temporary and that one's actions during life determine how they are remembered, or if they are remembered at all.
How does the imagery of worms in Job 24:20 relate to death?
The mention of worms feeding on the body in Job 24:20 symbolizes the decay and finality of death. It serves as a stark reminder of the physical reality of death, highlighting that all bodies eventually return to the earth, reinforcing the transient nature of life and the inevitability of mortality.
What does 'wickedness shall be broken like a tree' imply?
The phrase 'wickedness shall be broken like a tree' indicates that evil and wrongdoing will ultimately be destroyed, just as a tree can be cut down. This reflects the biblical theme of justice, suggesting that while wickedness may seem to thrive temporarily, it will eventually face consequences and be eradicated.
How can Job 24:20 inspire us to live righteously?
Job 24:20 serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of our actions. By reflecting on the fate of the wicked, we are encouraged to pursue righteousness and good deeds. Living a life aligned with positive values ensures that we leave a legacy of honor and remembrance, rather than being forgotten.
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