Job 20:5

For a moment. This verse explains Zophar’s solution of the problem of the prosperity of the wicked. He admits that they may shout with triumph, but the joy is momentary. In part, Zophar is right; but his argument is weak in that he fails to recognize that a sinner may seem to triumph all through his mortal life (see Ps. 37:35, 36; 73:1-17). The shortness of the triumph of the wicked is one of the main topics of dispute between Job and his opponents. Eliphaz and Bildad have both maintained the same view as Zophar (Job 4:8-11; 5:3-5; 8:11-19; 15:21, 29). Job is differently convinced. He has seen the wicked “live, become old, . . . mighty in power” (ch. 21:7). He has seen them “spend their days in wealth, and in a moment go down to the grave” (ch. 21:13). He is not ready to admit the generalizations of his friends. Job shows greater insight than his friends — an insight born of suffering.