Comentario sobre Job 15:1

Towards the end of his oration, Job had raised the second question on the agenda, namely, that concerning the prosperity of the wicked. Since this subject had not been addressed by his companions in their replies to the question of the suffering of the wicked, the debaters return for a second round in which each presents his opinion regarding this new question.

Eliphaz is of the opinion that the prosperity of the wicked is illusory: it is not true prosperity. Though, at first sight, the wicked person may appear successful, acquiring wealth, strength and possessions, his heart is ever full of fear. He feels at all times as if pursued by the sword (Leviticus 26:37), as though hard times were coming; as if destitution and poverty (Psalms 82:3) were about to overtaken him. So much so, that despite his wealth he has no pleasure from it nor has any peace of mind. And this is one of God’s punishments for doing wrong in His eyes and provoking Him to anger (Deuteronomy 4:25). He [God] confuses the wicked person's mind, his thoughts and his imagination with fear and trembling. For the essence of prosperity is peace of mind, an unworried spirit and a joyful heart; better a dry crust and tranquility with it (Proverbs 17:1).