What does Job 12:20 mean?

Job 12:20 highlights themes such as understanding, speech, trust when read in context.

How should I apply Job 12:20 today?

Read the surrounding passage, compare related cross references, and turn the verse into a short prayer and concrete action.

He removeth away the speech of the trusty, and taketh away the understanding of the aged.

18He looseth the bond of kings, and girdeth their loins with a girdle.

19He leadeth princes away spoiled, and overthroweth the mighty.

20He removeth away the speech of the trusty, and taketh away the understanding of the aged.

21He poureth contempt upon princes, and weakeneth the strength of the mighty.

22He discovereth deep things out of darkness, and bringeth out to light the shadow of death.

understandingspeechtrust

Proverbs 16:31
Contrasts the wisdom of age with God's ability to remove understanding.
1 Corinthians 1:19
Paul quotes Isaiah, indicating God's action against human wisdom.
Job 5:12
Both verses discuss God's ability to thwart the plans of the wise.