1 Moreover the LORD answered Job, and said,
2 Shall he that contendeth with the Almighty instruct [him]? he that reproveth God, let him answer it.
3 Then Job answered the LORD, and said,
4 Behold, I am vile; what shall I answer thee? I will lay mine hand upon my mouth.
5 Once have I spoken; but I will not answer: yea, twice; but I will proceed no further.
6 Then answered the LORD unto Job out of the whirlwind, and said,
7 Gird up thy loins now like a man: I will demand of thee, and declare thou unto me.
8 Wilt thou also disannul my judgment? wilt thou condemn me, that thou mayest be righteous?
9 Hast thou an arm like God? or canst thou thunder with a voice like him?
10 Deck thyself now [with] majesty and excellency; and array thyself with glory and beauty.
11 Cast abroad the rage of thy wrath: and behold every one [that is] proud, and abase him.
12 Look on every one [that is] proud, [and] bring him low; and tread down the wicked in their place.
13 Hide them in the dust together; [and] bind their faces in secret.
14 Then will I also confess unto thee that thine own right hand can save thee.
15 Behold now behemoth, which I made with thee; he eateth grass as an ox.
16 Lo now, his strength [is] in his loins, and his force [is] in the navel of his belly.
17 He moveth his tail like a cedar: the sinews of his stones are wrapped together.
18 His bones [are as] strong pieces of brass; his bones [are] like bars of iron.
19 He [is] the chief of the ways of God: he that made him can make his sword to approach [unto him].
20 Surely the mountains bring him forth food, where all the beasts of the field play.
21 He lieth under the shady trees, in the covert of the reed, and fens.
22 The shady trees cover him [with] their shadow; the willows of the brook compass him about.
23 Behold, he drinketh up a river, [and] hasteth not: he trusteth that he can draw up Jordan into his mouth.
24 He taketh it with his eyes: [his] nose pierceth through snares.
Overview of Job Chapter 40
Job Chapter 40 marks a significant turning point in the Book of Job, as it introduces God’s response to Job’s lamentations and questions regarding his suffering. In this chapter, God speaks directly to Job, challenging him and emphasizing the limitations of human understanding in the face of divine wisdom and power.
Key Themes
- Divine Sovereignty: The chapter underscores God’s authority over creation and the universe, highlighting His omnipotence.
- Human Limitations: Job is reminded of his finite understanding and the limitations of human perspective when it comes to divine matters.
- Humility: The chapter calls for humility in the face of God’s greatness and the mysteries of life.
Structure of the Chapter
- God’s Challenge to Job (Verses 1-2):
God begins by addressing Job directly, questioning him about his right to contend with the Almighty. This sets the tone for the subsequent discourse.
- God’s Call for Job’s Response (Verses 3-5):
Job’s initial response is one of humility, acknowledging his insignificance and choosing not to answer God’s challenge. This reflects Job’s recognition of his limitations.
- God’s Description of Behemoth (Verses 6-24):
God proceeds to describe the Behemoth, a powerful creature symbolizing God’s creation. This serves to illustrate God’s might and the complexity of His creations, further emphasizing Job’s lack of understanding.
Analysis of Key Verses
In this chapter, several verses stand out for their theological and literary significance:
- Verse 2: “Shall a faultfinder contend with the Almighty? He who argues with God, let him answer it.”
This verse introduces the central theme of divine authority versus human questioning, establishing the framework for God’s subsequent discourse.
- Verse 4: “Behold, I am of small account; what shall I answer you? I lay my hand on my mouth.”
Job’s admission of his limitations highlights the theme of humility and the recognition of God’s supremacy.
- Verses 15-24 (Behemoth Description):
The description of Behemoth serves as a metaphor for God’s creative power and the mysteries of life that humans cannot fully comprehend. It emphasizes the grandeur of God’s creations and the awe they inspire.
Theological Implications
Job Chapter 40 invites readers to reflect on the nature of suffering, the role of divine justice, and the human condition. It challenges the notion that suffering is always a direct result of sin and encourages believers to trust in God’s wisdom, even when circumstances seem unjust or incomprehensible.
Conclusion
In summary, Job Chapter 40 serves as a powerful reminder of God’s sovereignty and the limitations of human understanding. Through His direct address to Job, God emphasizes the importance of humility and trust in divine wisdom. The chapter sets the stage for further revelations about God’s nature and the ultimate purpose of suffering in the life of believers.
