Job 37:11
Also by watering he wearieth the thick cloud: he scattereth his bright cloud:
Original Language Analysis
אַף
H637
אַף
Strong's:
H637
Word #:
1 of 7
meaning accession (used as an adverb or conjunction); also or yea; adversatively though
עָ֑ב
the thick cloud
H5645
עָ֑ב
the thick cloud
Strong's:
H5645
Word #:
4 of 7
properly, an envelope, i.e., darkness (or density, 2 chronicles 4:17); specifically, a (scud) cloud; also a copse
יָ֝פִ֗יץ
he scattereth
H6327
יָ֝פִ֗יץ
he scattereth
Strong's:
H6327
Word #:
5 of 7
to dash in pieces, literally or figuratively (especially to disperse)
Cross References
Isaiah 18:4For so the LORD said unto me, I will take my rest, and I will consider in my dwelling place like a clear heat upon herbs, and like a cloud of dew in the heat of harvest.Job 36:32With clouds he covereth the light; and commandeth it not to shine by the cloud that cometh betwixt.Matthew 17:5While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him.
Historical Context
Ancient observers saw thunderstorms as divine warfare—clouds as God's chariots, lightning as His arrows (Psalm 18:12-14). Elihu demythologizes pagan storm-god myths while maintaining God's active involvement, presenting weather as divine artistry combining beauty (bright clouds) and power (wearisome weight).
Questions for Reflection
- How do you see God's simultaneous gentleness (watering) and power (lightning) in your current circumstances?
- What does it mean that God 'burdens' clouds before releasing rain—how might He 'burden' you with preparation before blessing?
- Why does Scripture so often combine opposite divine attributes (nurturing/terrifying, gentle/powerful) in the same image?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
By watering he wearieth the thick cloud (af-beri yat'riah 'av, אַף־בְּרִי יַטְרִיחַ עָב)—The verb tara'ach (טָרַח) means to burden or load down; God 'burdens' clouds with moisture until they're heavy with rain. The noun 'av (עָב) denotes thick, dark storm clouds. He scattereth his bright cloud (yafits 'anan 'oro, יָפִיץ עֲנַן אוֹרוֹ)—yafits means to scatter or disperse; anan (עֲנַן) is cloud; or (אוֹר) is light or lightning.
Elihu describes two divine actions: loading clouds with water-weight, then scattering them with lightning-light. This combines God's nurturing provision (rain for crops) with His terrifying power (lightning strikes). The juxtaposition shows God's governance integrates opposite purposes—gentle watering and violent flashing—in a single meteorological event.