Job 37:14
Hearken unto this, O Job: stand still, and consider the wondrous works of God.
Original Language Analysis
הַאֲזִ֣ינָה
Hearken
H238
הַאֲזִ֣ינָה
Hearken
Strong's:
H238
Word #:
1 of 7
to broaden out the ear (with the hand), i.e., (by implication) to listen
עֲ֝מֹ֗ד
stand still
H5975
עֲ֝מֹ֗ד
stand still
Strong's:
H5975
Word #:
4 of 7
to stand, in various relations (literal and figurative, intransitive and transitive)
וְהִתְבּוֹנֵ֤ן׀
and consider
H995
וְהִתְבּוֹנֵ֤ן׀
and consider
Strong's:
H995
Word #:
5 of 7
to separate mentally (or distinguish), i.e., (generally) understand
Cross References
Psalms 111:2The works of the LORD are great, sought out of all them that have pleasure therein.Exodus 14:13And Moses said unto the people, Fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of the LORD, which he will shew to you to day: for the Egyptians whom ye have seen to day, ye shall see them again no more for ever.Habakkuk 2:20But the LORD is in his holy temple: let all the earth keep silence before him.Job 36:24Remember that thou magnify his work, which men behold.Psalms 46:10Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.
Historical Context
Ancient wisdom literature frequently appealed to nature as teacher (Proverbs 6:6-8, 30:24-28). Israelite theology saw creation as declaring God's glory (Psalm 19:1). However, fallen humanity suppresses this revelation (Romans 1:18-23), requiring special revelation to properly interpret natural revelation. Elihu's call to observe nature prepares for God's speeches focusing on creation's mysteries.
Questions for Reflection
- How does contemplating God's works in creation cultivate humility and wonder?
- What is the relationship between natural revelation and special revelation in knowing God?
- How should "standing still" to consider God's works balance with actively seeking Him in Scripture and prayer?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Elihu commands Job: "Hearken unto this, O Job: stand still, and consider the wondrous works of God." The imperative ha'azin (הַאֲזִין, "hearken") means to give ear, listen intently. The command amad (עֲמֹד, "stand still") means to cease movement, to pause. The verb hitbonen (הִתְבּוֹנֵן, "consider") means to discern or understand deeply. Elihu urges Job to stop striving and contemplate God's works in creation. This advice, though somewhat condescending in context, contains wisdom: anxious striving can blind us to God's revelation in nature. Psalm 46:10 commands similarly: "Be still, and know that I am God." From a Reformed perspective, natural revelation displays God's "eternal power and Godhead" (Romans 1:20). Yet Elihu's counsel falls short—Job needs more than nature meditation; he needs direct encounter with God, which Job 38-41 will provide. Still, Elihu rightly perceives that contemplating God's works cultivates humility and awe.