Job 37:16
Dost thou know the balancings of the clouds, the wondrous works of him which is perfect in knowledge?
Original Language Analysis
הֲ֭תֵדַע
Dost thou know
H3045
הֲ֭תֵדַע
Dost thou know
Strong's:
H3045
Word #:
1 of 7
to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o
עַל
H5921
עַל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
2 of 7
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
עָ֑ב
of the clouds
H5645
עָ֑ב
of the clouds
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
Historical Context
Ancient peoples marveled at clouds without understanding atmospheric physics—water vapor, convection currents, temperature differentials. The mystery pointed toward divine power and wisdom. Modern meteorology explains mechanisms but doesn't eliminate wonder—how these physical laws came to exist and operate so reliably still points to divine wisdom. Elihu's appeal to nature's wonders parallels Psalm 104 and Proverbs 30:18-19.
Questions for Reflection
- How does scientific understanding of natural phenomena affect the teleological argument for God's existence?
- What is the difference between Elihu's rhetorical questions about creation and God's questions in chapters 38-41?
- How should creation's complexity inform both our doctrine of God and our intellectual humility?
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Analysis & Commentary
Elihu asks Job: "Dost thou know the balancings of the clouds, the wondrous works of him which is perfect in knowledge?" The noun miphlas (מִפְלָשׂ, "balancings") refers to how clouds hang suspended or float. The phrase "perfect in knowledge" (temim de'im, תְּמִים דֵּעִים) describes God's complete understanding. Elihu points to atmospheric phenomena exceeding human comprehension as evidence of divine wisdom. From a Reformed perspective, this illustrates the argument from design: creation's complexity points to Creator's intelligence. Romans 1:20 declares God's "eternal power and Godhead" are "clearly seen" through creation. Yet Elihu's rhetorical questions somewhat patronize Job—as if Job hadn't already contemplated God's power. The questions prepare for God's speeches (chapters 38-41), which will ask similar questions with divine authority rather than human presumption. When God asks such questions, they humble; when Elihu asks them, they sometimes sound self-important.