Job 37:8
Then the beasts go into dens, and remain in their places.
Original Language Analysis
חַיָּ֣ה
Then the beasts
H2416
חַיָּ֣ה
Then the beasts
Strong's:
H2416
Word #:
2 of 6
alive; hence, raw (flesh); fresh (plant, water, year), strong; also (as noun, especially in the feminine singular and masculine plural) life (or livin
Historical Context
Ancient observers noted animal hibernation without understanding its biological mechanisms, interpreting it as evidence of God-given wisdom in creation. Proverbs 30:24-28 likewise marvels at small creatures' instinctive wisdom, seeing it as pointing beyond itself to the Creator's design.
Questions for Reflection
- What can you learn from animals who accept seasonal limitations without questioning God's purposes?
- When has your rational mind prevented you from seeking God as your refuge in life's storms, unlike instinct-driven creatures?
- How does hibernation serve as a metaphor for spiritual seasons where God calls you to withdraw and rest in Him?
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Analysis & Commentary
Then the beasts go into dens, and remain in their places (watabo hayah bi-m'onah u-vim'onoteyha tishkon, וַתָּבוֹא חַיָּה בִמְעוֹנָה וּבִמְעוֹנֹתֶיהָ תִּשְׁכּוֹן)—The verb shakan (שָׁכַן) means to dwell or abide, the same root as Shekinah, God's dwelling presence. Even wild animals practice seasonal Sabbath, 'dwelling' in hibernation shelters. The noun me'onah (מְעוֹנָה) denotes a habitation or refuge.
Elihu observes that instinct-driven animals obey divine weather-signals without rebellion, while rational Job questions God's governance. The rebuke is implicit: if beasts accept their creaturely limits and seek shelter when storms come, shouldn't humans trust God's wisdom in life's winters? This anticipates Jesus pointing to ravens and lilies as teachers of faith (Luke 12:24-27).