Job 38:14
It is turned as clay to the seal; and they stand as a garment.
Original Language Analysis
תִּ֭תְהַפֵּךְ
It is turned
H2015
תִּ֭תְהַפֵּךְ
It is turned
Strong's:
H2015
Word #:
1 of 6
to turn about or over; by implication, to change, overturn, return, pervert
כְּחֹ֣מֶר
as clay
H2563
כְּחֹ֣מֶר
as clay
Strong's:
H2563
Word #:
2 of 6
properly, a bubbling up, i.e., of water, a wave; hence, a chomer or dry measure
Historical Context
Ancient seals impressed wet clay with distinctive images, creating permanent identification. Similarly, folded garments appeared drab until opened to display vibrant patterns. Job's audience would immediately grasp these transformation metaphors. The daily renewal of visible beauty would remind them of God's faithfulness in renewing creation.
Questions for Reflection
- How has God's light transformed your perception of yourself, others, or circumstances?
- What areas of your life need the transforming illumination of God's truth?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
"It is turned as clay to the seal; and they stand as a garment." Dawn transforms earth's appearance as dramatically as wet clay receives a seal's impression or a garment displays its colors when unfolded. The Hebrew tithappek (תִּתְהַפֵּךְ, "is turned/transformed") suggests complete change. Darkness flattens landscape into indistinct shapes; sunrise reveals contours, colors, and details. This demonstrates God's artistic creativity and the transformation He brings. Spiritually, it anticipates how divine illumination transforms our perception of reality.