Job 38:20
That thou shouldest take it to the bound thereof, and that thou shouldest know the paths to the house thereof?
Original Language Analysis
כִּ֣י
H3588
כִּ֣י
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
1 of 8
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
תִ֭קָּחֶנּוּ
That thou shouldest take
H3947
תִ֭קָּחֶנּוּ
That thou shouldest take
Strong's:
H3947
Word #:
2 of 8
to take (in the widest variety of applications)
גְּבוּל֑וֹ
it to the bound
H1366
גְּבוּל֑וֹ
it to the bound
Strong's:
H1366
Word #:
4 of 8
properly, a cord (as twisted), i.e., (by implication) a boundary; by extension the territory inclosed
וְכִֽי
H3588
וְכִֽי
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
5 of 8
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
Historical Context
The question employs contemporary understanding of natural phenomena while pointing beyond to divine mystery. Ancient people recognized they couldn't control day/night cycles—only God could. This would humble any presumption that humans could comprehend or direct God's purposes in history or individual lives.
Questions for Reflection
- How does acknowledging our ignorance about creation's basic operations affect our confidence in judging God's ways?
- What areas of life do you need to release from your control, trusting God who governs all?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
"That thou shouldest take it to the bound thereof, and that thou shouldest know the paths to the house thereof?" God continues questioning about light and darkness—can Job guide them to their boundaries and pathways? The imagery treats light and darkness as entities with domains and routes. This emphasizes God's comprehensive knowledge versus human ignorance of creation's workings. The rhetorical question teaches that if Job cannot manage basic created phenomena, he certainly cannot judge God's governance of moral and spiritual realities.