Job 38:26
To cause it to rain on the earth, where no man is; on the wilderness, wherein there is no man;
Original Language Analysis
עַל
H5921
עַל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
2 of 9
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
לֹא
H3808
לֹא
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
4 of 9
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
אִ֑ישׁ
where no man
H376
אִ֑ישׁ
where no man
Strong's:
H376
Word #:
5 of 9
a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)
מִ֝דְבָּ֗ר
is on the wilderness
H4057
מִ֝דְבָּ֗ר
is on the wilderness
Strong's:
H4057
Word #:
6 of 9
a pasture (i.e., open field, whither cattle are driven); by implication, a desert
לֹא
H3808
לֹא
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
7 of 9
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
Cross References
Jeremiah 14:22Are there any among the vanities of the Gentiles that can cause rain? or can the heavens give showers? art not thou he, O LORD our God? therefore we will wait upon thee: for thou hast made all these things.Psalms 107:35He turneth the wilderness into a standing water, and dry ground into watersprings.
Historical Context
Ancient near eastern religions often portrayed deities serving human needs through nature. Israel's God reveals Himself as independently glorious, blessing creation for His own purposes. This countercultural truth would challenge utilitarian views of nature and expand understanding of God's character and purposes.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God's care for uninhabited wilderness challenge our human-centered view of creation?
- What does this reveal about God's character that He blesses creation beyond human observation or benefit?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
"To cause it to rain on the earth, where no man is; on the wilderness, wherein there is no man." God sends rain on uninhabited lands, serving no immediate human purpose. This challenges anthropocentric thinking—creation exists for God's glory, not merely human utility. The double emphasis "where no man is" highlights God's care for creation itself, apart from human benefit. This demonstrates God's generosity and the intrinsic value He places on all creation. It teaches that God's purposes transcend human understanding and interest.