Job 38:40
When they couch in their dens, and abide in the covert to lie in wait?
Original Language Analysis
כִּי
H3588
כִּי
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
1 of 7
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
יָשֹׁ֥חוּ
When they couch
H7817
יָשֹׁ֥חוּ
When they couch
Strong's:
H7817
Word #:
2 of 7
to sink or depress (reflexive or causative)
בַמְּעוֹנ֑וֹת
in their dens
H4585
בַמְּעוֹנ֑וֹת
in their dens
Strong's:
H4585
Word #:
3 of 7
an abode, of god (the tabernacle or the temple), men (their home) or animals (their lair); hence, a retreat (asylum)
יֵשְׁב֖וּ
and abide
H3427
יֵשְׁב֖וּ
and abide
Strong's:
H3427
Word #:
4 of 7
properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry
Cross References
Historical Context
Ancient observers marveled at lions' hunting prowess and strategic intelligence. In a worldview where animals were sometimes considered divine or possessed of independent wisdom, God's question asserts that animal behavior ultimately derives from and depends upon His governance, not inherent animal divinity or independent natural law.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God's governance of animal instinct inform your understanding of His guidance in human behavior and decision-making?
- What does the lions' patient waiting teach you about trusting God's timing in your circumstances?
- In what ways do you need to recognize God's hand in what appears to be 'natural' or automatic processes?
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Analysis & Commentary
This verse continues the lion imagery, describing their hunting behavior. 'Couch in their dens' (rabats me'onah, רָבַץ מְעוֹנָה) refers to the lion's resting posture in its lair. 'Abide in the covert to lie in wait' (yashab sukkah, יָשַׁב סֻכָּה) describes patient ambush hunting from concealed positions. The verse emphasizes the lions' patient, strategic hunting—waiting for prey rather than constant action. God's question implies: who teaches lions this effective hunting strategy? Who ensures their concealment is adequate and their patience rewarded? The verse reveals divine providence in animal instinct and behavior. What appears to be natural animal wisdom is actually God's implanted design, sustained by His continuous governance. This challenges evolutionary naturalism by emphasizing that even predatory behavior serves divine purposes and reflects divine wisdom. The patience of lions in their coverts also serves as metaphor for believers waiting on God's timing (Psalm 27:14).