Job 38:6
Whereupon are the foundations thereof fastened? or who laid the corner stone thereof;
Original Language Analysis
עַל
H5921
עַל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
1 of 9
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
מָ֭ה
H4100
מָ֭ה
Strong's:
H4100
Word #:
2 of 9
properly, interrogative what? (including how? why? when?); but also exclamation, what! (including how!), or indefinitely what (including whatever, and
אֲדָנֶ֣יהָ
Whereupon are the foundations
H134
אֲדָנֶ֣יהָ
Whereupon are the foundations
Strong's:
H134
Word #:
3 of 9
a basis (of a building, a column, etc.)
א֥וֹ
H176
א֥וֹ
Strong's:
H176
Word #:
5 of 9
desire (and so probably in proverbs 31:4); hence (by way of alternative) or, also if
מִֽי
H4310
מִֽי
Strong's:
H4310
Word #:
6 of 9
who? (occasionally, by a peculiar idiom, of things); also (indefinitely) whoever; often used in oblique construction with prefix or suffix
Cross References
Job 26:7He stretcheth out the north over the empty place, and hangeth the earth upon nothing.Psalms 104:5Who laid the foundations of the earth, that it should not be removed for ever.Isaiah 28:16Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste.Psalms 93:1The LORD reigneth, he is clothed with majesty; the LORD is clothed with strength, wherewith he hath girded himself: the world also is stablished, that it cannot be moved.Psalms 118:22The stone which the builders refused is become the head stone of the corner.2 Peter 3:5For this they willingly are ignorant of, that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of the water and in the water:Zechariah 12:1The burden of the word of the LORD for Israel, saith the LORD, which stretcheth forth the heavens, and layeth the foundation of the earth, and formeth the spirit of man within him.
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern cosmologies featured various foundation myths—earth on pillars, floating on water, or supported by deities. Israel's understanding, while using similar imagery, affirmed that creation's stability came from Yahweh's word and power alone. The cornerstone ceremony was significant in ancient building practices, often involving religious rituals.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Christ as the cornerstone of creation and redemption shape our understanding of reality?
- In what ways do we seek stability in created things rather than the Creator who sustains all?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
"Whereupon are the foundations thereof fastened? or who laid the corner stone thereof?" The Hebrew adaneyha (אֲדָנֶיהָ, "foundations") and even pinnah (אֶבֶן פִּנָּה, "corner stone") employ architectural metaphor for cosmic stability. Ancient cosmology imagined earth resting on foundations or pillars. God's question emphasizes creation's stability derives from His power alone, not physical supports. The cornerstone, crucial for structural integrity, points to Christ as the ultimate cornerstone (Ephesians 2:20, 1 Peter 2:6). This verse underscores creation's utter dependence on God's sustaining power.