Job 39:1
Knowest thou the time when the wild goats of the rock bring forth? or canst thou mark when the hinds do calve?
Original Language Analysis
הֲיָדַ֗עְתָּ
Knowest
H3045
הֲיָדַ֗עְתָּ
Knowest
Strong's:
H3045
Word #:
1 of 8
to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o
עֵ֭ת
thou the time
H6256
עֵ֭ת
thou the time
Strong's:
H6256
Word #:
2 of 8
time, especially (adverb with preposition) now, when, etc
לֶ֣דֶת
bring forth
H3205
לֶ֣דֶת
bring forth
Strong's:
H3205
Word #:
3 of 8
to bear young; causatively, to beget; medically, to act as midwife; specifically, to show lineage
סָ֑לַע
of the rock
H5553
סָ֑לַע
of the rock
Strong's:
H5553
Word #:
5 of 8
a craggy rock, literally or figuratively (a fortress)
חֹלֵ֖ל
do calve
H2342
חֹלֵ֖ל
do calve
Strong's:
H2342
Word #:
6 of 8
properly, to twist or whirl (in a circular or spiral manner), i.e., (specifically) to dance, to writhe in pain (especially of parturition) or fear; fi
Cross References
Psalms 104:18The high hills are a refuge for the wild goats; and the rocks for the conies.Psalms 29:9The voice of the LORD maketh the hinds to calve, and discovereth the forests: and in his temple doth every one speak of his glory.1 Samuel 24:2Then Saul took three thousand chosen men out of all Israel, and went to seek David and his men upon the rocks of the wild goats.
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern peoples observed animals but lacked understanding of reproductive cycles. God's questions highlight divine knowledge exceeding human observation. The emphasis on God's care for wild (not domesticated) animals challenges utilitarian views of creation—God values creatures for their own sake, not merely human benefit. This theological point addresses Job's suffering: God's purposes extend beyond human comprehension or immediate benefit.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God's care for wild animals challenge our anthropocentric view of creation?
- What does divine providence over creation's details teach about His care for our lives even when we don't understand His purposes?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
God asks: 'Knowest thou the time when the wild goats of the rock bring forth? or canst thou mark when the hinds do calve?' The verb yada (יָדַע, knowest) means to know intimately or experientially. Ya'ale-sela (יַעֲלֵי־סָלַע, wild goats of the rock) refers to mountain goats. Shamar (שָׁמַר, mark) means to observe or watch over. The questions about animal reproduction highlight divine providence over creation's intimate details. God cares for even wild creatures beyond human observation or control, challenging Job's anthropocentric view. If God governs mountain goats' birthing, He governs Job's life though purposes remain hidden.