Job 39:21
He paweth in the valley, and rejoiceth in his strength: he goeth on to meet the armed men.
Original Language Analysis
יַחְפְּר֣וּ
He paweth
H2658
יַחְפְּר֣וּ
He paweth
Strong's:
H2658
Word #:
1 of 7
properly, to pry into; by implication, to delve, to explore
בְּכֹ֑חַ
in his strength
H3581
בְּכֹ֑חַ
in his strength
Strong's:
H3581
Word #:
4 of 7
vigor, literally (force, in a good or a bad sense) or figuratively (capacity, means, produce)
יֵ֝צֵ֗א
he goeth on
H3318
יֵ֝צֵ֗א
he goeth on
Strong's:
H3318
Word #:
5 of 7
to go (causatively, bring) out, in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively, direct and proxim
Historical Context
Ancient warfare depended heavily on cavalry charges. The war-horse's eager aggression made it effective. God's design of creatures suited to warfare taught that righteous combat has a place in His purposes. This would encourage those called to defend justice through necessary force.
Questions for Reflection
- How does this passage validate different callings, including those requiring confrontation?
- What battles is God calling you to engage eagerly rather than avoid peacefully?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
"He paweth in the valley, and rejoiceth in his strength: he goeth on to meet the armed men." The war-horse yachperu (יַחְפְּרוּ, "paws/digs") eagerly, rejoicing (yasis, יָשִׂישׂ) in strength, charging toward armed enemies. God designed this creature to delight in what would terrify others. This teaches that God creates diverse temperaments and callings—some for peace, others for battle. The horse isn't corrupted by loving combat; it fulfills its design. Not everyone is called to the same peaceful pursuits.