Job 39:4
Their young ones are in good liking, they grow up with corn; they go forth, and return not unto them.
Original Language Analysis
יַחְלְמ֣וּ
are in good liking
H2492
יַחְלְמ֣וּ
are in good liking
Strong's:
H2492
Word #:
1 of 8
properly, to bind firmly, i.e., (through the figurative sense of dumbness) to dream
בְ֭נֵיהֶם
Their young ones
H1121
בְ֭נֵיהֶם
Their young ones
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
2 of 8
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
בַבָּ֑ר
with corn
H1250
בַבָּ֑ר
with corn
Strong's:
H1250
Word #:
4 of 8
grain of any kind (even while standing in the field); by extension the open country
יָ֝צְא֗וּ
they go forth
H3318
יָ֝צְא֗וּ
they go forth
Strong's:
H3318
Word #:
5 of 8
to go (causatively, bring) out, in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively, direct and proxim
וְלֹא
H3808
וְלֹא
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
6 of 8
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
Historical Context
Ancient observers noticed different animals had varying parental care periods. This natural order demonstrated divine design and wisdom. Understanding that God encoded survival instincts and growth patterns into creatures would assure readers of His comprehensive provision for all life.
Questions for Reflection
- How does observing God's designed independence in creation inform healthy human relationships?
- What does creation's self-sustaining design reveal about God's efficient wisdom and ongoing providence?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
"Their young ones are in good liking, they grow up with corn; they go forth, and return not unto them." The young mature (chalats, חָלַץ, "grow strong") and become independent without prolonged parental care. God designs each species with appropriate nurture periods. The young don't "return" (shuv, שׁוּב)—they follow their created instincts. This demonstrates God's wisdom in creation design—each creature equipped with what it needs for survival. The verse celebrates creation's self-sustaining patterns established by divine wisdom.