Job 39:8
The range of the mountains is his pasture, and he searcheth after every green thing.
Original Language Analysis
יְת֣וּר
The range
H3491
יְת֣וּר
The range
Strong's:
H3491
Word #:
1 of 7
properly, what is left, i.e., (by implication) a gleaning
הָרִ֣ים
of the mountains
H2022
הָרִ֣ים
of the mountains
Strong's:
H2022
Word #:
2 of 7
a mountain or range of hills (sometimes used figuratively)
מִרְעֵ֑הוּ
is his pasture
H4829
מִרְעֵ֑הוּ
is his pasture
Strong's:
H4829
Word #:
3 of 7
pasture (the place or the act); also the haunt of wild animals
וְאַחַ֖ר
after
H310
וְאַחַ֖ר
after
Strong's:
H310
Word #:
4 of 7
properly, the hind part; generally used as an adverb or conjunction, after (in various senses)
כָּל
H3605
כָּל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
5 of 7
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
Historical Context
Mountain pastures were generally unsuitable for domesticated herds, which needed accessible grasslands near settlements. Wild asses adapted to marginal lands demonstrated God's comprehensive design—no niche left unfilled, no environment without perfectly suited inhabitants.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the wild ass's contentment in harsh freedom challenge cultural pursuits of comfort?
- Are you thriving in the environment God placed you, or envying others' different callings?
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Analysis & Commentary
"The range of the mountains is his pasture, and he searcheth after every green thing." God describes the wild ass's habitat—mountain ranges where it seeks (darash, דָּרַשׁ, "search/seek") vegetation. The verb suggests active searching, not passive grazing. God designed this creature with instincts and abilities perfectly suited to its harsh environment. This demonstrates divine care in matching creatures to habitats. The wild ass doesn't envy domesticated animals' easier lives; it thrives in freedom doing what God created it for.