Job 40:13
Hide them in the dust together; and bind their faces in secret.
Original Language Analysis
בֶּעָפָ֣ר
them in the dust
H6083
בֶּעָפָ֣ר
them in the dust
Strong's:
H6083
Word #:
2 of 6
dust (as powdered or gray); hence, clay, earth, mud
פְּ֝נֵיהֶ֗ם
their faces
H6440
פְּ֝נֵיהֶ֗ם
their faces
Strong's:
H6440
Word #:
4 of 6
the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi
Historical Context
Death and burial ("hidden in dust") represented final judgment in ancient thought. The "secret" place suggests Sheol/the grave. God's exclusive power over death and judgment distinguished Yahweh from pagan deities. This would assure readers that ultimate justice is certain, even if delayed beyond human preference.
Questions for Reflection
- How does trusting God's perfect timing for judgment free you from bitterness over unpunished evil?
- What wickedness are you trying to "bury" yourself rather than entrusting to divine justice?
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Analysis & Commentary
"Hide them in the dust together; and bind their faces in secret." God continues the challenge—can Job hide (tomen, טָמְנֵם) the wicked in dust and bind (chavosh, חֲבֹשׁ) their faces in darkness? This describes comprehensive judgment—death and the grave. Only God controls life and death, determining when the wicked face final judgment. Job cannot hasten that day despite desiring it. This teaches that God's timing in judgment, though mysterious, reflects perfect wisdom and purpose.