Job 40:3
Then Job answered the LORD, and said,
Original Language Analysis
וַיַּ֖עַן
answered
H6030
וַיַּ֖עַן
answered
Strong's:
H6030
Word #:
1 of 5
properly, to eye or (generally) to heed, i.e., pay attention; by implication, to respond; by extension to begin to speak; specifically to sing, shout,
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
3 of 5
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
Historical Context
Girding up loins meant gathering one's robe for action—preparing for work, battle, or journey. The image conveyed readiness and resolve. God calls Job to brace himself for serious engagement with divine questions. Ancient readers would recognize this as preparing for a decisive confrontation.
Questions for Reflection
- What does it mean practically to "gird up your loins" when facing God's challenging questions?
- How do you respond when God reverses roles, questioning you instead of answering your questions?
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Analysis & Commentary
"Gird up thy loins now like a man; I will demand of thee, and declare thou unto me." God repeats His challenge from 38:3, using the imperative "gird up" (ezor, אֱזָר). The phrase "like a man" (kegever, כְגֶבֶר) calls Job to stand firm and answer directly. The role reversal continues—God questions, Job must answer. This humbles human pretension to judge divine governance. The repeated challenge suggests Job didn't fully grasp the first speech's implications. God graciously reiterates, pressing Job toward complete submission.