Job 41:12

Authorized King James Version

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I will not conceal his parts, nor his power, nor his comely proportion.

Original Language Analysis

לֹא H3808
לֹא
Strong's: H3808
Word #: 1 of 7
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
אַחֲרִ֥ישׁ I will not conceal H2790
אַחֲרִ֥ישׁ I will not conceal
Strong's: H2790
Word #: 2 of 7
to scratch, i.e., (by implication) to engrave, plough; hence (from the use of tools) to fabricate (of any material); figuratively, to devise (in a bad
בַּדָּ֑יו H905
בַּדָּ֑יו
Strong's: H905
Word #: 3 of 7
properly, separation; by implication, a part of the body, branch of a tree, bar for carrying; figuratively, chief of a city; especially (with preposit
וּדְבַר H1697
וּדְבַר
Strong's: H1697
Word #: 4 of 7
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
גְּ֝בוּר֗וֹת nor his power H1369
גְּ֝בוּר֗וֹת nor his power
Strong's: H1369
Word #: 5 of 7
force (literally or figuratively); by implication, valor, victory
וְחִ֣ין nor his comely H2433
וְחִ֣ין nor his comely
Strong's: H2433
Word #: 6 of 7
beauty
עֶרְכּֽוֹ׃ proportion H6187
עֶרְכּֽוֹ׃ proportion
Strong's: H6187
Word #: 7 of 7
a pile, equipment, estimate

Analysis & Commentary

"I will not conceal his parts, nor his power, nor his comely proportion." God promises detailed description of Leviathan—its parts (badav, בַּדָּיו), power (gevurotav, גְּבוּרֹתָיו), and proportions (chein erkho, חִין עֶרְכּוֹ, "grace of arrangement"). Even in describing forces beyond human control, God reveals His creative excellence. Leviathan's terrifying power comes packaged with beautiful design. This teaches that even overwhelming aspects of creation display divine artistry, inviting wonder alongside fear.

Historical Context

Ancient descriptions of fearsome creatures often emphasized only threatening aspects. God's inclusion of Leviathan's "comely proportion" taught that even the terrifying displays divine beauty and design. This would expand understanding of God's character—He is artist even in creating powerful forces.

Questions for Reflection

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