Job 37:14
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Job 37:14
14 Hearken unto this, O Job: stand still, and consider the wondrous works of God.
Chapter Context
Job 37 is a wisdom dialogue chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of salvation, faith, worship. Written during the patriarchal period (literary composition later), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Ancient wisdom traditions often wrestled with the problem of suffering and divine justice.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-24: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Job and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Job 37:14
14 Hearken unto this, O Job: stand still, and consider the wondrous works of God.
Analysis
Elihu commands Job: "Hearken unto this, O Job: stand still, and consider the wondrous works of God." The imperative ha'azin (הַאֲזִין, "hearken") means to give ear, listen intently. The command amad (עֲמֹד, "stand still") means to cease movement, to pause. The verb hitbonen (הִתְבּוֹנֵן, "consider") means to discern or understand deeply. Elihu urges Job to stop striving and contemplate God's works in creation. This advice, though somewhat condescending in context, contains wisdom: anxious striving can blind us to God's revelation in nature. Psalm 46:10 commands similarly: "Be still, and know that I am God." From a Reformed perspective, natural revelation displays God's "eternal power and Godhead" (Romans 1:20). Yet Elihu's counsel falls short—Job needs more than nature meditation; he needs direct encounter with God, which Job 38-41 will provide. Still, Elihu rightly perceives that contemplating God's works cultivates humility and awe.
Historical Context
Ancient wisdom literature frequently appealed to nature as teacher (Proverbs 6:6-8, 30:24-28). Israelite theology saw creation as declaring God's glory (Psalm 19:1). However, fallen humanity suppresses this revelation (Romans 1:18-23), requiring special revelation to properly interpret natural revelation. Elihu's call to observe nature prepares for God's speeches focusing on creation's mysteries.
Reflection
- How does contemplating God's works in creation cultivate humility and wonder?
- What is the relationship between natural revelation and special revelation in knowing God?
- How should "standing still" to consider God's works balance with actively seeking Him in Scripture and prayer?
Word Studies
- God: אֱלֹהִים (Elohim) H410 - God (plural of majesty)
Cross-References
- References God: Psalms 46:10
- Parallel theme: Job 36:24, Exodus 14:13, Psalms 111:2, Habakkuk 2:20