Job 37:5
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Job 37:5
5 God thundereth marvellously with his voice; great things doeth he, which we cannot comprehend.
Chapter Context
Job 37 is a wisdom dialogue chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of faith, prayer, love. 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 demonstrates God's faithfulness despite human unfaithfulness. 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 37:5
5 God thundereth marvellously with his voice; great things doeth he, which we cannot comprehend.
Analysis
Elihu marvels: 'God thundereth marvellously with his voice; great things doeth he, which we cannot comprehend.' This acknowledgment of divine incomprehensibility prepares for God's speeches. Elihu correctly identifies mystery in God's ways.
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern weather phenomena (thunder, storms) were attributed to divine action. Elihu uses natural revelation to teach about God's incomprehensible greatness.
Reflection
- How does nature reveal God's incomprehensible greatness?
- What role does mystery play in understanding God?
Word Studies
- God: אֱלֹהִים (Elohim) H410 - God (plural of majesty)
Cross-References
- References God: Job 11:7, 36:26, Ecclesiastes 3:11, Isaiah 40:28, Romans 11:33, Revelation 15:3
- Parallel theme: Job 5:9, 9:10, 26:14