Job 39:17
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Job 39:17
17 Because God hath deprived her of wisdom, neither hath he imparted to her understanding.
Chapter Context
Job 39 is a wisdom dialogue chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, love, righteousness. 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 21-30: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. 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 39:17
17 Because God hath deprived her of wisdom, neither hath he imparted to her understanding.
Analysis
"Because God hath deprived her of wisdom, neither hath he imparted to her understanding." God explicitly states He withheld wisdom from the ostrich—the Hebrew hishah (הִשָּׁהּ, "made her forget") indicates intentional deprivation. Yet the ostrich functions perfectly within its design. This teaches that God distributes gifts differently to each creature; lacking certain abilities doesn't indicate divine disfavor. Each design serves God's purposes. Comparing oneself to others' different giftings misunderstands divine wisdom in diversity.
Historical Context
The ostrich's behavior seemed foolish compared to other birds. God reveals this isn't accident but design. Ancient readers would learn that God's purposes don't require giving every creature (or person) the same gifts. Diversity in abilities serves the whole creation's purposes.
Reflection
- How does this verse free you from envy over others' gifts you weren't given?
- What abilities God withheld from you might actually perfect you for your specific calling?
Word Studies
- God: אֱלֹהִים (Elohim) H433 - God (plural of majesty)
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Job 35:11