Job 39:18
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Job 39:18
18 What time she lifteth up herself on high, she scorneth the horse and his rider.
Chapter Context
Job 39 is a wisdom dialogue chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of faith, creation, obedience. 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 39:18
18 What time she lifteth up herself on high, she scorneth the horse and his rider.
Analysis
"What time she lifteth up herself on high, she scorneth the horse and his rider." When the ostrich runs, it "scorns" (sachaq, שָׂחַק, "laughs at/mocks") even horses and riders—it's the fastest bird on land. Though lacking wisdom, God gave it speed and strength. This demonstrates that God compensates for certain deficiencies with other extraordinary abilities. No creature has everything, but each has what it needs for its purpose. This encourages acceptance of one's unique combination of strengths and weaknesses.
Historical Context
Horses were the fastest transportation in ancient world. The ostrich's superior running speed would impress ancient observers. God designed each creature with specific excellences compensating for deficiencies. This would teach that divine wisdom distributes abilities purposefully, not randomly or unfairly.
Reflection
- How do your compensating strengths equip you perfectly for God's purposes despite deficiencies?
- What would change if you stopped envying others' gifts and maximized what God gave you?