Job 39:2
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Job 39:2
2 Canst thou number the months that they fulfil? or knowest thou the time when they bring forth?
Chapter Context
Job 39 is a wisdom dialogue chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of judgment, obedience, faith. 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 provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. 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 39:2
2 Canst thou number the months that they fulfil? or knowest thou the time when they bring forth?
Analysis
"Canst thou number the months that they fulfil? or knowest thou the time when they bring forth?" God questions Job's knowledge of wild goats' gestation periods. The Hebrew male (מָלֵא, "fulfill/complete") refers to pregnancy completing its term. This demonstrates God's intimate knowledge of creation's details—timing of births in remote wilderness. If Job doesn't know such specifics about animal reproduction, how can he comprehend God's governance of human history? This teaches that divine providence extends to the minutest details of creation.
Historical Context
Ancient peoples observed animal behavior but lacked scientific understanding of reproductive cycles. Wild mountain goats lived in inaccessible terrain, making observation difficult. God's comprehensive knowledge of hidden natural processes would humble Job and readers, highlighting the vast difference between divine omniscience and human ignorance.
Reflection
- How does God's attention to wild animal gestation periods demonstrate His care for you?
- What areas of life do you think God isn't watching closely enough, forgetting His comprehensive knowledge?