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Commentary on Job 39 verses 19–25
God, having displayed his own power in those creatures that are strong and despise man, here shows it in one scarcely inferior to any of them in strength, and yet very tame and serviceable to man, and that is the horse, especially the horse that is prepared against the day of battle and is serviceable to man at a time when he has more than ordinary occasion for his service. It seems, there was, in Job's country, a noble generous breed of horses. Job, it is probable, kept many, though they are not mentioned among his possessions, cattle for use in husbandry being there valued more than those for state and war, which alone horses were then reserved for, and they were not then put to such mean services as with us they are commonly put to. Concerning the great horse, that stately beast, it is here observed, 1. That he has a great deal of strength and spirit (v. 19): Hast thou given the horse strength? He uses his strength for man, but has it not from him: God gave it to him, who is the fountain of all the powers of nature, and yet he himself delights not in the strength of the horse (Psa 147:10), but has told us that a horse is a vain thing for safety, Psa 33:17. For running, drawing, and carrying, no creature that is ordinarily in the service of man has so much strength as the horse has, nor is of so stout and bold a spirit, not to be made afraid as a grasshopper, but daring and forward to face danger. It is a mercy to man to have such a servant, which, though very strong, submits to the management of a child, and rebels not against his owner. But let not the strength of a horse be trusted to, Hos 14:3; Psa 20:7; Isa 31:1, Isa 31:3. 2. That his neck and nostrils look great. His neck is clothed with thunder, with a large and flowing mane, which makes him formidable and is an ornament to him. The glory of his nostrils, when he snorts, flings up his head, and throws foam about, is terrible, Job 39:20. Perhaps there might be at that time, and in that country, a more stately breed of horses than any we have now. 3. That he is very fierce and furious in battle, and charges with an undaunted courage, though he pushes on in imminent danger of his life. (1.) See how frolicsome he is (Job 39:21): He paws in the valley, scarcely knowing what ground he stands upon. He is proud of his strength, and he has much more reason to be so as using his strength in the service of man, and under his direction, than the wild ass that uses it in contempt of man, and in a revolt from him Job 39:8. (2.) See how forward he is to engage: He goes on to meet the armed men, animated, not by the goodness of the cause, or the prospect of honour, but only by the sound of the trumpet, the thunder of the captains, and the shouting of the soldiers, which are as bellows to the fire of his innate courage, and make him spring forward with the utmost eagerness, as if he cried, Ha! ha! Job 39:25. How wonderfully are the brute-creatures fitted for and inclined to the services for which they were designed. (3.) See how fearless he is, how he despises death and the most threatening dangers, (Job 39:22): He mocks at fear, and makes a jest of it; slash at him with a sword, rattle the quiver, brandish the spear, to drive him back, he will not retreat, but press forward, and even inspires courage into his rider. (4.) See how furious he is. He curvets and prances, and runs on with so much violence and heat against the enemy that one would think he even swallowed the ground with fierceness and rage, Job 39:24. High mettle is the praise of a horse rather than of a man, whom fierceness and rage ill become. This description of the war-horse will help to explain that character which is given of presumptuous sinners, Jer 8:6. Every one turneth to his course, as the horse rusheth into the battle. When a man's heart is fully set in him to do evil, and he is carried on in a wicked way by the violence of inordinate appetites and passions, there is no making him afraid of the wrath of God and the fatal consequences of sin. Let his own conscience set before him the curse of the law, the death that is the wages of sin, and all the terrors of the Almighty in battle-array; he mocks at this fear, and is not affrighted, neither turns he back from the flaming sword of the cherubim. Let ministers lift up their voice like a trumpet, to proclaim the wrath of God against him, he believes not that it is the sound of the trumpet, nor that God and his heralds are in earnest with him; but what will be in the end hereof it is easy to foresee.
66. For it was said to the first man when he sinned; Earth thou art, and to earth shalt thou go. [Gen. 3, 19] But the trumpets sound, when the powers of this world awfully prohibit holy men from preaching. Because, therefore, a preacher, inflamed by the zeal of the Holy Spirit, ceases not, even when set in the midst of punishments, to attract any sinners whomsoever to himself, he doubtless in his rage swalloweth the earth, but because he fears not at all the threats of persecutors, he believeth not that the blast of the trumpet soundeth. For what else is the ‘trumpet,’ which announces the peril of the contest, but the voice of worldly powers, which prepares when contemned the contest of death for those who resist?
67. This trumpet had been sounded by the chief priests, when they commanded the Apostles, when scourged, not to speak of God; as it is written; They commanded them, when they had been scourged, that they should not preach in the name of Jesus. [Acts 5, 40] But let us see how the blast of the trumpet frightens not the horse of God. Peter says; We ought to obey God, rather than men. [ib. 29] Who says also to others who were persecuting him; For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard. [Acts 4, 20] The horse of God, therefore, fears not the blast of the trumpet, because the illustrious preacher, having despised the powers of the world, fears not the sounds of any threats.
68. Let us see how another horse of God swalloweth the earth, and how no dread of the trumpet reaches him. For it is written; There came down certain Jews from Antioch and Iconium, and, having persuaded the multitude, they stoned Paul, and drew him out of the city, supposing he had been dead. But, as the disciples stood about him, he rose up, and came into the city, and the next day he departed with Barnabas to Derbe. And when they had preached the Gospel to that city, and had taught many, they returned to Lystrum, and Iconium, and Antioch, confirming the souls of the disciples. [Acts 14, 19-22] Let us consider, therefore, what threats could check this horse, when even death itself cannot keep him from his intention. Behold, he is overwhelmed with stones, and yet is not moved away from the word of the truth. He can be killed, he cannot be overcome. He is cast forth without the city as though he were dead. But he is found within the city another day an uninjured preacher. Oh ! what a noble weakness is there in this man! how victorious his punishment! how triumphant his endurance! He is by repulse stimulated to action: he is roused by blows to preach salvation, he is refreshed by punishment to cast off the weariness of toil. What adversity then can overcome him, whom punishment refreshes. But this horse of God both despises the arrows of the quiver, because he contemns the counsels of wickedness; he overcomes the brandished spear, because he strengthens his breast even against the wounds of open persecution; he breaks through the opposed shield, because he subdues by reasoning the disputation of opponents; he swalloweth the earth, because, by exhortation, he converts sinners into his own body: he believeth not that the blast of the trumpet soundeth, because he tramples down every voice of terrible prohibition. But that which is said of him, that he boldly perseveres in labours, is a smaller matter; he, besides, (which is a greater thing,) exults in adversities.
Concerning “the exhortation of the captains and the howling of the army,” the tempting vices that fight against us in invisible contest in behalf of the pride that reigns over them, some of them go first, like captains, others follow, after the manner of an army. For all faults do not occupy the heart with equal access. But while the greater and the few surprise a neglected mind, the smaller and the numberless pour themselves upon it in a whole body. For when pride, the queen of sins, has fully possessed a conquered heart, she surrenders it immediately to the seven principal sins, as if to some of her generals, to lay it waste. And an army in truth follows these generals, because doubtless there spring up from them importunate hosts of sins.
83. The blast of the trumpet sounds against the horse, when any sin, placed nigh, fearfully assails the mind of an Elect one, in that which he does boldly. But raging and snorting he swalloweth the earth, because he rouses himself by his violent ardour; and consumes, by daily advancing, whatever earthly things he finds within him. And he believeth not that the blast of the trumpet soundeth; because he carefully avoids, by firm consideration, all evil which arises from the glory of his virtue. For he would believe that the blast of the trumpet soundeth, if he were, perchance, to be afraid of doing other things which are right, on account of something else which wickedly springs from them. Because, therefore, he is not afraid of acting boldly, even in the presence of temptations sounding against him; he does not, when in his rage, dread the blast of the trumpet. But often, when he sees that he is prosperous in virtues, lest that very prosperity of virtues should exalt him, he rejoices that he is assaulted with temptations.
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SUMMARY
Job 39:24 offers a breathtaking and dynamic portrayal of the warhorse, capturing its raw power, unyielding spirit, and instinctive fervor for battle. This verse is an integral part of God's profound discourse to Job, where the Creator meticulously highlights the majesty, mystery, and meticulous design inherent in His creation. The warhorse serves as a prime example of divine craftsmanship and purpose, illustrating a creature perfectly fashioned by God's hand to operate according to His will, driven by an innate, divinely instilled zeal that transcends human comprehension or control.
CONTEXT
Literary Context: This verse is deeply embedded within God's second and final speech to Job, delivered from the whirlwind, spanning Job 38-41. In this extended divine monologue, God systematically challenges Job's limited perspective and wisdom by posing a series of rhetorical questions about the natural world, its intricate workings, and the untamed creatures within it. The specific description of the warhorse in Job 39:19-25 serves as a climactic illustration of God's sovereign power and design. It demonstrates that even the most formidable and instinct-driven animals are perfectly fashioned by His hand, operating according to His divine will, far beyond human control or understanding. This section powerfully underscores the vast chasm between human knowledge and divine omniscience, humbling Job before the Creator's incomprehensible wisdom.
Historical & Cultural Context: In the ancient Near East, horses, particularly warhorses, were highly prized for their strength, speed, and utility in battle. They were not merely beasts of burden but potent symbols of military might, national prestige, and even divine favor in warfare. Warfare was a common and brutal reality, and the ability to field and manage chariots and cavalry was crucial for national power and defense. God's description here taps into this cultural understanding of the horse's ferocity and indispensability in war, yet elevates it to a divine perspective. While humans could train and control horses to a degree, the inherent, wild, and untamed nature of creatures like the warhorse remained a testament to a power greater than man's. God's detailed portrayal emphasizes that even this creature, so vital to human endeavors, is ultimately a product and instrument of God's design, not human mastery.
Key Themes: The vivid description of the warhorse in Job 39:24 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Job and God's speeches. Firstly, it highlights Divine Sovereignty and Design, showcasing God's ultimate authority and intricate craftsmanship over all creation, from the smallest creature to the most powerful. The horse's inherent purpose and immediate, unhesitating reaction to the call of battle exemplify Instinct and Purpose divinely instilled, demonstrating a creature perfectly aligned with its intended function. The vivid imagery of "swallowing the ground with fierceness and rage" underscores Power and Fierceness as attributes of creation that reflect the Creator's own might, reminding Job of the vastness of God's power compared to his own. This passage ultimately serves to humble Job, redirecting his focus from his own suffering and limited understanding to the incomprehensible wisdom and power of the Creator, echoing the themes of God's unsearchable greatness found throughout Job 38 and Job 39.
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
Job 39:24 is rich in Vivid Imagery, painting a dynamic and visceral picture of the warhorse in action. The most prominent device is Metaphor in the phrase "He swalloweth the ground," which powerfully conveys the horse's incredible speed and forceful movement, as if it consumes the very earth beneath its hooves. This is further amplified by Hyperbole, exaggerating the horse's intensity to emphasize its overwhelming power and eagerness for battle. The phrase "neither believeth he" employs Personification, attributing a cognitive process (belief or doubt) to the animal, thereby highlighting its absolute, instinctual certainty and immediate, unhesitating response to the trumpet's call. The combined effect of these devices creates a profound sense of awe and wonder at the creature's divinely endowed attributes, underscoring God's masterful design and the inherent purpose He instills in His creation.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Job 39:24 powerfully illustrates God's meticulous and awe-inspiring design in creation, even in creatures seemingly wild and untamable. The warhorse's instinctual readiness and fierce devotion to its purpose serve as a profound testament to the Creator's wisdom and power, qualities far beyond human comprehension or control. This passage reminds us that God's sovereignty extends over every aspect of His creation, imbuing each with a specific nature and purpose that perfectly aligns with His grand design. It challenges human pride and limited understanding, prompting us to humble ourselves before the God who orchestrates even the most intricate details of the natural world, demonstrating His unmatched glory and wisdom. The horse's unwavering response to its call is a divine object lesson in divinely ordained purpose and unhesitating obedience.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The depiction of the warhorse in Job 39:24 offers profound spiritual lessons for believers today. Just as the warhorse is divinely designed with an innate purpose and responds with unhesitating zeal to the call of battle, so too are believers called to cultivate a similar readiness and passion in their spiritual lives. We are to be keenly attuned to God's voice and purposes, eagerly pursuing His will without hesitation or doubt, much like the warhorse's immediate response to the trumpet. This verse inspires us to approach our spiritual walk with the same fervor and commitment, recognizing that we are equipped by God for a divine purpose within His kingdom. It reminds us that God's power is evident throughout all creation, encouraging us to trust implicitly in His grand design and to find our own purpose within His sovereign plan, prepared to engage in the spiritual battles to which He calls us, confident in His ultimate victory and His equipping grace.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What does "He swalloweth the ground" mean in this context?
Answer: The phrase "He swalloweth the ground" is a vivid and powerful metaphor describing the warhorse's incredible speed and powerful stride. It suggests that the horse moves with such rapid momentum and force that it seems to consume or devour the distance beneath its hooves. It emphasizes the animal's unbridled energy and its relentless, ground-eating charge, driven by an intense desire to close the gap to battle. This imagery highlights the horse's immense power and its eagerness for action, making it a formidable creature in warfare, all part of God's intricate design and a testament to His creative might.
Why does God describe animals in such detail to Job?
Answer: God describes various animals, including the warhorse, in such intricate detail to Job primarily to demonstrate His own boundless wisdom, incomparable power, and absolute sovereignty over all creation. Job, in his suffering, had questioned God's justice and governance, feeling that God was unjust or indifferent to his plight. By presenting creatures like the warhorse, Behemoth, and Leviathan—animals beyond human control or full comprehension—God illustrates that His understanding and power far surpass Job's limited human perspective. The detailed descriptions serve to humble Job, reminding him that if he cannot comprehend or control even these magnificent creatures, how much less can he grasp the depths of God's ways or challenge His divine administration of the universe. It shifts Job's focus from his personal suffering to the majestic glory of the Creator, ultimately leading Job to repentance and a deeper trust in God's unsearchable wisdom, as seen in Job 42:1-6.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Job 39:24 describes a creature of the natural world, its portrayal of a being perfectly aligned with its purpose and fiercely obedient to the call of battle finds a profound Christ-centered fulfillment. Just as the warhorse is prepared for battle with an unyielding spirit, so too was Jesus Christ, the ultimate warrior, perfectly prepared and utterly obedient to His Father's will for the greatest spiritual battle—the conquest of sin and death. He did not "believe" or doubt the call to the cross; rather, with divine "fierceness and rage" against sin and the powers of darkness, He "set His face like flint" towards Jerusalem, eager to accomplish the salvation of humanity. The imagery of the horse "swallowing the ground" can metaphorically point to Christ's determined advance towards His mission, fulfilling prophecy and relentlessly pursuing the Father's plan. Ultimately, He is the one who rides forth victoriously, not on a mere warhorse, but as the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, as majestically depicted in Revelation 19:11-16, leading the heavenly armies to final triumph. His obedience unto death, as described in Philippians 2:8, and His ultimate purpose to destroy the works of the devil (1 John 3:8), reflect the ultimate, divine readiness and purpose that the warhorse's instinct only faintly shadows. He is the one who, like the horse, does not hesitate at the trumpet's sound, but responds with perfect, divine resolve, bringing about eternal victory and establishing His righteous reign.