Job 39:3

Commentary on Job 39:3

Job 39:3 is part of God's profound discourse to Job from the whirlwind, found in chapters 38-41. In this section, God challenges Job's understanding and wisdom by highlighting His own intricate knowledge and control over the natural world and its creatures. This particular verse describes the natural process of wild animals giving birth, emphasizing their inherent instincts and God's providential care over their existence.

Context

Following Job's complaints and his friends' theological debates, God intervenes to reveal His infinite power and wisdom. Chapters 38 and 39 focus on various elements of creation—from the cosmos to the animal kingdom—demonstrating that God's ways are far beyond human comprehension. Verse 39:3 specifically sets the stage for the description of wild animals like the wild ass, wild ox, and ostrich, whose birthing processes are natural and unassisted by human hands. God is essentially asking Job, "Do you govern these processes? Do you understand them?" thereby underscoring His unquestionable sovereignty over creation.

Key Themes

• Divine Providence and Sovereignty: The verse powerfully illustrates God's meticulous design and ongoing care for all living things. He orchestrates the natural cycles of life, including the birthing of wild animals, without human intervention. This points to a God who is intimately involved in every aspect of His creation.
• Instinctual Nature of Creation: The actions described—"They bow themselves, they bring forth their young ones, they cast out their sorrows"—are purely instinctual. These animals do not require human midwives or assistance; God has endowed them with the innate ability to reproduce and care for their young.
• Humility Before God's Wisdom: By asking Job if he controls or even comprehends these natural processes, God humbles Job, demonstrating the vast chasm between human understanding and divine wisdom. It encourages all to recognize the limits of their knowledge in comparison to the Creator.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "They bow themselves" (Hebrew: yiḵrāʿû - יִכְרְעוּ) refers to the act of kneeling or crouching, a common posture animals take during labor. It signifies the physical strain and readiness for birth. The subsequent phrase, "they cast out their sorrows" (Hebrew: yishlekhoo atzbam - יְשַׁלְּחוּ עַצְבָּם), is particularly evocative. The word atzbam (עַצְבָּם) can mean pain, trouble, or sorrow. In this context, it likely refers to the expulsion of the afterbirth or the relief experienced once the pains of labor have passed and the young are delivered. It highlights the completeness of the natural birthing cycle, from the onset of labor to the relief and successful delivery.

Practical Application

Job 39:3 offers several valuable lessons for today. Firstly, it reminds us of God's incredible attention to detail and His sovereign control over all aspects of life, even those we take for granted. If God cares for the birthing of wild animals in the wilderness, how much more does He care for humanity, made in His image? This can bring comfort and assurance in times of uncertainty. Secondly, it calls us to humility. We are often quick to assume control or understanding, but this verse, like the entire discourse in Job 38-41, urges us to acknowledge God's superior wisdom and power. It encourages us to trust in the Lord's consistent provision for all His creatures and to find peace in His ordered universe.