Job 40:18

KJV

His bones [are as] strong pieces of brass; his bones [are] like bars of iron.

KJV (with Strong's)

His bones {H6106} are as strong {H650} pieces of brass {H5154}; his bones {H1634} are like bars {H4300} of iron {H1270}.

Complete Jewish Bible

his bones are like bronze pipes, his limbs like iron bars.

Berean Standard Bible

His bones are tubes of bronze; his limbs are rods of iron.

American Standard Version

His bones areastubes of brass; His limbs are like bars of iron.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Job 40:18 provides a breathtaking description of Behemoth's unparalleled physical strength, depicting its bones as "strong pieces of brass" and "bars of iron." This vivid imagery is part of God's profound discourse to Job, meticulously crafted to unveil His own immeasurable creative power and absolute sovereignty through the sheer might of His creatures. The verse powerfully underscores the formidable, unyielding nature of Behemoth, serving as an undeniable testament to a Creator whose wisdom, might, and dominion far transcend human comprehension, thereby humbling Job and inviting all who read to stand in profound awe of the Almighty.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is intricately woven into the climactic section of the Book of Job, specifically within God's direct and awe-inspiring address to Job, which commences in [Job 38:1](/job/38-1 "Job 38:1 - God's First Speech to Job"). Following extensive dialogues where Job and his friends grapple with the profound mysteries of suffering and divine justice, God intervenes, not to provide a direct explanation for Job's trials, but to assert His unchallenged sovereign power and wisdom over all creation. [Job 40:18](/job/40-18 "Job 40:18 - Behemoth's Unyielding Strength") is an integral part of God's detailed portrayal of Behemoth, a magnificent creature first introduced in [Job 40:15](/job/40-15 "Job 40:15 - Introduction of Behemoth"). This description, immediately preceding that of Leviathan in [Job 41](/job/41 "Job 41 - Description of Leviathan"), serves a crucial theological purpose: to demonstrate that if Job cannot even comprehend or control these powerful, divinely fashioned creatures, he is certainly incapable of grasping the intricate ways and infinite wisdom of their Creator. The overarching narrative flow is meticulously designed to lead Job, and by extension the reader, to a posture of profound humility and unwavering trust in God's inscrutable, yet perfect, wisdom.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, brass (more accurately, bronze, an alloy primarily of copper and tin) and iron represented the pinnacle of known material strength and durability. These metals were indispensable for crafting essential tools, formidable weapons, and robust construction elements, thus symbolizing immense resilience, permanence, and unyielding power. The comparison of Behemoth's bones to these metals would have instantly communicated an image of unparalleled structural integrity and formidable, almost indestructible, power to an ancient audience. Furthermore, the concept of massive, untamable creatures resonated deeply with various ancient mythologies, often representing chaotic forces. However, in Job, God presents these creatures unequivocally as His own creations, entirely subject to His will, thereby asserting His supreme authority and dominion over all perceived forces of chaos or might. The prevailing cultural understanding of divine power often manifested through a deity's absolute control over the natural world, making God's meticulously detailed descriptions of these creatures a profound and undeniable demonstration of His omnipotence.
* **Key Themes:** [Job 40:18](/job/40-18 "Job 40:18 - Behemoth's Strength") profoundly contributes to several overarching theological themes woven throughout the Book of Job. Firstly, it emphatically highlights the **Divine Power in Creation**, underscoring God's absolute and unparalleled ability to fashion beings of extraordinary might, durability, and intricate design, far beyond any human capacity to create or control. Secondly, it vividly illustrates the **Incomprehensibility of God's Works and Ways**. The awe-inspiring description of Behemoth's unyielding strength serves as a powerful metaphor for the vast chasm between God's infinite wisdom and Job's finite understanding, echoing the theological truth articulated in [Isaiah 55:9](/isaiah/55-9 "Isaiah 55:9 - God's Thoughts are Higher"). If God's creation is so immensely powerful and shrouded in mystery, how much more unfathomable are His grand plans and ultimate purposes for humanity? Finally, the verse implicitly, yet powerfully, calls for **Humility Before God**. By showcasing Behemoth's incredible, divinely endowed might, God encourages Job—and all subsequent readers—to acknowledge their own inherent weakness and the absolute necessity of humility in the face of such a powerful, wise, and utterly sovereign Creator, ultimately leading to Job's profound repentance and submission in [Job 42:1-6](/job/42-1-6 "Job 42:1-6 - Job's Repentance and Restoration").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **bones (Hebrew, _ʻetsem'_):** The Hebrew עֶצֶם (`‘etsem`, H6106) refers primarily to the physical skeletal structure, the foundational framework of a body. However, its semantic range extends to denote the "essence," "substance," or "very being" of something, implying an inherent, core quality. In [Job 40:18](/job/40-18 "Job 40:18 - Behemoth's Strength"), it emphasizes that Behemoth's strength is not superficial but deeply intrinsic, an unyielding durability built into its fundamental constitution, signifying a creature of profound and unshakeable inner power.
* **brass (Hebrew, _nᵉchûwshâh'_):** The Hebrew נְחֻשָׁה (`nᵉchûwshâh`, H5154) is often translated as "copper" or, more commonly in ancient contexts, "bronze," which is an alloy of copper and tin. Bronze was a highly esteemed and exceptionally strong metal in the ancient world, widely utilized for durable tools, resilient armor, and formidable weapons. Comparing Behemoth's bones to bronze conveys an immediate sense of extraordinary hardness, density, and remarkable resistance to breakage, far surpassing the strength of any ordinary bone.
* **iron (Hebrew, _barzel'_):** The Hebrew בַּרְזֶל (`barzel`, H1270) refers to iron, a metal that, once its metallurgy was mastered, proved to be even stronger and more challenging to work with than bronze in ancient times. The mention of "bars of iron" (with `mᵉṭîyl`, H4300, for "bars") evokes images of solid, dense, and utterly unyielding rods. This comparison emphasizes an ultimate degree of rigidity and unbreakable strength, suggesting that Behemoth's skeletal structure possesses an almost indestructible quality, a testament to its divinely engineered might.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"His bones [are as] strong pieces of brass":** This initial clause immediately establishes the extraordinary robustness of Behemoth's skeletal structure through a vivid simile. The comparison to "brass" (bronze) signifies a foundational, inherent strength and remarkable durability. It implies that Behemoth's very framework is divinely engineered with immense power and resilience, far exceeding that of any known earthly creature. This phrase speaks to an unyielding, intrinsic quality that forms the core of its being.
* **"his bones [are] like bars of iron":** This second clause powerfully reinforces and intensifies the imagery introduced in the first. By likening the bones to "bars of iron," the text conveys an even greater degree of hardness, density, and unbreakability. Iron was the strongest and most formidable metal known in that era, and "bars" suggests solid, heavy, and utterly unbending components. The deliberate repetition of "his bones" underscores that this unparalleled strength is not merely an external attribute but is fundamental to the creature's very essence, rendering it virtually indestructible by human means.

#### Literary Devices
[Job 40:18](/job/40-18 "Job 40:18 - Behemoth's Strength") masterfully employs several potent **literary devices** to convey the immense, almost mythical, strength of Behemoth. The most prominent device is **Simile**, clearly evidenced by the use of "as" and "like" to draw direct comparisons between Behemoth's bones and "strong pieces of brass" and "bars of iron." These comparisons leverage the audience's understanding of the hardest and most durable materials known to them, making the creature's power tangible, formidable, and awe-inspiring. **Hyperbole** is also significantly at play, as the description likely exaggerates the literal properties of the creature's bones to emphasize its extraordinary, almost supernatural, strength. This deliberate exaggeration serves to magnify the boundless creative power of God. Furthermore, the strategic **Repetition** of the phrase "his bones" and the consistent metallic imagery ("brass," "iron") serves to underscore and intensify the central message of unparalleled strength and durability, driving home the point with emphatic force. Finally, the verse is rich in evocative **Imagery**, painting a vivid mental picture of a creature whose very skeleton functions as an unyielding, impenetrable fortress, thereby evoking a profound sense of wonder, reverence, and even fear.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
[Job 40:18](/job/40-18 "Job 40:18 - Behemoth's Strength"), in its vivid portrayal of Behemoth's formidable strength, serves as a profound theological statement about God's omnipotence and the inherent limits of human understanding. The creature's unyielding bones, likened to the strongest metals known, are a direct and undeniable testament to the Creator's boundless power, intricate design, and sovereign control over all things. This divine display is not merely for show but is strategically intended to humble Job, demonstrating that if humanity cannot contend with, or even fully comprehend, God's powerful creations, how much less can they grasp the infinite wisdom, perfect justice, and ultimate purposes of the Creator Himself. It unequivocally invites a posture of profound awe, reverence, and unwavering trust in a God whose ways are often inscrutable yet always perfect, reminding us that even in the midst of inexplicable suffering, His power remains absolute and His purposes extend far beyond our finite grasp.

* [Psalm 147:5](/psalms/147-5 "Psalm 147:5 - The Lord's Great Power and Understanding")
* [Isaiah 40:26](/isaiah/40-26 "Isaiah 40:26 - God's Power in Calling Forth the Stars")
* [Romans 1:20](/romans/1-20 "Romans 1:20 - God's Invisible Attributes Seen in Creation")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
[Job 40:18](/job/40-18 "Job 40:18 - Behemoth's Strength"), deeply embedded within God's awe-inspiring discourse, issues a powerful call to cultivate a deeper and more profound reverence for the Creator. In a contemporary world that often strives to dissect, explain, and ultimately control every aspect of existence, this verse serves as a crucial reminder that there are fundamental facets of God's creation, and indeed of God Himself, that will forever remain beyond our complete comprehension and finite control. Behemoth's immense, divinely engineered strength functions as a humbling mirror, reflecting our own inherent limitations and inviting us to embrace a posture of profound awe rather than an exhaustive need for understanding. When confronted with life's often inexplicable challenges, particularly the perplexing reality of suffering, this passage encourages us to place our unwavering trust in the boundless wisdom and omnipotent power of a God who can create and sustain such formidable beings. It compels us to recognize that His ways are infinitely higher than our ways, and His thoughts far beyond our thoughts. Ultimately, it is an invitation to marvel at the sheer magnitude of divine power and to discover profound peace in surrendering our relentless need for complete answers to a God who is infinitely greater than all our questions combined.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the description of Behemoth's strength in this verse challenge or expand your current understanding of God's creative power and sovereignty?**
* **In what specific areas of your life do you find yourself struggling to fully trust God's wisdom or power, especially when circumstances appear to be entirely beyond your control?**
* **How can intentionally cultivating a deeper sense of awe and wonder for God's creation lead to greater personal humility and unwavering trust in His divine sovereignty?**
* **What practical, tangible steps can you implement daily to remind yourself of God's immeasurable power and infinite wisdom, even during times when you cannot fully comprehend His plans or purposes?**

### FAQ
**What is Behemoth, and why is its exact identity important for understanding Job 40:18?**

Answer: The precise zoological identity of Behemoth has been a long-standing subject of extensive scholarly debate. Common interpretations range from a hippopotamus or an elephant to a large extinct creature (such as a dinosaur), or even a composite mythical creature symbolizing untamed power. However, for the theological purpose of [Job 40:18](/job/40-18 "Job 40:18 - Behemoth's Strength"), its exact zoological classification is ultimately less important than its symbolic and illustrative role within God's discourse to Job. The vivid description of Behemoth's bones as "brass" and "iron" is primarily employed to convey an unparalleled, divinely endowed strength, resilience, and unyielding nature, regardless of whether it corresponds to a literal animal or a more symbolic entity. The fundamental purpose is not to provide a zoological lesson but to powerfully demonstrate God's absolute and unchallenged power over even the mightiest and most untamable of creatures, thereby humbling Job and unequivocally asserting divine sovereignty over all creation. The focus remains squarely on the *attributes* of the creature—its immense power, colossal size, and invincibility to human efforts—as a profound reflection of its Creator's incomparable glory and omnipotence.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Behemoth in [Job 40:18](/job/40-18 "Job 40:18 - Behemoth's Strength") stands as an awe-inspiring testament to God's raw creative power and absolute sovereignty over creation, its formidable strength ultimately serves as a profound pointer to the infinitely greater, redemptive power embodied in Jesus Christ. The "strong pieces of brass" and "bars of iron" describing Behemoth's unyielding bones are but a faint, earthly echo of the unyielding, eternal power of the Son of God, through whom "all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him" ([Colossians 1:16](/colossians/1-16 "Colossians 1:16 - Christ as Creator and Sustainer")). If Behemoth's physical might demonstrates God's ability to create and control the most powerful earthly beings, then Christ's power extends infinitely further, encompassing the spiritual realm, triumphing decisively over sin, death, and the grave. He is the one who "upholds the universe by the word of his power" ([Hebrews 1:3](/hebrews/1-3 "Hebrews 1:3 - Christ Upholds the Universe")), and who, in His glorious resurrection, shattered the "bars of iron" of death's grip, proving His ultimate and eternal dominion over all things ([Acts 2:24](/acts/2-24 "Acts 2:24 - God Raised Jesus From the Dead")). Thus, the immense strength of Behemoth in [Job 40:18](/job/40-18 "Job 40:18 - Behemoth's Strength") functions as a magnificent shadow, preparing our hearts to marvel at the supreme, all-encompassing, redemptive, and sustaining power of Christ, in whom all the fullness of God dwells bodily ([Colossians 2:9](/colossians/2-9 "Colossians 2:9 - Fullness of Deity in Christ")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Job 7:12

[Am] I a sea, or a whale, that thou settest a watch over me?

Isaiah 48:4

Because I knew that thou [art] obstinate, and thy neck [is] an iron sinew, and thy brow brass;