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Commentary on Job 40 verses 15–24
God, for the further proving of his own power and disproving of Job's pretensions, concludes his discourse with the description of two vast and mighty animals, far exceeding man in bulk and strength, one he calls behemoth, the other leviathan. In these verses we have the former described. "Behold now behemoth, and consider whether thou art able to contend with him who made that beast and gave him all the power he has, and whether it is not thy wisdom rather to submit to him and make thy peace with him." Behemoth signifies beasts in general, but must here be meant of some one particular species. Some understand it of the bull; others of an amphibious animal, well known (they say) in Egypt, called the river-horse (hippopotamus), living among the fish in the river Nile, but coming out to feed upon the earth. But I confess I see no reason to depart from the ancient and most generally received opinion, that it is the elephant that is here described, which is a very strong stately creature, of very large stature above any other, of wonderful sagacity, and of so great a reputation in the animal kingdom that among so many four-footed beasts as we have had the natural history of (ch. 38 and 39) we can scarcely suppose this should be omitted. Observe,
I. The description here given of the behemoth.
1.His body is very strong and well built. His strength is in his loins, Job 40:16. His bones, compared with those of other creatures, are like bars of iron, Job 40:18. His back-bone is so strong that, though his tail be not large, yet he moves it like a cedar, with a commanding force, Job 40:17. Some understand it of the trunk of the elephant, for the word signifies any extreme part, and in that there is indeed a wonderful strength. So strong is the elephant in his back and loins, and the sinews of his thighs, that he will carry a large wooden tower, and a great number of fighting men in it. No animal whatsoever comes near the elephant for strength of body, which is the main thing insisted on in this description.
2.He feeds on the productions of the earth and does not prey upon other animals: He eats grass as an ox (Job 40:15), the mountains bring him forth food (Job 40:20), and the beasts of the field do not tremble before him nor flee from him, as from a lion, but they play about him, knowing they are in no danger from him. This may give us occasion, (1.) To acknowledge the goodness of God in ordering it so that a creature of such bulk, which requires so much food, should not feed upon flesh (for then multitudes must die to keep him alive), but should be content with the grass of the field, to prevent such destruction of lives as otherwise must have ensued. (2.) To commend living upon herbs and fruits without flesh, according to the original appointment of man's food, Gen 1:29. Even the strength of an elephant, as of a horse and an ox, may be supported without flesh; and why not that of a man? Though therefore we use the liberty God has allowed us, yet be not among riotous eaters of flesh, Pro 23:20. (3.) To commend a quiet and peaceable life. Who would not rather, like the elephant, have his neighbours easy and pleasant about him, than, like the lion, have them all afraid of him?
3.He lodges under the shady trees (Job 40:21), which cover him with their shadow (Job 40:22), where he has a free and open air to breathe in, while lions, which live by prey, when they would repose themselves, are obliged to retire into a close and dark den, to live therein, and to abide in the covert of that, Job 38:40. Those who are a terror to others cannot but be sometimes a terror to themselves too; but those will be easy who will let others be easy about them; and the reed and fens, and the willows of the brook, though a very weak and slender fortification, yet are sufficient for the defence and security of those who therefore dread no harm, because they design none.
4.That he is a very great and greedy drinker, not of wine or strong drink (to be greedy of that is peculiar to man, who by his drunkenness makes a beast of himself), but of fair water. (1.) His size is prodigious, and therefore he must have supply accordingly, Job 40:23. He drinks so much that one would think he could drink up a river, if you would give him time, and not hasten him. Or, when he drinks, he hasteth not, as those do that drink in fear; he is confident of his own strength and safety, and therefore makes no haste when he drinks, no more haste than good speed. (2.) His eye anticipates more than he can take; for, when he is very thirsty, having been long kept without water, he trusts that he can drink up Jordan in his mouth, and even takes it with his eyes, Job 40:24. As a covetous man causes his eyes to fly upon the wealth of this world, which he is greedy of, so this great beast is said to snatch, or draw up, even a river with his eyes. (3.) His nose has in it strength enough for both; for, when he goes greedily to drink with it, he pierces through snares or nets, which perhaps are laid in the waters to catch fish. He makes nothing of the difficulties that lie in his way, so great is his strength and so eager his appetite.
II. The use that is to be made of this description. We have taken a view of this mountain of a beast, this over-grown animal, which is here set before us, not merely as a show (as sometimes it is in our country) to satisfy our curiosity and to amuse us, but as an argument with us to humble ourselves before the great God; for, 1. He made this vast animal, which is so fearfully and wonderfully made; it is the work of his hands, the contrivance of his wisdom, the production of his power; it is behemoth which I made, Job 40:15. Whatever strength this, or any other creature, has, it is derived from God, who therefore must be acknowledged to have all power originally and infinitely in himself, and such an arm as it is not for us to contest with. This beast is here called the chief, in its kind, of the ways of God (Job 40:19), an eminent instance of the Creator's power and wisdom. Those that will peruse the accounts given by historians of the elephant will find that his capacities approach nearer to those of reason than the capacities of any other brute-creature whatsoever, and therefore he is fitly called the chief of the ways of God, in the inferior part of the creation, no creature below man being preferable to him. 2. He made him with man, as he made other four-footed beasts, on the same day with man (Gen 1:25, Gen 1:26), whereas the fish and fowl were made the day before; he made him to live and move on the same earth, in the same element, and therefore man and beast are said to be jointly preserved by divine Providence as fellow-commoners, Psa 36:6. "It is behemoth, which I made with thee; I made that beast as well as thee, and he does not quarrel with me; why then dost thou? Why shouldst thou demand peculiar favours because I made thee (Job 10:9), when I made the behemoth likewise with thee? I made thee as well as that beast, and therefore can as easily manage thee at pleasure as that beast, and will do it whether thou refuse or whether thou choose. I made him with thee, that thou mayest look upon him and receive instruction." We need not go far for proofs and instances of God's almighty power and sovereign dominion; they are near us, they are with us, they are under our eye wherever we are. 3. He that made him can make his sword to approach to him (Job 40:19), that is, the same hand that made him, notwithstanding his great bulk and strength, can unmake him again at pleasure and kill an elephant as easily as a worm or a fly, without any difficulty, and without the imputation either of waste or wrong. God that gave to all the creatures their being may take away the being he gave; for may he not do what he will with his own? And he can do it; he that has power to create with a word no doubt has power to destroy with a word, and can as easily speak the creature into nothing as at first he spoke it out of nothing. The behemoth perhaps is here intended (as well as the leviathan afterwards) to represent those proud tyrants and oppressors whom God had just now challenged Job to abase and bring down. They think themselves as well fortified against the judgments of God as the elephant with his bones of brass and iron; but he that made the soul of man knows all the avenues to it, and can make the sword of justice, his wrath, to approach to it, and touch it in the most tender and sensible part. He that framed the engine, and put the parts of it together, knows how to take it in pieces. Woe to him therefore that strives with his Maker, for he that made him has therefore power to make him miserable, and will not make him happy unless he will be ruled by him.
“And when he has gone up to a steep mountain, he causes joy to the quadrupeds in the deep.” This means the wild animals have raised their heads only when this animal has withdrawn to the mountains. If [God] has created these two enormous beasts, he did so in order that you might know that he may create all of them according to their own type. But God does not do so because his creation is oriented to provide what is useful to you. Notice how these beasts observe their proper laws: they haunt that part of the sea which is not navigable. But one may ask, What is their use? We ignore what is the mysterious utility of these monsters, but, if we want to take the risk of an explanation, we may say that they lead toward the knowledge of God.
2. In Holy Scripture, when ‘mountain’ is put in the singular number, there is designated sometimes the Incarnate Lord, sometimes Holy Church, sometimes the covenant of God, sometimes the apostate angel, sometimes any particular heretic. But when ‘mountains’ are named in the plural number, there is expressed sometimes the high estate of Apostles and Prophets, but sometimes the pride of worldly powers. For a mountain designates the Lord, as it is written, And in the last days the mountain of the Lord’s house shall be established in the top of the mountains. [Is. 2, 2] For the mountain on the top of the mountains is the Incarnate Lord, transcending the loftiness of Prophets. Again, by a mountain is designated Holy Church, as it is written, They that trust in the Lord are as mount Sion. [Ps. 125, 1] For Sion means looking out, and by this looking out is typified the Church contemplating God. Again, by a mountain is expressed the covenant of God, as Habakkuk says, God will come from Libanus, and the Holy One from the shady and thick mountain. [Hab. 3, 3] For He Who by the pages of His covenant has promised that He will come, came, as it were, from that by which He held Himself, as it were, under a promise. And this covenant is well said to be a shady and thick mountain, because it is darkened by the thick obscurities of allegories. Again, by a mountain is designated the apostate angel, as is said to preachers concerning the ancient enemy under the character of the king of Babylon, Lift ye up a banner upon the gloomy mountain. For holy preachers lift up a banner above the gloomy mountain, when they exalt the virtue of the cross against the pride of Satan, which is frequently concealed under the mist of hypocrisy. Again, by a mountain any kind of heretic is expressed, as the Psalmist says with the voice of the Church, In the Lord put I my trust: how say ye to my soul, Pass over as a sparrow to the mountain? [Ps. 11, 1] For when a faithful soul is bidden to abandon unity, and to trust in the swelling doctrine of an heretical preacher, it is persuaded, as it were, to forsake the Lord, and to migrate to the mountain. Again, by mountains is designated the loftiness of Apostles and Prophets, as it is written, Thy righteousness is like the mountains of God. [Ps. 36, 6] And it is said by the voice of Paul, That we might be made the righteousness of God in Him. [2 Cor. 5, 21] Or as the Psalmist again says by the voice of the Church in hope, I have lifted up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence will come my help. [Ps. 121, 1] Again, by mountains is expressed the pride of secular powers, of whom the Psalmist says, The hills melted like wax from the presence of the Lord: [Ps. 97, 5] because many, who had before been swollen up with stubborn pride, were melted through penitence with great fear, when God was manifested in the flesh. Or as the same Prophet says again, They go up, mountains and go down, plains. [Ps. 104, 8] For many persecutors of the Lord come against Him in pride, but return from Him in humility. And these go up, mountains, by the swelling of power; but come down, plains, namely, by becoming level, through acknowledgment of sin.
3. But because some continue in the height of their pride, and disdain to bend humbly to the Divine commands, and that, because they cease not to think and perpetrate wickedness according to the desire of the ancient enemy; it is rightly said of Behemoth in this place; The mountains bring him forth grass. For the proud men of the world bring forth grass to this Behemoth, because they refresh him by that which they work wickedly. They bring forth grass to this Behemoth, because they offer him their unstable and treacherous pleasures. For men, says the Apostle, shall be lovers of their own selves. [2 Tim. 3, 2] And he summed up their description, saying; Lovers of pleasures more than of God. [ib. 4] What then is the grass of the mountains, except unstable pleasure, which is begotten from the heart of the proud? For if they did not despise God in their pride, they would never commit so many wantonnesses [‘lubrica’] in their lasciviousness, by which grass this Behemoth is doubtless fed; because by hungering in them after the punishment of eternal death, he is pampered with their evil habits. For the proud of this world, even if ever, hindered by the course of God’s dispensation, they desist from fulfilling their wicked works, yet multiply wickednesses in thought; at one time to make themselves appear superior to others in wealth and honour; at another, to exercise this very power in endeavouring to injure others; at another, to melt away in light deeds and pleasures, when influenced by wanton emotions. For since they never think of doing right, but always wrong, things, from the favours they have received from God, what else do they but fight against God with His own gifts? Because then this Behemoth always discerns in the minds of the proud his own desires, he finds, as it were, grass on the mountains, with which he replenishes and swells the belly of his malice. But it is well subjoined,
All the beasts of the field will play there.
4. What are designated by ‘beasts’ but unclean spirits, what by the ‘field,’ but the present world? Whence it is said against Ephraim, of the chief of the malignant spirits himself; The beasts of the field shall tear them. [Hos. 13, 8] Or as Isaiah says; No evil beast shall go up thereon. [Is. 35, 9] But that the world is understood by the word field, the word of the Lord witnesses in the Gospel, which says, But the field is the world. [Matt. 13, 38] The beasts of the field, then, play in the grass of the mountains, because in this world the devils, who have been cast forth from above, delight in the evil doings of the proud. The beasts play in the grass, when the reprobate spirits draw away the hearts of men into unlawful thoughts. Is it not sport for evil spirits, to deceive at one time by false promises the minds of men which were made after the image of God, at another to make mock at them with empty terrors, at another to urge upon them transitory pleasures as if lasting, at another to make light of lasting punishments as if transitory? He had doubtless feared being the sport of these beasts, who said, O my God, I trust in Thee, let me not be ashamed, let not mine enemies make a jest of me. [Ps. 25, 2] Because then the heart of the proud is overcome by every sin, so as to be ready for every malignant spirit which assails it with evil thoughts, it is rightly said of the grass of the mountains, All the beasts of the field will play there. For since the proud pass over no wickedness in their thoughts, there is no beast of the field which is not satiated with the grass of these mountains. For even if at any time they avoid the lust of the flesh, yet they commit the sin of inward lust by boasting of their very chastity. If at any time they do not covetously grasp at any thing without them, they are by no means free from the allurement of avarice; for though they are not eager after any thing, yet they strive to grasp at praise, for their forbearance, from human applause. The mountains, therefore, bring forth grass for this Behemoth, and all the beasts of the field play there, because every malignant spirit feeds at greater liberty in the heart of the proud, in proportion as every sin is generated from pride. But since we have heard what this Behemoth feeds on, we must now needs hear where it is that he rests meanwhile through his evil desire.
The words “the shadows surround it.” Because of the size of the animal, [the author says], anywhere it goes, it casts shadows around it. The words “the crows like a torrent surround it.” [This is said] because the habit of these birds is to approach and croak anytime they see something terrifying.
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SUMMARY
Job 40:20, a powerful declaration within God's discourse to Job from the whirlwind, vividly portrays the Creator's boundless power and meticulous provision. This verse specifically describes how Behemoth, a creature of immense strength and scale, is divinely sustained by the very mountains, thriving in an environment where even other wild animals find peace and freedom. It serves as a profound illustration of God's absolute sovereignty over all creation, even its most formidable elements, emphasizing His wisdom and benevolent oversight in the intricate order of the natural world.
CONTEXT
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
Job 40:20 employs several powerful literary devices to convey its profound message. Personification is clearly evident in the phrase "the mountains bring him forth food," attributing an active, nurturing, and almost intentional role to inanimate geographical features. This suggests a living, responsive creation that actively participates in God's command and provision. The verse also utilizes vivid Imagery, painting a compelling picture of a vast, wild, yet surprisingly harmonious landscape where a colossal creature is abundantly fed and other animals frolic in peace. This imagery evokes a sense of awe at the sheer scale, intricate order, and benevolent nature of God's creation. Furthermore, there is an element of Hyperbole in the description of Behemoth's sustenance. While mountains do provide vegetation, the phrasing "bring him forth food" suggests an almost miraculous, overflowing provision commensurate with Behemoth's immense size, underscoring the boundless nature of God's care and the inexhaustible resources at His disposal. Finally, the verse presents a subtle yet significant Contrast between the untamed power and formidable presence of Behemoth and the peaceful, carefree "play" of the other beasts. This contrast brilliantly demonstrates God's unique ability to order even the wild and potentially chaotic aspects of His creation into a state of balance, harmony, and well-being.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Job 40:20 offers profound theological insights into God's character and His relationship with creation. It serves as a powerful testament to God's universal providence, demonstrating that His meticulous care extends to every living thing, regardless of its size, wildness, or perceived insignificance. If God meticulously provides for a creature as immense and untamed as Behemoth, ensuring its sustenance from the vastness of the mountains and a habitat where other wild beasts can "play" securely, then His care for humanity, whom He created in His own image and loves deeply, is immeasurably greater. This verse challenges human-centric views of creation, reminding us that all life is sustained by God's wisdom and power, not just what directly benefits humanity. It reinforces the biblical truth that God's wisdom is displayed not only in the grand acts of creation but also in the intricate, ongoing sustenance of every creature, highlighting His absolute sovereignty and benevolent oversight of the entire cosmos. It calls us to a deeper trust in His all-encompassing care.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Job 40:20 offers a powerful invitation to trust in God's unfailing provision and sovereign care, especially when facing overwhelming circumstances, much like Job himself. If God's wisdom and power are so vast that He can effortlessly sustain a creature as immense and wild as Behemoth, ensuring its food from the rugged mountains and a peaceful habitat for all the beasts, how much more can we trust Him to meet our needs? This verse encourages us to release our anxieties and fears, recognizing that our Heavenly Father, who manages the intricate ecosystems of the wild with such meticulous detail, is fully capable of providing for every aspect of our lives. It reminds us that true security is found not in our own efforts or limited understanding, but in surrendering to the flawless plan and infinite wisdom of the Creator. We are called to observe the natural world and learn from God's perfect management, finding peace in His benevolent oversight and acknowledging that His ways are far beyond our comprehension, yet always for our ultimate good. This perspective cultivates humility, gratitude, and a profound sense of peace in the face of life's uncertainties.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What is Behemoth, and why is it significant in this context?
Answer: Behemoth is a colossal creature described by God in Job 40:15-24. While its exact identity is debated—often interpreted as a hippopotamus, elephant, or a creature with mythological overtones representing primal power—its significance lies not in its precise zoological classification, but in its role as a powerful demonstration of God's immense power and sovereignty. Behemoth is presented as a creature so mighty that only God can control it, embodying the untamed forces of creation. By highlighting His absolute mastery over such a formidable beast, God underscores His ability to order and sustain even what seems uncontrollable, thereby challenging Job's limited perspective and reinforcing God's ultimate authority over all creation.
How do "mountains bring him forth food" for Behemoth?
Answer: The phrase "the mountains bring him forth food" is a poetic and vivid expression of God's abundant provision through the natural world. It doesn't imply that mountains literally sprout prepared meals, but rather that the vast, rugged, and uncultivated mountainous regions provide ample vegetation and resources necessary to sustain a creature of Behemoth's immense size. This imagery emphasizes the natural, self-sustaining ecosystem designed and maintained by God's hand. It signifies that the entire wilderness, orchestrated by the Creator, yields sufficient sustenance for Behemoth, highlighting God's meticulous design and boundless provision for all His creatures without human intervention, as also seen in Psalm 147:9. It speaks to the inherent productivity of God's creation under His divine oversight.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The divine provision for Behemoth in Job 40:20, where the mountains yield food and wild beasts play in harmony, finds its ultimate fulfillment and deeper meaning in Jesus Christ. He is not merely a recipient of God's provision but the very agent and embodiment of it. As the one through whom "all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible... all things were created through him and for him" (Colossians 1:16), Christ is the divine architect and sustainer of the very ecosystems that feed Behemoth. His teachings consistently point to God's meticulous care, assuring His disciples that if God feeds the birds and clothes the lilies, He will surely provide for His children, for they are of more value than many sparrows (Matthew 6:26-30). Furthermore, the "play" of the beasts in Behemoth's habitat foreshadows the peace and harmony of the new creation, a reality inaugurated by Christ's redemptive work. He is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29), bringing reconciliation not only between God and humanity but also ultimately restoring the created order to its intended shalom, where "the wolf shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard lie down with the young goat" (Isaiah 11:6). In Christ, God's sovereign power over creation is perfectly displayed, and His abundant provision culminates in the gift of eternal life and spiritual nourishment, for He is the "bread of life" who satisfies every hunger and thirst (John 6:35).