Job 39:17

For God has deprived her of wisdom; He has not endowed her with understanding.

Study Bible

For God
This phrase establishes the divine authority and sovereignty of God. In the Hebrew text, the word used for God is "אֱלֹהִים" (Elohim), which is a plural form often used to denote the majesty and power of the one true God. This highlights the belief in God's ultimate control and purpose in creation, emphasizing that all wisdom and understanding originate from Him.

has deprived her
The Hebrew root for "deprived" is "נָשָׁה" (nashah), which means to forget or deprive. This suggests an intentional act by God, indicating that the lack of wisdom is not accidental but part of His divine plan. It reflects the idea that God, in His infinite wisdom, has chosen to withhold certain attributes from some of His creatures, underscoring His sovereignty and the mystery of His creation.

of wisdom
The word "wisdom" in Hebrew is "חָכְמָה" (chokmah), which encompasses not just knowledge but also the skillful application of knowledge in life. In the context of Job, this highlights the theme that human understanding is limited and that true wisdom is a gift from God. It serves as a reminder of the limitations placed on creation and the need for humility before God's greater wisdom.

He has not endowed her
The phrase "has not endowed" comes from the Hebrew "חָנַן" (chanan), meaning to show favor or to bestow. This indicates that the lack of understanding is not due to any deficiency in the creature itself but is a result of God's deliberate choice. It reflects the theological perspective that God distributes His gifts according to His will and purpose.

with understanding
The Hebrew word for "understanding" is "תְּבוּנָה" (tevunah), which refers to insight or discernment. This term is often associated with the ability to perceive and comprehend the deeper truths of life. In the context of this verse, it underscores the idea that certain creatures are not given the capacity for deep insight, which serves as a metaphor for human limitations in grasping the full scope of God's creation and purposes.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Job
A man of great faith and patience, who undergoes severe trials and questions God's justice.

2. God
The Creator, who speaks to Job out of the whirlwind, highlighting His sovereignty and wisdom.

3. Ostrich
The animal referenced in this verse, known for its lack of wisdom and understanding, used as an example by God to illustrate His creation's diversity and His control over it.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Creation
The diversity in creation, including the ostrich's lack of wisdom, reflects God's sovereign design and purpose. We are reminded to trust in His wisdom, even when we do not understand His ways.

Human Limitations and Divine Wisdom
Just as the ostrich lacks wisdom, humans have limitations in understanding God's plans. We are called to seek wisdom from God, acknowledging our dependence on Him.

Humility Before God
Recognizing that God has not endowed every creature with the same abilities should lead us to humility. We should not boast in our own understanding but rather submit to God's greater wisdom.

Purpose in God's Design
Every aspect of creation, even those that seem flawed or lacking, serves a purpose in God's grand design. We should find comfort in knowing that God has a plan for everything, including our own lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the example of the ostrich in Job 39:17 illustrate the limitations of human wisdom compared to God's wisdom?

2. In what ways can recognizing our own limitations lead us to a deeper trust in God's sovereignty?

3. How can we apply the lesson of humility from this verse in our daily interactions with others?

4. What are some areas in your life where you need to seek God's wisdom rather than relying on your own understanding?

5. How does understanding God's purpose in creation help you find peace in situations that seem confusing or chaotic?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 2:6
This verse emphasizes that wisdom and understanding come from the Lord, contrasting the ostrich's lack of these qualities with the divine source of true wisdom.

Isaiah 55:8-9
These verses remind us that God's thoughts and ways are higher than ours, aligning with the theme of God's sovereignty and the limitations of human understanding.

1 Corinthians 1:25
This passage speaks to the wisdom of God being greater than human wisdom, reinforcing the idea that what may seem foolish to us is part of God's perfect plan.