◄ Job 39 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
The LORD Speaks of His Creation 1“Do you know when mountain goats give birth? Have you watched the doe bear her fawn? 2Can you count the months they are pregnant? Do you know the time they give birth? 3They crouch down and bring forth their young; they deliver their newborn. 4Their young ones thrive and grow up in the open field; they leave and do not return. 5Who set the wild donkey free? Who released the swift donkey from the harness? 6I made the wilderness his home and the salt flats his dwelling. 7He scorns the tumult of the city and never hears the shouts of a driver. 8He roams the mountains for pasture, searching for any green thing. 9Will the wild ox consent to serve you? Will he stay by your manger at night? 10Can you hold him to the furrow with a harness? Will he plow the valleys behind you? 11Can you rely on his great strength? Will you leave your hard work to him? 12Can you trust him to bring in your grain and gather it to your threshing floor? 13The wings of the ostrich flap joyfully, but cannot match the pinionsa and feathers of the stork. 14For she leaves her eggs on the ground and lets them warm in the sand. 15She forgets that a foot may crush them, or a wild animal may trample them. 16She treats her young harshly, as if not her own, with no concern that her labor was in vain. 17For God has deprived her of wisdom; He has not endowed her with understanding. 18Yet when she proudly spreads her wings, she laughs at the horse and its rider. 19Do you give strength to the horse or adorn his neck with a mane? 20Do you make him leap like a locust, striking terror with his proud snorting? 21He paws in the valley and rejoices in his strength; he charges into battle. 22He laughs at fear, frightened of nothing; he does not turn back from the sword. 23A quiver rattles at his side, along with a flashing spear and lance.b 24Trembling with excitement, he devours the distance; he cannot stand still when the ram’s horn sounds. 25At the blast of the horn, he snorts with fervor.c He catches the scent of battle from afar, the shouts of captains and the cry of war. 26Does the hawk take flight by your understanding and spread his wings toward the south? 27Does the eagle soar at your command and make his nest on high? 28He dwells on a cliff and lodges there; his stronghold is on a rocky crag. 29From there he spies out food; his eyes see it from afar. 30His young ones feast on blood; and where the slain are, there he is.” Footnotes: 13 a Pinions are the outer parts of a bird’s wings, including the flight feathers. 23 b Or javelin 25 c Or he snorts, ‘Aha!’ Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Job 39 Summary The LORD Speaks of His Creation Verses 1–4 – Mountain Goats and Deer God asks Job if he understands the hidden timing of mountain goats giving birth and the calving of deer. These elusive creatures deliver their young without human help, and their offspring quickly become independent—highlighting the Lord’s quiet oversight of remote life that Job never sees. Verses 5–8 – Wild Donkey The Lord turns to the wild donkey, “free from the city” and unrestrained by harness. No one can make it serve or hear the “driver’s shout.” It finds its own pasture in the salt lands, symbolizing fearless liberty outside human control. Verses 9–12 – Wild Ox Next is the wild ox (re’em, likely the extinct aurochs). God asks if Job can bind this massive beast to a plow or trust it with his harvest. The implied answer is no; its raw power resists domestication, showing limits to human mastery. Verses 13–18 – Ostrich The ostrich waves its wings yet cannot fly like the stork. It lays eggs in the sand and may seem unmindful if they break, but when it runs, it “laughs at horse and rider.” Even in what looks like folly, God grants speed that outpaces noble animals. Verses 19–25 – War Horse God then describes the war horse, asking Job if he endowed it with “strength” and “mane.” The animal paws the valley, rejoices in battle, charges into weapons, and “trembles not at the trumpet.” Divine design turns the horse into a fearless partner of warriors—yet still subject to God, not man. Verses 26–30 – Hawk and Eagle Finally, God questions Job about birds of prey. Does human wisdom cause the hawk to “spread its wings toward the south”? Does Job command the eagle to mount high, build nests on cliffs, spy prey from afar, and feed its young on blood? The answer is no, underscoring God’s governance of the skies. Job 39 serves as a majestic discourse, in which God poses profound questions to Job about the complexity and majesty of His creation. God challenges Job, asking him whether he can comprehend the nature of various wild creatures. Through a captivating exploration of different animal species, the chapter serves as a testament to the omnipotence and omniscience of God, revealing the vast gulf between divine wisdom and human understanding. Context within Job Job 38–42 contains the Lord’s two speeches. Chapter 39 is the middle of Speech One, a rapid-fire tour of creation that humbles Job. God uses everyday yet untamed creatures to show that He manages a universe far more complex than Job’s personal suffering. The point is not to belittle Job but to enlarge his perspective. Creation’s Witness vs. Human Limits • Each animal thrives without human oversight, revealing divine care that precedes and transcends human involvement (see Psalm 104:10–27). • The rhetorical questions expose Job’s ignorance: “Do you know… Can you… Will they obey you?” (cf. Job 38:4). • Romans 1:20 later echoes this theme—creation displays God’s invisible qualities so clearly that people are “without excuse.” Animal Portraits and Lessons 1. Mountain Goats & Deer – Secret birthplaces stress God’s intimate knowledge (Psalm 29:9). – Swift independence teaches that God equips life stages beyond parental control. 2. Wild Donkey – Symbol of stubborn freedom (Jeremiah 2:24). – God values liberty but remains sovereign; He restrained Ishmael’s “wild donkey” nature via covenant (Genesis 16:12; 17:20). 3. Wild Ox (Aurochs) – Referred to for raw strength in Numbers 23:22; Deuteronomy 33:17. – Though unmatched by humans, it is still “His” creation, not autonomous. 4. Ostrich – Cited again in Lamentations 4:3 for neglected young. – Appears foolish, yet possesses astonishing sprint speed (up to 40 mph), reminding that human judgment of “wisdom” can be shortsighted. 5. War Horse – Parallels Proverbs 21:31, “The horse is prepared for the day of battle, but victory belongs to the LORD.” – Military power has limits; God alone grants outcomes (Psalm 20:7). 6. Hawk & Eagle – Echoes Proverbs 30:19’s wonder at the “way of an eagle in the sky.” – Isaiah 40:31 uses the eagle to illustrate renewed strength from trusting God. Historical and Archaeological Insights • Ancient Near Eastern art often depicts wild goats leaping on cliffs, showing familiarity with their habitats. • Clay seal impressions from Mesopotamia portray aurochs with exaggerated horns, matching the formidable re’em image. • Ostrich feathers were luxury items in Egypt, confirming the bird’s fame for size and speed. • Horse-drawn chariots from 2nd-millennium BC reliefs highlight the war horse’s importance. • Hittite and Assyrian records mention hawk and eagle divination, but Job 39 credits their abilities to the Creator, not omens. Word and Phrase Notes • “Calve” (v.1) translates Hebrew yalad, normal term for giving birth—emphasizing ordinary processes that still amaze. • “Wild donkey” (pere) denotes a completely untamed species, not a runaway domestic. • “Wild ox” (re’em) likely refers to Bos primigenius, extinct by Roman times. • “Petereth rênnîm” (v.13) can read “stork-like pinions,” contrasting ostrich wings with truly flying birds. • “Snorts” (v.20) paints the war horse’s excitement; Hebrew nachar, used of trumpeting animals. Theological Thread • God’s sovereignty: He alone sustains life and allocates abilities. • Human humility: If Job cannot manage animals, he cannot manage cosmic justice (Job 40:2). • Trust: As Jesus later says, “Look at the birds of the air” (Matthew 6:26). God’s care invites reliance. New Testament Connections • Matthew 6:26–30 and Luke 12:24–27 echo Job 39’s call to consider animals and trust God. • James 3:7 notes humanity’s partial success in taming creatures, reinforcing Job 39’s claim that some remain beyond us. • Revelation 19:11 portrays Christ on a war horse, a picture foreshadowed by the fearless steed of Job 39. Application for Today • Observe creation: Field-study God’s handiwork to rekindle awe. • Relinquish control: Recognize God’s unseen governance in daily uncertainties. • Celebrate diversity: Each animal’s unique trait reflects a distinct facet of the Creator’s wisdom. • Rely on God’s bigger plan: Personal trials fit into a universe carefully watched over by the same Lord who times the birth of mountain goats. Connections to Additional Scriptures Psalm 104:24-25 How many are Your works, O LORD! In wisdom You have made them all; the earth is full of Your creatures. Matthew 6:26 Look at the birds of the air: They do not sow or reap or gather into barns, and yet your Heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Romans 1:20 For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood from His workmanship, so that men are without excuse. Teaching Points God's Sovereignty in Creation Job 39 emphasizes God's control over the natural world. Verses 1-4 describe the mountain goats and deer, highlighting God's intimate knowledge and care for even the most hidden aspects of creation. The Wildness of Creation Verses 5-8 speak of the wild donkey, illustrating the freedom and independence that God grants to His creatures, which humans cannot tame or control. The Strength and Majesty of Animals Verses 9-12 discuss the wild ox, a symbol of strength and power, which cannot be harnessed by human effort, pointing to God's unmatched strength. The Unique Design of Each Creature Verses 13-18 describe the ostrich, a creature with seemingly foolish behavior, yet perfectly designed by God for its purpose, reminding us that God's wisdom surpasses human judgment. The Power and Fearlessness of the Horse Verses 19-25 portray the horse, a creature of great power and fearlessness, used in battle, symbolizing the might and courage that God instills in His creation. The Majesty of Birds of Prey Verses 26-30 focus on the hawk and the eagle, creatures that soar high and hunt with precision, demonstrating God's provision and the natural order He established. Practical Applications Trust in God's Wisdom Just as God cares for and governs the animal kingdom, we can trust His wisdom and sovereignty in our lives, even when we do not understand His ways. Appreciate God's Creation Take time to observe and appreciate the beauty and complexity of the natural world, recognizing it as a testament to God's creative power. Humility Before God Acknowledge our limitations and the vastness of God's knowledge, leading us to a posture of humility and reverence. Recognize God's Provision Just as God provides for the needs of animals, we can be assured of His provision in our lives, encouraging us to rely on Him. People 1. God The speaker in Job 39, who is addressing Job. God is depicted as the Creator and Sustainer of all life, demonstrating His wisdom and power through the description of various animals. The Hebrew name for God used in this context is often "Yahweh" (יהוה), emphasizing His covenantal relationship with His people. 2. Job Although not directly mentioned in the text of Job 39, Job is the recipient of God's discourse. He is a man of faith undergoing severe trials, and God is responding to Job's earlier questions and complaints about his suffering. The chapter itself does not mention other human persons, but it does describe various animals, illustrating God's sovereignty and wisdom in creation. These animals serve as examples to Job of God's intricate design and care for the world, encouraging Job to trust in God's greater plan and understanding. Places 1. Mountains The mountains are mentioned in relation to the wild goats and deer. In Job 39:1, it says, "Do you know when the mountain goats give birth?" The Hebrew word for mountains here is "הָרִים" (harim), which refers to elevated terrain where these animals are known to dwell. 2. Desert The desert is referenced in the context of the wild donkey. In Job 39:5, it states, "Who set the wild donkey free? Who released the swift donkey from the harness?" The wild donkey is associated with the desert, a place of freedom and untamed nature. The Hebrew word used is "מִדְבָּר" (midbar), indicating a wilderness or uninhabited land. 3. Salt Land The salt land is mentioned in Job 39:6, "whose home I have made the wilderness, and the salt flats his dwelling." This refers to barren, salty areas where the wild donkey roams. The Hebrew term "מְלֵחָה" (melachah) is used, which denotes a salty or barren land. Events 1. The Birth of Mountain Goats and Deer God questions Job about his knowledge of the timing and process of mountain goats and deer giving birth. This emphasizes God's intimate understanding and control over the natural world. (Job 39:1-4) 2. The Freedom of the Wild Donkey God describes the wild donkey, which He has made free and untamed, living in the wilderness and searching for pasture. This highlights the independence and provision God grants to His creatures. (Job 39:5-8) 3. The Strength of the Wild Ox God challenges Job on whether he can harness the wild ox for labor, underscoring the strength and untamable nature of this creature, which only God can control. (Job 39:9-12) 4. The Ostrich's Lack of Wisdom The ostrich is depicted as lacking wisdom, as it leaves its eggs on the ground, yet it is also described as having great speed. This paradox illustrates God's diverse creation, where wisdom and strength are distributed according to His design. (Job 39:13-18) 5. The Might of the Horse God describes the horse's strength, fearlessness, and readiness for battle, showcasing its majestic power and the intricate design God has instilled in it. (Job 39:19-25) 6. The Flight of the Hawk and Eagle The chapter concludes with God speaking of the hawk and the eagle, which soar high and make their nests in lofty places. This highlights God's sovereignty over the creatures of the sky and their instinctual behaviors. (Job 39:26-30) Each of these events serves to remind Job of God's unparalleled wisdom and the complexity of His creation, which is beyond human understanding. The original Hebrew text uses vivid imagery and specific terms to convey the characteristics and behaviors of these animals, emphasizing the Creator's intimate involvement with His creation. Lessons from Job 39 1. Marvel at God's Creation In Job 39, we are invited to witness the majesty of God's creation. From the mountain goats to the wild donkeys, each creature is crafted with purpose and precision. "Do you know when the mountain goats give birth?" (Job 39:1). This question reminds us of the intricate details God has woven into the fabric of life. Take a moment each day to appreciate the world around you, recognizing the Creator's hand in every detail. 2. Embrace the Mystery of God's Wisdom God's wisdom is beyond our understanding, as illustrated by His care for the wild animals. "Who let the wild donkey go free?" (Job 39:5). This rhetorical question highlights that God's ways are higher than ours. Trust in His wisdom, even when life seems perplexing. Embrace the mystery, knowing that His plans are perfect. 3. Recognize Your Limitations Job 39 humbles us by pointing out our limitations. We are reminded that we do not control the natural world. "Will the wild ox consent to serve you?" (Job 39:9). This verse encourages us to acknowledge our dependence on God. Recognizing our limitations can lead to a deeper reliance on His strength and guidance. 4. Celebrate God's Provision The chapter showcases God's provision for all creatures. "Who provides food for the raven when its young cry out to God?" (Job 39:3). Just as He cares for the birds, He provides for us. Celebrate His provision in your life, and let it inspire gratitude and trust in His continued care. 5. Find Joy in God's Creativity God's creativity is on full display in Job 39. From the ostrich to the horse, each animal is unique and serves a purpose. "The wings of the ostrich flap joyfully" (Job 39:13). Find joy in the diversity of creation, and let it remind you of the infinite creativity of our Creator. 6. Trust in God's Sovereignty The chapter emphasizes God's sovereignty over all things. "Does the hawk take flight by your understanding?" (Job 39:26). This question underscores that God is in control. Trust in His sovereignty, knowing that He holds the universe in His hands and orchestrates all things for His glory. 7. Appreciate the Beauty of God's Design Job 39 invites us to appreciate the beauty of God's design. The strength of the horse and the flight of the eagle are testaments to His craftsmanship. "He laughs at fear, afraid of nothing" (Job 39:22). Appreciate the beauty around you, and let it draw you closer to the Designer. 8. Learn from the Animals The animals in Job 39 teach us valuable lessons. The wild donkey's freedom and the horse's strength are metaphors for spiritual truths. "He paws in the valley and rejoices in his strength" (Job 39:21). Learn from these creatures, and apply their lessons to your walk with God. 9. Reflect on God's Care for the Details God's attention to detail is evident in His care for each creature. "Do you give the horse his strength?" (Job 39:19). Reflect on how God cares for the details of your life. Trust that He is involved in every aspect, from the grand to the minute. 10. Stand in Awe of God's Majesty Ultimately, Job 39 calls us to stand in awe of God's majesty. The chapter is a reminder of His power and glory. "Does the eagle soar at your command?" (Job 39:27). Let this awe inspire worship and a deeper relationship with the One who created it all. Stand in awe, and let it transform your perspective on life. Topics 1. The Birth and Freedom of Wild Animals Job 39:1-4 discusses the birth and independence of wild animals, such as mountain goats and deer. The passage highlights God's knowledge and care for these creatures, emphasizing His sovereignty over creation. The Hebrew word for "wild" (פרא, ^pere^) underscores the untamed nature of these animals, reflecting God's design and provision. 2. The Wild Donkey's Independence In Job 39:5-8, the wild donkey is described as free from human control, living in the wilderness. This illustrates God's provision for creatures that thrive outside human influence. The Hebrew term for "wild donkey" (ערוד, ^arod^) signifies its untamed and independent spirit, symbolizing freedom granted by God. 3. The Strength and Untamable Nature of the Wild Ox Job 39:9-12 speaks of the wild ox, which cannot be domesticated or used for labor. This highlights the strength and autonomy of certain animals, pointing to God's creative power. The Hebrew word for "wild ox" (רְאֵם, ^re'em^) suggests a creature of great strength and majesty, beyond human control. 4. The Ostrich's Unique Characteristics Verses 13-18 describe the ostrich, focusing on its lack of wisdom yet remarkable speed. This paradox showcases God's diverse creation, where each creature has its own role and abilities. The Hebrew root for "ostrich" (יַעֲנָה, ^ya'anah^) reflects its distinctiveness and the Creator's intentional design. 5. The Horse's Strength and Valor in Battle Job 39:19-25 portrays the horse as a symbol of strength and courage, especially in battle. This passage emphasizes the horse's fearlessness and readiness for war, attributes given by God. The Hebrew word for "horse" (סוּס, ^sus^) is associated with power and swiftness, illustrating divine craftsmanship. 6. The Hawk's Flight and the Eagle's Nest In Job 39:26-30, the focus shifts to birds of prey, like the hawk and eagle, highlighting their instinctual behaviors and God-given abilities. The Hebrew term for "hawk" (נֵץ, ^netz^) and "eagle" (נֶשֶׁר, ^nesher^) convey the majesty and precision of these birds, pointing to God's wisdom in creation. Each topic in Job 39 reflects the overarching theme of God's sovereignty and wisdom in the natural world, as He governs and sustains all creatures according to His divine purpose. Themes 1. God's Sovereignty Over Creation Job 39 emphasizes God's supreme authority and control over the natural world. The chapter begins with God questioning Job about the birth and life of mountain goats and deer, highlighting His intimate knowledge and governance of all creatures. This theme underscores the Hebrew concept of "Yahweh" as the sovereign Creator. 2. The Mystery of God's Wisdom The chapter illustrates the mystery and depth of God's wisdom, which is beyond human understanding. Verses like Job 39:26, "Does the hawk take flight by your understanding and spread his wings toward the south?" emphasize that God's wisdom in creation is inscrutable, aligning with the Hebrew word "ḥokmah" (wisdom). 3. The Independence of Wild Animals God describes various wild animals, such as the wild donkey and the wild ox, which live independently of human control. This theme highlights the freedom and autonomy God has instilled in His creation, as seen in Job 39:5, "Who set the wild donkey free? Who released the swift donkey from the harness?" 4. God's Provision for All Creatures The chapter also touches on God's provision for all His creatures, ensuring their survival and well-being. For instance, Job 39:8 speaks of the wild donkey finding pasture, "He roams the mountains for pasture, searching for any green thing." This reflects the Hebrew understanding of God's providential care. 5. The Uniqueness of Each Creature Job 39 highlights the unique characteristics and roles of different animals, such as the strength of the horse in battle (Job 39:19-25) and the wisdom of the ostrich (Job 39:13-18). This theme points to the diversity and intentionality in God's creation, resonating with the Hebrew idea of "min" (kind or species). 6. Human Limitations in Understanding Creation Throughout the chapter, God challenges Job's understanding of the natural world, emphasizing human limitations. This theme is evident in verses like Job 39:1, "Do you know when the mountain goats give birth?" It serves as a reminder of the finite nature of human knowledge compared to God's infinite understanding. Prayer Points Praise for God's Creation Thank God for the beauty and diversity of His creation, acknowledging His wisdom and power. Trust in God's Sovereignty Pray for a deeper trust in God's plan and provision, even when circumstances are challenging. Humility and Reverence Ask God to cultivate a heart of humility and reverence, recognizing our place in His creation. Awareness of God's Presence Pray for an increased awareness of God's presence and activity in the world around us, leading to a greater appreciation of His handiwork. Answering Tough Questions 1. In Job 39:9, the text mentions a “wild ox” (sometimes “unicorn”); how can this be reconciled with any known species or historical evidence? 2. In Job 39:13–17, the ostrich is depicted as neglecting her eggs; does modern scientific observation contradict this portrayal? 3. In Job 39:19–25, the horse is described as fearless in battle; is this a poetic exaggeration or is there historical evidence supporting such behavior? 4. In Job 39:26–30, the hawk and eagle are said to fly by God’s wisdom; how does this align with scientific explanations of bird migration and hunting patterns? 5. Does the representation of these animals in Job 39 conflict with other biblical accounts of creation or does it harmonize with the broader biblical narrative? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does God's interrogation of Job about nature's intricacies challenge our perception of our own understanding and control? 2. What does the portrayal of various animals in this chapter tell us about the diversity of God's creation? 3. How can we apply the principle of acknowledging our limitations in our daily lives? 4. What are the differences in the characteristics of the animals God chose to discuss? How does this variety reflect God's wisdom in creation? 5. How does Job 39 illustrate the theme of human ignorance of the divine? 6. How does this chapter deepen our understanding of the theme of Divine Intervention? 7. What is the significance of God pointing out the strength and freedom of wild animals to Job? 8. What does the description of the ostrich teach us about the balance of wisdom and folly in God's creation? 9. How does the portrayal of the horse embody the idea of strength and courage in adversity? 10. What does the illustration of the hawk and eagle tell us about the vision and perspective in our spiritual life? 11. How can Job 39 guide us in responding to life's trials and tribulations? 12. How can the understanding of God's wisdom and power in Job 39 help us deal with the problems in our society? 13. How does the majesty of nature in this chapter inspire us in our worship and relationship with God? 14. How can Job 39 influence our view on environmental conservation and animal rights? 15. In what ways can we see the parallels between the animal behaviors described in Job 39 and human behavior in our current society? 16. How can we incorporate the lessons learned from Job 39 in our roles as leaders, parents, or friends? 17. How does the theme of the inscrutability of God’s wisdom play out in our personal life, community, and the world at large? 18. Can you recall a personal situation where you felt as perplexed as Job in the face of God’s creation? How did you deal with it? 19. How can we keep a humble heart in a world that constantly pushes for human achievements and understanding? 20. What role does faith play in accepting our limitations and embracing the vastness of God's wisdom as presented in Job 39? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions