Job 39:14

"“The wings of the ostrich wave proudly, but are they the feathers and plumage of love?"

Key Reflection

In Job 39:14, the imagery of the ostrich's proud wings serves as a contrast to the notion of loving care. The verse highlights how the ostrich's wing movements are robust and confident, yet lacking in the tender affection associated with love. This cultural context underscores that even in nature, there can be strength without warmth or compassion, inviting Job (and by extension, readers) to reflect on the complexities of divine provision and creaturely behavior.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Which leaveth her eggs in the earth -That is, she does not build a nest, as most birds do, but deposits her eggs in the sand. The ostrich, Dr. Shaw remarks, lays usually from thirty to fifty eggs. The eggs are very large, some of them being above five inches in diameter, and weighing fifteen pounds - Goldsmith. “We are not to consider,” says Dr. Shaw, “this large collection of eggs as if they were all intended for a brood.

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