Job 41:17

"One is so near to another, that no air can come between them."

Key Reflection

In Job 41:17, the imagery of creatures being so close that no air can separate them underscores the awe-inspiring and nearly unbreakable unity of Leviathan, the powerful sea monster described in the passage. This vivid depiction highlights both the physical closeness and the strength of these beings, reflecting a world where such immense power and solidarity are present. The imagery serves to emphasize the mightiness of God's creation, drawing Job (and by extension, readers) to recognize the divine power behind such wonders.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

They are joined one to another -literally, “A man with his brother;” that is, each one is connected with another. There is no natural fastening of one scale with another, but they lie so close and compact that they seem thus to be fastened down on one another; see Bochart on this verse. It is this which makes the crocodile so difficult to be killed. A musket-ball will penetrate the skin under the belly, which is there less firmly protected; and accordingly the efforts of those who attempt to secure them are directed to that part of the body.

More from Job 41

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