Job 41:3

"Can you put a rope into his nose, or pierce his jaw through with a hook?"

Key Reflection

In Job 41:3, the text speaks to the immense strength and ferocity of the leviathan (likely referring to a crocodile). The original audience would have understood that attempting to control such a creature by placing a rope in its nose or piercing its jaw with a hook was not only impractical but also dangerous. This description underscores the leviathan's untamable nature, highlighting the divine power and might that Job is reflecting upon, contrasting human limitations with the sovereignty of God.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Will he make many supplications unto thee? -In the manner of a captive begging for his life. That is, will he quietly submit to you? Prof. Lee supposes that there is an allusion here to the well-known cries of the dolphin when taken; but it is not necessary to suppose such an allusion. The idea is, that the animal here referred to would not tamely submit to his captor. Will he speak soft words unto thee? -Pleading for his life in tones of tender and plaintive supplication.

More from Job 41

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