Job 39:18 (KJV)

What does Job 39:18 mean?

Job 39:18 describes how, when the ostrich lifts herself to run, she is so swift and bold that she mocks even the horse and its rider, who are usually symbols of speed and strength. The verse highlights the surprising abilities given to the ostrich, despite her seeming disadvantages.

In this part of the book of Job, God is speaking to Job, pointing out wonders in creation that humans cannot fully understand or control. The verse uses the ostrich as an example: although she may seem foolish or lacking in some ways, she has an impressive ability to run, outpacing even the fastest horses. This shows that God's wisdom in creating the world includes surprising strengths in unexpected places.

The Hebrew behind Job 39:18

• The word "scorneth" (שָׂחַק, sachaḳ) means to laugh at or mock. Here, it paints a vivid picture of the ostrich seeming to make fun of the horse and rider by outstripping them, emphasizing her unexpected superiority in speed.
• The word "time" (עֵת, ‘et) refers to a specific moment or season. In this context, it points to the exact moment when the ostrich decides to run, highlighting the suddenness and decisiveness of her action.
• The word "up" (פָּרַשׂ, parash) means to spread or lift up. It suggests the ostrich lifting herself or spreading her wings as she begins her run, adding to the image of her dramatic burst of speed.

Why Job 39:18 matters

• Job 39:18 clears up the idea that God's creatures are only valuable if they fit human expectations; even the ostrich, often seen as foolish, has unique strengths.
• The verse emphasizes that God's wisdom in creation includes variety and surprise, challenging Job (and the reader) to recognize limits in human understanding.
• This verse connects to the larger passage where God questions Job, using examples from nature to show that there are many things in the world that humans cannot explain or control.