Job 39:7 (KJV)

What does Job 39:7 mean?

Job 39:7 describes an animal that ignores the busy crowds of the city and pays no attention to the shouts of someone trying to control it. The verse highlights this creature’s independence and lack of concern for human activity or authority.

In context, God is speaking to Job, pointing out how some animals, like the wild donkey, live beyond human control or influence. The verse uses the image of city life and a driver’s commands to show how this animal is not tamed or bothered by people’s attempts to direct it, emphasizing the limits of human power.

The Hebrew behind Job 39:7

• "scorneth" (שָׂחַק, sachaq): This word means to laugh at, mock, or treat with contempt. Here, it suggests the animal has no respect for the busy life of the city.
• "crying" (תְּשׁוּאָה, teshua): This word can mean a shout, cry, or noise, often used for a loud call or command. In this verse, it refers to the driver’s attempts to control the animal.
• "driver" (נָגַשׂ, nagash): This word means someone who urges or drives forward, like a herdsman or taskmaster. The verse paints a picture of someone trying to direct the animal, but the animal ignores him.

Why Job 39:7 matters

• Job 39:7 makes clear that not all creatures are under human control, reminding the reader of the limits of human authority in God’s creation.
• The verse connects to the larger point God is making to Job: there are aspects of the world that operate outside human understanding or power.
• By describing the wild donkey’s independence, the verse highlights the diversity and freedom found in the natural world, which God oversees but humans cannot fully manage.