Job 4:10 (KJV)

What does Job 4:10 mean?

Job 4:10 uses the image of lions—both their roar and their strength—to show that even the most powerful and fearsome can be brought down and lose their power. The verse is saying that strength and fierceness do not guarantee lasting security or success.

In this verse, Eliphaz is speaking to Job, using poetic language to make a point about how even those who seem mighty can be humbled. Eliphaz is trying to explain that suffering and loss can come to anyone, no matter how strong they appear, as part of his argument about the nature of suffering and justice.

The Hebrew behind Job 4:10

• "Roaring" (שַׁאֲגָה, sha'agah): This word refers to the loud, intimidating sound a lion makes. Here, it highlights the power and presence of the lion, which is then contrasted with its downfall.
• "Lion" (אַרְיֵה, aryeh) and "fierce lion" (שַׁחַל, shachal): These two different words for lion emphasize different aspects—one is the general term for lion, and the other often refers to a more dangerous or aggressive lion. The use of both terms shows the full range of lion-like strength.
• "Broken" (נָתַץ, natsats): This word means shattered or destroyed. It makes clear that the power of the lions (their roar, voice, and teeth) is not just diminished but completely undone.

Why Job 4:10 matters

• Job 4:10 helps clear up the idea that power and ferocity guarantee safety or success; even the strongest can be brought low.
• The verse connects to Eliphaz’s broader argument that suffering is not always a sign of weakness or wrongdoing, but can happen to anyone.
• The vivid imagery of lions losing their strength sets the stage for the ongoing debate in Job about the reasons for suffering and the limits of human strength.