Question 1

What does Job 40:18 mean?

Accepted Answer

Job 40:18 describes the creature’s bones as being as strong as pieces of brass and like bars of iron, emphasizing its immense physical strength and durability. The verse uses vivid imagery to highlight how powerful and unbreakable this animal is, painting a picture of something nearly indestructible. In this part of the book of Job, God is speaking to Job, describing a mighty creature (often called "Behemoth") to show Job the greatness of His creation. The focus is on how this animal’s body is built with incredible strength, which Job—and by extension, any human—could never hope to match or control. This helps set the stage for God’s larger point about His own power and wisdom compared to human limitations.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind Job 40:18

Accepted Answer

The word for "bones" (עֶצֶם, ‘etsem) is used twice in this verse, stressing the creature’s inner structure and strength, not just its outward appearance. "Strong" (אֲפִיק, ‘afiq) often means something massive or mighty, and here it suggests the bones are not just hard, but thick and powerful, like solid beams. "Brass" (נְחֹשֶׁת, neḥoshet) in the ancient world referred to bronze or copper, both known for their toughness; comparing bones to this metal stresses their resilience. "Bars" (פַּחַד, paḥad) are the crosspieces used for locking or reinforcing gates, so calling the bones "bars of iron" (בַּרְזֶל, barzel) suggests they are like the strongest supports imaginable.

Question 3

Why Job 40:18 matters

Accepted Answer

This verse helps clear up that the description is not about an ordinary animal, but something extraordinary in strength, meant to humble Job by comparison. The emphasis on bones and their strength highlights the inner, unseen power of the creature, not just its outward size or appearance. By connecting this description to the larger speech, the verse shows how God uses the wonders of creation to teach Job about His unmatched power and wisdom.

Job 40:18 (KJV)