Job 41:21 (KJV)

What does Job 41:21 mean?

Job 41:21 describes a creature whose breath is so powerful that it sets coals ablaze and sends out a flame from its mouth. This vivid picture is meant to show the creature’s fearsome and almost supernatural strength.

In the book of Job, God is speaking to Job about the might and mystery of Leviathan, a legendary sea creature. The description uses dramatic language to highlight how untamable and dangerous Leviathan is, emphasizing that no human could hope to control or defeat such a being. The verse is part of a larger speech where God shows Job the limits of human power compared to God’s creation.

The Hebrew behind Job 41:21

• "breath" (נֶפֶשׁ, nefesh): While often meaning "soul" or "life," here it refers simply to the creature’s breath, emphasizing the life force or energy that is so intense it can ignite coals.
• "kindleth" (לָהַט, lahat): This word means to set on fire or burn, highlighting the destructive and fiery nature of Leviathan’s breath.
• "coals" (גֶּחָל, gechal): Refers to burning coals, adding to the image of heat and fire.
• "flame" (לֶהָבָה, lehabah): A direct word for flame, reinforcing the idea that fire literally comes from the creature’s mouth.
• "out" (יָצָא, yatsa): Means to go out or come forth, making it clear the flame is emerging from the mouth.
• "mouth" (פֶּה, peh): The ordinary word for mouth, focusing attention on the source of the fire.

Why Job 41:21 matters

• Job 41:21 helps clear up that the description of Leviathan is not just about a real animal but uses exaggerated, poetic language to stress its terrifying power.
• The verse emphasizes God’s point to Job: there are forces in creation far beyond human control or understanding, showing the vast difference between God’s power and human ability.
• This vivid image connects to the wider passage by building up Leviathan as a symbol of chaos and might, making God’s questions to Job even more striking.