The flakes of his flesh are joined together: they are firm in themselves; they cannot be moved.

JOB 41:23KJV
Know the Bible

Job 41:23 (KJV)

What does Job 41:23 mean?

Job 41:23 describes how the creature’s flesh is tightly joined together, firm and unmoving, emphasizing its strength and impenetrability. The verse uses physical imagery to show that this being’s body is so solidly built that nothing can separate or shake its flesh.

In this part of the book of Job, God is speaking to Job about the might and mystery of Leviathan, a powerful sea creature. God’s words are meant to highlight how fearsome and untouchable Leviathan is, making the point that no human can overpower or control such a creature. The verse paints a picture of a body that is perfectly fitted and unyielding, underlining the creature’s invulnerability.

The Hebrew behind Job 41:23

  • "flakes" (מִפְגָּעִים, mifga'im): This word refers to the folds or layers of flesh, suggesting overlapping sections that are closely packed. The use of this word helps the reader picture a creature with armor-like skin.
  • "together" (דָּבַק, davaq): This word means "to cling" or "to stick," emphasizing that the flesh is not just close, but actually fused or stuck together, making separation impossible.
  • "firm" (יָצַק, yatsaq): This word carries the idea of something being poured out and set, like metal cast in a mold. It suggests the flesh is not only joined but also hardened and solid.
  • "moved" (מוֹט, mot): This word means "to be shaken" or "to totter," reinforcing that the creature’s flesh cannot be disturbed or loosened by any force.

Why Job 41:23 matters

  • Job 41:23 clears up any idea that Leviathan is just a large animal; the verse emphasizes its supernatural toughness, making it clear that this is no ordinary creature.
  • The verse highlights God’s power in creation by describing something humans cannot even begin to challenge or dismantle, supporting the larger theme of God’s unmatched wisdom and strength.
  • Understanding the detailed language about Leviathan’s body helps the reader appreciate the poetic way the book of Job communicates awe and respect for the mysteries of the natural world.

Where else these words appear

“flakes” Hebrew H4651 · used in 2 verses

  • Amos 8:6 That we may buy the poor for silver, and the needy for a pair of shoes; yea, and sell the refuse of the wheat?

“moved” Hebrew H4131 · used in 36 verses

  • Leviticus 25:35 And if thy brother be waxen poor, and fallen in decay with thee; then thou shalt relieve him: yea, though he be a stranger, or a sojourner; that he may live with thee.
  • Psalms 46:2 Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea;
  • Psalms 104:5 Who laid the foundations of the earth, that it should not be removed for ever.

“firm” Hebrew H3332 · used in 51 verses

  • Genesis 28:18 And Jacob rose up early in the morning, and took the stone that he had put for his pillows, and set it up for a pillar, and poured oil upon the top of it.
  • Leviticus 14:26 And the priest shall pour of the oil into the palm of his own left hand:
  • 2 Kings 4:5 So she went from him, and shut the door upon her and upon her sons, who brought the vessels to her; and she poured out.

“together” Hebrew H1692 · used in 52 verses

  • Genesis 2:24 Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.
  • Judges 20:42 Therefore they turned their backs before the men of Israel unto the way of the wilderness; but the battle overtook them; and them which came out of the cities they destroyed in the midst of them.
  • Job 29:10 The nobles held their peace, and their tongue cleaved to the roof of their mouth.