Old Testament
Job 37:4
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
After it a voice roars — he thunders with the voice of his excellency, and he does not hold them back when his voice is heard.
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After it a voice roareth: he thundereth with the voice of his excellency; and he will not stay them when his voice is heard.
What Job 37:4 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Job 37:4, the imagery of a powerful voice and thunder illustrates God's might and authority. The verse suggests that when God speaks, His voice is commanding and cannot be ignored. The roaring voice signifies not just power but also the excellence of God, emphasizing that His words carry weight and significance. This passage reflects the awe-inspiring nature of God's communication with creation, where His voice brings both fear and reverence. The idea that He does not hold back when His voice is heard indicates that His intentions and commands are clear and decisive. This verse serves as a reminder of the majesty of God and the importance of listening to His guidance, as His voice can lead to profound understanding and insight. It highlights the relationship between God and humanity, where His powerful voice calls for attention and respect, urging us to respond to His will with humility and obedience.
How to apply Job 37:4 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize the power of God's voice in our lives. We should be attentive to His guidance and commands, understanding that His words are meant to lead us toward wisdom and understanding. By listening to God, we can align our actions with His will and experience His presence more fully.
Curated for this public verse page. Job Summary
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Illustrated scene from Job's story: Elihu Speaks (Job 32:1–37:24)
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Job
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Hebron
Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
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Keep studying Job 37:4
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Job
- Author
- Author unknown; events likely in the patriarchal era
- Written
- Date debated
- Genre
- Wisdom literature
- Original Audience
- All who suffer or question God
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Job 37:4 mean?
Job 37:4 illustrates God's immense power and authority through the imagery of thunder and a commanding voice. It emphasizes that when God speaks, His words are powerful and should not be ignored, reflecting His excellence and the importance of listening to His guidance.
What is the significance of God's voice in Job 37:4?
In Job 37:4, God's voice represents His authority and majesty. The verse highlights that His voice commands attention and respect, urging us to recognize the weight of His words and the clarity of His intentions.
What does 'he thunders with the voice of his excellency' mean in Job 37:4?
The phrase 'he thunders with the voice of his excellency' in Job 37:4 signifies that God's voice is powerful and majestic. It conveys that His communication is not only authoritative but also reflects His supreme nature and the significance of His messages.
How does Job 37:4 relate to the theme of awe and reverence?
Job 37:4 relates to awe and reverence by portraying God's voice as thunderous and commanding. This imagery evokes a sense of fear and respect, reminding us of the majesty of God and the need to respond humbly to His words.
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