Old Testament
Job 39:15
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and forgets that a foot may crush them, or that a wild beast may break them.
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And forgetteth that the foot may crush them, or that the wild beast may break them.
What Job 39:15 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Job 39:15, the verse highlights the vulnerability of certain creatures, possibly referring to the ostrich, which is known for its speed but lacks the instinct to protect its young. The imagery of a foot crushing them or a wild beast breaking them illustrates the dangers that these creatures face in the wild. The verse serves as a reminder of the harsh realities of nature, where survival is not guaranteed. The ostrich, despite its impressive abilities, is oblivious to the threats around it, showcasing a lack of awareness that can lead to dire consequences. This reflects a broader theme of the natural world, where instinct and awareness are crucial for survival. The verse invites readers to consider the balance of strength and vulnerability in creation, emphasizing that even the strongest can be at risk if they are not mindful of their surroundings.
How to apply Job 39:15 to your life
This verse encourages us to be aware of our surroundings and the potential dangers we face in life. Just as the ostrich may overlook threats, we too can become complacent. Staying alert and mindful can help us navigate challenges and protect ourselves and those we care about.
Curated for this public verse page. Job Summary
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Illustrated scene from Job's story: Out of the Whirlwind (Job 38:1–41:34)
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Job
Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. Resized for the web.
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Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
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Keep studying Job 39:15
Related Bible verses
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 39:15 mean?
Job 39:15 highlights the vulnerability of certain creatures, likely the ostrich, which, despite its speed, lacks awareness of dangers like predators or being crushed. It serves as a reminder of the harsh realities of nature and the importance of instinct and awareness for survival.
What is the meaning of vulnerability in Job 39:15?
In Job 39:15, vulnerability refers to the risks faced by creatures like the ostrich, which can be easily harmed due to their lack of instinct to protect themselves and their young. This emphasizes the need for awareness in the wild.
How does Job 39:15 relate to awareness?
Job 39:15 relates to awareness by showing that the ostrich, despite its physical abilities, fails to recognize the dangers around it. This serves as a lesson for humans to remain alert and mindful of potential risks in their own lives.
What lesson can we learn from Job 39:15?
From Job 39:15, we learn the importance of being aware of our surroundings and the potential dangers we face. Just like the ostrich, we can become complacent, so staying alert can help us navigate life's challenges.
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