Old Testament
Job 40:15
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Look now at behemoth, which I made with you; it eats grass like an ox.
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Behold now behemoth, which I made with thee; he eateth grass as an ox.
What Job 40:15 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Job 40:15, God introduces Job to a creature called behemoth, which is often interpreted as a large, powerful animal, possibly a hippopotamus or an elephant. The verse emphasizes that God created this creature alongside humans, highlighting His sovereignty and creative power. The behemoth is described as eating grass like an ox, which illustrates its herbivorous nature and immense size. This imagery serves to remind Job of the vastness of God's creation and the order He has established in the world. By pointing to behemoth, God is inviting Job to consider the majesty of His works and the limitations of human understanding. The mention of behemoth also serves to contrast the creature's strength and size with Job's own human frailty, reinforcing the theme of divine power versus human limitation. Overall, this verse encourages readers to reflect on the greatness of God and the complexity of His creation, urging humility in the face of divine wisdom.
How to apply Job 40:15 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize the greatness of God in creation. When we face challenges or feel overwhelmed, we can remember that God is the creator of all things, including powerful creatures like behemoth. This perspective can help us trust in His wisdom and sovereignty over our lives, reminding us to approach our struggles with humility and faith.
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: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Shechem
Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.
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Keep studying Job 40:15
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 40:15 mean?
Job 40:15 introduces behemoth, a powerful creature created by God, emphasizing His sovereignty and creative power. The verse highlights the creature's herbivorous nature, eating grass like an ox, and serves as a reminder of the vastness of God's creation.
What is behemoth in Job 40:15?
Behemoth is often interpreted as a large, powerful animal, possibly a hippopotamus or an elephant. It symbolizes God's creative power and the majesty of His works.
What does eating grass like an ox signify in Job 40:15?
The phrase 'eats grass like an ox' signifies behemoth's herbivorous nature and immense size, illustrating the order and design in God's creation.
How does Job 40:15 relate to human limitations?
In Job 40:15, the mention of behemoth contrasts its strength and size with human frailty, reinforcing the theme of divine power versus human limitation.
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