Old Testament
Job 40:17
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
It moves its tail like a cedar; the sinews of its stones are wrapped together.
Compare translations
He moveth his tail like a cedar: the sinews of his stones are wrapped together.
What Job 40:17 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Job 40:17, the imagery of a creature moving its tail like a cedar tree emphasizes its strength and majesty. The cedar tree is known for its size and durability, suggesting that this creature is powerful and formidable. The phrase "the sinews of its stones are wrapped together" likely refers to the creature's strong muscles and structure, indicating that it is well-built and capable of great movement. This verse is part of a larger discourse where God is illustrating His creation's wonders to Job, highlighting the complexity and might of the natural world. The creature described is often interpreted as a symbol of God's power and the mysteries of creation that are beyond human understanding. Through this vivid description, the text invites readers to reflect on the greatness of God and the intricate designs of His creations, which can inspire awe and reverence.
How to apply Job 40:17 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize the majesty of God's creation and to approach life with humility. By reflecting on the strength and complexity of nature, we can gain a deeper appreciation for God's power and wisdom. It reminds us to trust in God's design and purpose in our lives.
Curated for this public verse page. Job Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Job's story: Out of the Whirlwind (Job 38:1–41:34)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
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.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shechem
Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Job 40:17
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Job 40:17
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 40:17 mean?
Job 40:17 describes a powerful creature whose tail moves like a cedar tree, symbolizing strength and majesty. The verse highlights the creature's formidable nature and serves to illustrate God's creative power and the complexity of the natural world.
What is the meaning of 'tail like a cedar' in Job 40:17?
The phrase 'tail like a cedar' in Job 40:17 emphasizes the creature's strength and size, comparing its tail to the sturdy and majestic cedar tree. This imagery suggests that the creature is both powerful and impressive.
What does 'sinews of its stones are wrapped together' mean in Job 40:17?
The phrase 'sinews of its stones are wrapped together' likely refers to the creature's strong muscles and structure, indicating it is well-built and capable of great movement. This imagery further emphasizes the creature's strength.
How does Job 40:17 relate to God's creation?
Job 40:17 highlights the majesty and complexity of God's creation by describing a powerful creature. It serves as a reminder of the intricate designs and strength found in nature, reflecting God's creative power.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.