Old Testament
Job 40:18
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Its bones are like strong pieces of bronze; its bones are like bars of iron.
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His bones are as strong pieces of brass; his bones are like bars of iron.
What Job 40:18 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Job 40:18, the verse describes a creature with incredibly strong bones, comparing them to bronze and iron. This imagery emphasizes the creature's immense strength and durability, suggesting it is a formidable being. The use of metals like bronze and iron, known for their toughness, illustrates the creature's power and resilience. This description serves to highlight the greatness of God's creation, showcasing His ability to create beings that are beyond human understanding. The context of this verse is part of God's response to Job, where He emphasizes His own power and the majesty of His creations. By comparing the creature's bones to strong metals, it invites readers to reflect on the strength and complexity of the natural world, which is a testament to God's creative authority.
How to apply Job 40:18 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize the strength and complexity of God's creations. It reminds us to appreciate the natural world and its wonders, fostering a sense of awe and respect for the Creator. We can apply this by being mindful of our environment and acknowledging the power of God in all things.
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 40:18
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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 40:18 mean?
Job 40:18 describes a creature with bones as strong as bronze and iron, emphasizing its immense strength and durability. This imagery highlights the power of God's creations and serves as part of God's response to Job about His greatness.
What is the significance of bronze and iron in Job 40:18?
In Job 40:18, bronze and iron symbolize toughness and strength, illustrating the creature's formidable nature. This comparison underscores the idea that God's creations possess remarkable power and resilience.
How does Job 40:18 relate to God's creation?
Job 40:18 showcases the strength and complexity of God's creations, inviting readers to reflect on the natural world's wonders. It highlights God's ability to create beings that are beyond human understanding.
What themes are present in Job 40:18?
The themes in Job 40:18 include God's creation, strength, durability, divine power, and the majesty of nature. These themes emphasize the awe-inspiring aspects of the world and God's role as the Creator.
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