Old Testament
Job 40:23
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Look, he drinks up a river, and does not hasten; he trusts that he can draw up the Jordan into his mouth.
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Behold, he drinketh up a river, and hasteth not: he trusteth that he can draw up Jordan into his mouth.
What Job 40:23 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God is describing a powerful creature, likely a hippopotamus or a similar animal, that can drink vast amounts of water without any hurry. The imagery emphasizes the creature's strength and confidence, suggesting that it can consume the Jordan River as if it were a mere stream. This highlights the majesty of God's creation and serves as a reminder of the limits of human understanding and power. The verse illustrates the idea that some beings in nature possess incredible abilities that humans cannot fully comprehend. It also reflects on the trust that this creature has in its own strength, contrasting it with the need for humans to rely on God for their strength and sustenance. Overall, this passage invites readers to reflect on the greatness of God’s creations and the importance of humility in recognizing our place in the world.
How to apply Job 40:23 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize the power and majesty of God's creation. It reminds us to trust in God's strength rather than relying solely on our own abilities. In our daily lives, we should approach challenges with humility, acknowledging that we are part of a greater design.
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 40:23
Related Bible verses
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 40:23 mean about the creature drinking a river?
Job 40:23 describes a powerful creature, often interpreted as a hippopotamus, that can drink large amounts of water without haste. This imagery illustrates the creature's immense strength and confidence, emphasizing the majesty of God's creation. It serves as a reminder of the incredible abilities found in nature that humans may not fully understand.
How does Job 40:23 relate to human strength and reliance on God?
The verse contrasts the creature's self-reliance and strength with the human need to depend on God. While the creature trusts in its own abilities, humans are encouraged to recognize their limitations and seek strength from God. This teaches us humility and the importance of acknowledging our place within God's creation.
What lessons can we learn from Job 40:23 about humility?
Job 40:23 invites us to reflect on our own limitations compared to the power of God's creations. It teaches that while we may possess certain strengths, we should approach life with humility, recognizing that we are part of a larger design and that true strength comes from trusting in God.
Why is the imagery of drinking a river significant in Job 40:23?
The imagery of a creature drinking a river signifies overwhelming power and control over nature. It highlights the vastness of God's creation and the extraordinary capabilities of certain beings. This serves to remind readers of the greatness of God and the intricate balance of life that humans are often unaware of.
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