“Behold, the hope of him is in vain: shall not one be cast down even at the sight of him?”
God continues 'Behold, the hope of seizing him is in vain; one is not cast down even at the sight of him.' This verse asserts that hope of capturing Leviathan is in vain. The creature is so powerful that even seeing it does not lead to its defeat. The phrase 'not cast down even at the sight of him' suggests that Leviathan, upon being seen, remains undefeated and powerful. The verse emphasizes the futility of attempting to engage with Leviathan. Job is being counseled that some creatures are beyond human reach, and the very sight of such creatures should suggest to humans the futility of attempting to master them.
Church Fathers on Job 41:9
Behold, his hope shall disappoint him. But this ought to be so understood, as to be referred to his body also; because all wicked men who fear not the strictness of Divine justice, flatter themselves in vain on His compassion. And He presently returns to console us, and foretels his coming destruction at the last judgment, saying; And in the sight of all he shall be cast down. For he will be cast down in the sight of all, because when the eternal Judge then terribly appears,…
Nicene & Post-Nicene / Ante-Nicene Fathers translations · public domain
COMMUNITY REFLECTIONS
Publish a reflection on this verse
No reflections on this verse yet. Be the first to write one!