King James Version
What Does Job 35:11 Mean?
“Who teacheth us more than the beasts of the earth, and maketh us wiser than the fowls of heaven?”
Context
9
By reason of the multitude of oppressions they make the oppressed to cry: they cry out by reason of the arm of the mighty.
10
But none saith, Where is God my maker, who giveth songs in the night;
11
Who teacheth us more than the beasts of the earth, and maketh us wiser than the fowls of heaven?
12
There they cry, but none giveth answer, because of the pride of evil men.
13
Surely God will not hear vanity, neither will the Almighty regard it.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(11) **Who teacheth us.**—Or it may be, *Who teacheth us by, and maketh us wise by, &c. *Then the sense will be that the oppression is so severe that the victims of it forget that God can give songs in the night, and that He has favoured men more than the beasts of the field, and that, as not one sparrow can fall to the ground without Him, so He has even numbered the hairs of those who are of more value to Him than many sparrows.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Job. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Job 35:11 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Job 35:11
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge