King James Version
What Does Job 38:5 Mean?
“Who hath laid the measures thereof, if thou knowest? or who hath stretched the line upon it?”
Context
3
Gird up now thy loins like a man; for I will demand of thee, and answer thou me. answer: Heb. make me know
4
Where wast thou when I laid the foundations of the earth? declare, if thou hast understanding. hast: Heb. knowest understanding
5
Who hath laid the measures thereof, if thou knowest? or who hath stretched the line upon it?
6
Whereupon are the foundations thereof fastened? or who laid the corner stone thereof; foundations: Heb. sockets fastened: Heb. made to sink?
7
When the morning stars sang together, and all the sons of God shouted for joy?
Commentary
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary26. Rather, though after my skin (is no more) this (body) is destroyed ("body" being omitted, because it was so wasted as not to deserve the name), yet from my flesh (from my renewed body, as the starting-point of vision, So 2:9, "looking out from the windows") "shall I see God." Next clause [Job 19:27] proves bodily vision is meant, for it specifies "mine eyes" [Rosenmuller, 2d ed.]. The Hebrew opposes "in my flesh." The "skin" was the first destroyed by elephantiasis, then the "body."
Robert Jamieson, A.R. Fausset, David Brown. 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 38:5 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 38:5
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge