King James Version

What Does Job 39:20 Mean?

Job 39:20 in the King James Version says “Canst thou make him afraid as a grasshopper? the glory of his nostrils is terrible. terrible: Heb. terror” — study this verse from Job chapter 39 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Canst thou make him afraid as a grasshopper? the glory of his nostrils is terrible. terrible: Heb. terror”

Job 39:20 · KJV

Fear & Courage

Context

18

What time she lifteth up herself on high, she scorneth the horse and his rider.

19

Hast thou given the horse strength? hast thou clothed his neck with thunder?

20

Canst thou make him afraid as a grasshopper? the glory of his nostrils is terrible. terrible: Heb. terror

21

He paweth in the valley, and rejoiceth in his strength: he goeth on to meet the armed men. He paweth: or, His feet dig the armed: Heb. the armour

22

He mocketh at fear, and is not affrighted; neither turneth he back from the sword.

Read Job 39 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
"Canst thou make him afraid as a grasshopper? the glory of his nostrils is terrible." The war-horse's nostril-flaring and aggressive spirit inspire terror. The Hebrew nechir apo (נַחַר אַפּוֹ, "snorting of his nostrils") suggests fearsome power. God designed some creatures for battle—not peaceful purposes. This demonstrates that strength, aggression, and even capacity for violence have legitimate places in God's design when properly directed. Not everything must be tame and gentle; righteous purposes sometimes require fierce strength.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

War-horses were essential military assets in ancient warfare. Their strength, speed, and aggressive spirit decided battles. God designed these capabilities, teaching that power and martial prowess aren't inherently evil but serve righteous purposes when properly directed. This would encourage defenders of justice.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this passage validate strength and assertiveness when directed toward righteous purposes?
  2. What God-given fierce capacities in yourself need proper channeling rather than suppression?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 5 words
הְֽ֭תַרְעִישֶׁנּוּ1 of 5

“Canst thou make him afraid”

H7493

to undulate (as the earth, the sky, etc.; also a field of grain), particularly through fear; specifically, to spring (as a locust)

כָּאַרְבֶּ֑ה2 of 5

“as a grasshopper”

H697

a locust (from its rapid increase)

ה֖וֹד3 of 5

“the glory”

H1935

grandeur (i.e., an imposing form and appearance)

נַחְר֣וֹ4 of 5

“of his nostrils”

H5170

a snorting

אֵימָֽה׃5 of 5

“is terrible”

H367

fright; concrete, an idol (as a bugbear)

Study Guide

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 39:20 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 39:20 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Jeremiah 8:16Job 41:20-21Joel 2:5

Test Your Knowledge

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