King James Version

What Does Job 39:3 Mean?

Job 39:3 in the King James Version says “They bow themselves, they bring forth their young ones, they cast out their sorrows. — study this verse from Job chapter 39 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

They bow themselves, they bring forth their young ones, they cast out their sorrows.

Job 39:3 · KJV


Context

1

Knowest thou the time when the wild goats of the rock bring forth? or canst thou mark when the hinds do calve?

2

Canst thou number the months that they fulfil? or knowest thou the time when they bring forth?

3

They bow themselves, they bring forth their young ones, they cast out their sorrows.

4

Their young ones are in good liking, they grow up with corn; they go forth, and return not unto them.

5

Who hath sent out the wild ass free? or who hath loosed the bands of the wild ass?


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
"They bow themselves, they bring forth their young ones, they cast out their sorrows." God describes the birthing process—the bowing (kara, כָּרַע, "crouch/bow") and delivery. Even wild animals experience pain ("sorrows," chebel, חֶבֶל, "birth pains") but successfully bring forth offspring without human assistance. This reveals God's provision for all creatures, sustaining them through vulnerable moments. It implicitly asks Job: if God cares for wild goats in labor, won't He care for you in your suffering?

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Animal husbandry was common, but wild animal births occurred hidden from view. The process's success without human intervention demonstrated God's direct care for creation. This would assure agricultural societies that God actively sustains all life, not just domesticated animals serving human purposes.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does God's care for animals in their most vulnerable moments encourage trust in His care for you?
  2. What does this passage teach about suffering being part of natural processes under God's governance?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 5 words
תִּ֭כְרַעְנָה1 of 5

They bow

H3766

to bend the knee; by implication, to sink, to prostrate

יַלְדֵיהֶ֣ן2 of 5

their young ones

H3206

something born, i.e., a lad or offspring

תְּפַלַּ֑חְנָה3 of 5

themselves they bring forth

H6398

to slice, i.e., break open or pierce

חֶבְלֵיהֶ֥ם4 of 5

their sorrows

H2256

ruin

תְּשַׁלַּֽחְנָה׃5 of 5

they cast out

H7971

to send away, for, or out (in a great variety of applications)


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 39:3 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

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