King James Version
What Does Job 40:21 Mean?
“He lieth under the shady trees, in the covert of the reed, and fens.”
Context
19
He is the chief of the ways of God: he that made him can make his sword to approach unto him.
20
Surely the mountains bring him forth food, where all the beasts of the field play.
21
He lieth under the shady trees, in the covert of the reed, and fens.
22
The shady trees cover him with their shadow; the willows of the brook compass him about.
23
Behold, he drinketh up a river, and hasteth not: he trusteth that he can draw up Jordan into his mouth. he drinketh up: Heb. he oppresseth
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(21) **He lieth under the shady trees.**—If this description applies to any *one *animal, it seems on the whole more appropriate to the elephant than the hippopotamus. No doubt the judgment of critics has been biased by their pre-conceived notions about the circumstances under which they suppose the Book of Job to have been written; and the author was more likely, it is thought, to have been acquainted with the river-horse of Egypt than with the elephant of India, though, to be sure, elephants abound also in Africa, and may very well have been known to the writer of Job from that quarter, if the other is less likely.
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 40:21 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 40:21
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge