King James Version

What Does Job 40:3 Mean?

Job 40:3 in the King James Version says “Then Job answered the LORD, and said,” — study this verse from Job chapter 40 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Then Job answered the LORD, and said,”

Job 40:3 · KJV

Context

1

Moreover the LORD answered Job, and said,

2

Shall he that contendeth with the Almighty instruct him? he that reproveth God, let him answer it.

3

Then Job answered the LORD, and said,

4

Behold, I am vile; what shall I answer thee? I will lay mine hand upon my mouth.

5

Once have I spoken; but I will not answer: yea, twice; but I will proceed no further.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
"Gird up thy loins now like a man; I will demand of thee, and declare thou unto me." God repeats His challenge from 38:3, using the imperative "gird up" (ezor, אֱזָר). The phrase "like a man" (kegever, כְגֶבֶר) calls Job to stand firm and answer directly. The role reversal continues—God questions, Job must answer. This humbles human pretension to judge divine governance. The repeated challenge suggests Job didn't fully grasp the first speech's implications. God graciously reiterates, pressing Job toward complete submission.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Girding up loins meant gathering one's robe for action—preparing for work, battle, or journey. The image conveyed readiness and resolve. God calls Job to brace himself for serious engagement with divine questions. Ancient readers would recognize this as preparing for a decisive confrontation.

Reflection Questions

  1. What does it mean practically to "gird up your loins" when facing God's challenging questions?
  2. How do you respond when God reverses roles, questioning you instead of answering your questions?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 5 words
וַיַּ֖עַן1 of 5

“answered”

H6030

properly, to eye or (generally) to heed, i.e., pay attention; by implication, to respond; by extension to begin to speak; specifically to sing, shout,

אִיּ֥וֹב2 of 5

“Then Job”

H347

ijob, the patriarch famous for his patience

אֶת3 of 5
H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

יְהוָ֗ה4 of 5

“the LORD”

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

וַיֹּאמַֽר׃5 of 5

“and said”

H559

to say (used with great latitude)

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 40:3 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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