King James Version

What Does Job 41:12 Mean?

Job 41:12 in the King James Version says “I will not conceal his parts, nor his power , nor his comely proportion. — study this verse from Job chapter 41 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

I will not conceal his parts, nor his power , nor his comely proportion.

Job 41:12 · KJV


Context

10

None is so fierce that dare stir him up : who then is able to stand before me?

11

Who hath prevented me, that I should repay him? whatsoever is under the whole heaven is mine.

12

I will not conceal his parts, nor his power , nor his comely proportion.

13

Who can discover the face of his garment? or who can come to him with his double bridle? with: or, within

14

Who can open the doors of his face? his teeth are terrible round about.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
"I will not conceal his parts, nor his power, nor his comely proportion." God promises detailed description of Leviathan—its parts (badav, בַּדָּיו), power (gevurotav, גְּבוּרֹתָיו), and proportions (chein erkho, חִין עֶרְכּוֹ, "grace of arrangement"). Even in describing forces beyond human control, God reveals His creative excellence. Leviathan's terrifying power comes packaged with beautiful design. This teaches that even overwhelming aspects of creation display divine artistry, inviting wonder alongside fear.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Ancient descriptions of fearsome creatures often emphasized only threatening aspects. God's inclusion of Leviathan's "comely proportion" taught that even the terrifying displays divine beauty and design. This would expand understanding of God's character—He is artist even in creating powerful forces.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does finding beauty in overwhelming realities change your perspective on difficult circumstances?
  2. What terrifying aspects of life might reveal divine artistry upon closer examination?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 7 words
לֹא1 of 7
H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

אַחֲרִ֥ישׁ2 of 7

I will not conceal

H2790

to scratch, i.e., (by implication) to engrave, plough; hence (from the use of tools) to fabricate (of any material); figuratively, to devise (in a bad

בַּדָּ֑יו3 of 7
H905

properly, separation; by implication, a part of the body, branch of a tree, bar for carrying; figuratively, chief of a city; especially (with preposit

וּדְבַר4 of 7
H1697

a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause

גְּ֝בוּר֗וֹת5 of 7

nor his power

H1369

force (literally or figuratively); by implication, valor, victory

וְחִ֣ין6 of 7

nor his comely

H2433

beauty

עֶרְכּֽוֹ׃7 of 7

proportion

H6187

a pile, equipment, estimate


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 41:12 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 41:12 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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