King James Version
What Does Job 41:27 Mean?
“He esteemeth iron as straw, and brass as rotten wood.”
Job 41:27 · KJV
Context
25
When he raiseth up himself, the mighty are afraid: by reason of breakings they purify themselves.
26
The sword of him that layeth at him cannot hold: the spear, the dart, nor the habergeon. habergeon: or, breastplate
27
He esteemeth iron as straw, and brass as rotten wood.
28
The arrow cannot make him flee: slingstones are turned with him into stubble.
29
Darts are counted as stubble: he laugheth at the shaking of a spear.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryGod describes Leviathan's contempt for human weapons. 'Esteemeth iron as straw' (yachshob ke-teben barzel, יַחְשֹׁב כְּתֶבֶן בַּרְזֶל) means it considers the strongest metal as worthless plant matter. 'Brass as rotten wood' (ets riqqabon nechushah, עֵץ רִקָּבוֹן נְחֻשָׁה) compares another durable metal to decayed, useless timber. Both iron and brass/bronze represented the pinnacle of ancient military technology and strength. Leviathan's indifference to them reveals the futility of human might against divinely ordained forces. This verse teaches that human strength, technology, and weaponry are ultimately powerless against spiritual enemies—we need divine armor (Ephesians 6:10-17). It also illustrates God's transcendent power—what overwhelms humanity is trivial to Him. The verse prepares for the New Testament truth that God uses the weak to shame the strong (1 Corinthians 1:27).
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
Iron Age technology revolutionized ancient warfare and agriculture, making iron symbolize ultimate human strength and progress. Bronze had previously held that status. God's description of Leviathan treating these metals as straw and rotten wood would have shocked ancient hearers by relativizing their greatest technological achievements.
Reflection Questions
- What 'iron' strengths or 'brass' securities do you rely on that are actually as weak as straw before spiritual realities?
- How does recognizing the limits of human strength drive you to depend on God's power?
- In what ways has God used your weakness to accomplish what your strength could not?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 6 wordsיַחְשֹׁ֣ב1 of 6
“He esteemeth”
H2803properly, to plait or interpenetrate, i.e., (literally) to weave or (generally) to fabricate; figuratively, to plot or contrive (usually in a maliciou
לְתֶ֣בֶן2 of 6
“as straw”
H8401properly, material, i.e., (specifically) refuse haum or stalks of grain (as chopped in threshing and used for fodder)
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 41:27 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.