King James Version
What Does Job 41:29 Mean?
“Darts are counted as stubble: he laugheth at the shaking of a spear.”
Job 41:29 · KJV
Context
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.
30
Sharp stones are under him: he spreadeth sharp pointed things upon the mire. Sharp stones: Heb. Sharp pieces of potsherd
31
He maketh the deep to boil like a pot: he maketh the sea like a pot of ointment.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryThe catalog of useless weapons concludes with close combat arms. 'Darts are counted as stubble' (ke-qash nechshevu totach, כְּקַשׁ נֶחְשְׁבוּ תּוֹתָח) describes how Leviathan regards clubs or javelins as mere chaff. 'He laugheth at the shaking of a spear' (yis'chaq le-ra'ash kidon, יִשְׂחַק לְרַעַשׁ כִּידוֹן) depicts the creature's contempt for even the threatening gesture of brandished weapons. The verb 'laugheth' (sachaq, שָׂחַק) suggests scorn and derision—Leviathan mocks human military threats. This anthropomorphization emphasizes the vast gulf between human power and this divine creation. Theologically, the verse warns against presumption—approaching spiritual enemies with human confidence leads to defeat and mockery. It also reveals God's perspective on human pride: our mightiest achievements are laughable to Him when employed in rebellion. Yet the verse also offers hope: the God who created Leviathan to laugh at human weapons can easily defeat all enemies on our behalf.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
Spears were the primary weapon of ancient infantry, and their shaking (brandishing) before battle was intended to intimidate enemies. Warriors would clash spears against shields while shouting to inspire fear. Leviathan's laughter at this display completely reverses the expected power dynamic, showing human intimidation tactics failing against this creature.
Reflection Questions
- What spiritual intimidation tactics do you employ that are actually laughable to the enemy you face?
- How does recognizing God's power over what mocks human strength encourage you in spiritual warfare?
- In what areas of life do you need to stop relying on your 'spear shaking' and trust God's power instead?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 6 wordsנֶחְשְׁב֣וּ2 of 6
“are counted”
H2803properly, to plait or interpenetrate, i.e., (literally) to weave or (generally) to fabricate; figuratively, to plot or contrive (usually in a maliciou
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 41:29 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 41:29 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge