King James Version
What Does Job 41:32 Mean?
“He maketh a path to shine after him; one would think the deep to be hoary.”
Job 41:32 · KJV
Context
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.
32
He maketh a path to shine after him; one would think the deep to be hoary.
33
Upon earth there is not his like, who is made without fear. is made without fear: or, behave themselves without fear
34
He beholdeth all high things: he is a king over all the children of pride.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryGod's description of Leviathan's wake concludes His questioning. 'He maketh a path to shine after him' (acharaiv ya'ir natib, אַחֲרָיו יָאִיר נָתִיב) describes the luminous trail left in the creature's wake. 'One would think the deep to be hoary' (yachshob tehom le-seivah, יַחְשֹׁב תְּהוֹם לְשֵׂיבָה) suggests the churned water appears white or gray like an old person's hair. This bioluminescent or turbulent wake emphasizes Leviathan's visibility and impact—the creature cannot be hidden or ignored. The shining path also metaphorically represents evil's visible trail and consequences. Sin leaves evidence, marking its passage with destruction. Yet the verse also suggests glory—the path shines, commanding attention and even admiration for the creature's power. This paradox reflects how evil can appear glorious while remaining destructive, requiring spiritual discernment to recognize its true nature.
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Historical & Cultural Context
Ancient sailors reported phosphorescent wakes behind sea creatures, particularly in tropical waters where bioluminescent organisms create glowing trails. This natural phenomenon would appear supernatural to observers, enhancing Leviathan's mystique. The white, churned water behind large aquatic animals was also well documented, creating visible paths across otherwise uniform seas.
Reflection Questions
- What 'shining paths' of sin in your life leave visible evidence you've tried to ignore?
- How do you discern between what appears glorious but is actually destructive?
- In what ways does recognizing the visible consequences of evil increase your vigilance against temptation?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 6 wordsאַ֭חֲרָיו1 of 6
“after”
H310properly, the hind part; generally used as an adverb or conjunction, after (in various senses)
יַחְשֹׁ֖ב4 of 6
“him one would think”
H2803properly, to plait or interpenetrate, i.e., (literally) to weave or (generally) to fabricate; figuratively, to plot or contrive (usually in a maliciou
תְּה֣וֹם5 of 6
“the deep”
H8415an abyss (as a surging mass of water), especially the deep (the main sea or the subterranean watersupply)
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 41:32 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 41:32 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge