King James Version
What Does Job 41:4 Mean?
“Will he make a covenant with thee? wilt thou take him for a servant for ever?”
Job 41:4 · KJV
Context
2
Canst thou put an hook into his nose? or bore his jaw through with a thorn?
3
Will he make many supplications unto thee? will he speak soft words unto thee?
4
Will he make a covenant with thee? wilt thou take him for a servant for ever?
5
Wilt thou play with him as with a bird? or wilt thou bind him for thy maidens?
6
Shall the companions make a banquet of him? shall they part him among the merchants?
Commentary
KJV Study Commentary"Will he make a covenant with thee? wilt thou take him for a servant for ever?" Leviathan cannot be bound by covenant (berit, בְּרִית) or enslaved as a servant (eved, עֶבֶד). It remains free, untamed, beyond human authority. God designed certain aspects of creation to resist domestication, preserving wildness that demonstrates divine sovereignty. This teaches that not everything should be brought under human control; some things glorify God precisely by remaining beyond human dominion.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
Ancient societies relied on domesticated animals and covenant relationships. Leviathan's resistance to both demonstrated that God preserves aspects of creation exclusively under His control. This humbled human pretensions to comprehensive mastery over nature and circumstances.
Reflection Questions
- What areas are you trying to domesticate or control that God intends to remain wild and free?
- How does accepting certain things beyond your control paradoxically increase your freedom and peace?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 6 wordsהֲיִכְרֹ֣ת1 of 6
“Will he make”
H3772to cut (off, down or asunder); by implication, to destroy or consume; specifically, to covenant (i.e., make an alliance or bargain, originally by cutt
עִמָּ֑ךְ3 of 6
H5973adverb or preposition, with (i.e., in conjunction with), in varied applications; specifically, equally with; often with prepositional prefix (and then
עוֹלָֽם׃6 of 6
“for ever”
H5769properly, concealed, i.e., the vanishing point; generally, time out of mind (past or future), i.e., (practically) eternity; frequentatively, adverbial
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 41:4 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 41:4 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge