King James Version

What Does Job 41:5 Mean?

Job 41:5 in the King James Version says “Wilt thou play with him as with a bird? or wilt thou bind him for thy maidens?” — study this verse from Job chapter 41 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Wilt thou play with him as with a bird? or wilt thou bind him for thy maidens?”

Job 41:5 · KJV

Context

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?

7

Canst thou fill his skin with barbed irons? or his head with fish spears?

Read Job 41 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
"Wilt thou play with him as with a bird? or wilt thou bind him for thy maidens?" Can Job treat Leviathan as a pet—playing with it or giving it to servants? The absurdity is intentional. The Hebrew tesachaq (תְּשַׂחֶק, "play/sport with") and binding for maidens emphasizes the ridiculous gap between Leviathan's power and human attempts at control. This teaches that some realities demand respect, not casual treatment. Certain aspects of creation, providence, and divine governance must be approached with appropriate reverence.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Ancient households kept birds and small animals as pets or gave them to children. The contrast between such harmless creatures and Leviathan emphasized absurdity of treating powerful forces casually. This taught proper fear and respect for aspects of reality beyond human mastery.

Reflection Questions

  1. What aspects of God's creation or providence do you treat too casually, needing more reverent respect?
  2. How does appropriate fear of overwhelming realities produce wisdom rather than paralyzing anxiety?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 5 words
הַֽתְשַׂחֶק1 of 5

“Wilt thou play”

H7832

to laugh (in pleasure or detraction); by implication, to play

בּ֭וֹ2 of 5
H0
כַּצִּפּ֑וֹר3 of 5

“with him as with a bird”

H6833

a little bird (as hopping)

וְ֝תִקְשְׁרֶ֗נּוּ4 of 5

“or wilt thou bind”

H7194

to tie, physically (gird, confine, compact) or mentally (in love, league)

לְנַעֲרוֹתֶֽיךָ׃5 of 5

“him for thy maidens”

H5291

a girl (from infancy to adolescence)

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 41:5 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 41:5 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Judges 16:25-30Job 28:11

Test Your Knowledge

Job 41 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterJob Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

Read Job 41 with CommentaryAll Job ChaptersComplete Job QuizBible CharactersNave's Topical BibleAll Bible Quizzes