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Book of Job - Chapter 39 - Verse 29

39:29
From thence she seeketh the prey, and her eyes behold afar off.

Meaning

This verse from the book of Job describes the impressive hunting capabilities of a female lion. The lioness is depicted as a cunning and patient predator, who carefully observes her surroundings from a distance before making her move. This behavior is a testament to the lioness's skill and strategy as a hunter, allowing her to successfully seek out and capture her prey. The verse speaks to the natural instincts and survival techniques of these majestic creatures, highlighting their ability to provide for themselves and their pride. It also serves as a reminder of the circle of life in the animal kingdom, where predator and prey must coexist in order to maintain balance in the ecosystem. Overall, this verse offers a glimpse into the remarkable abilities of the lioness and the intricacies of the natural world.

Theological Overview

The verse "From thence she seeketh the prey, and her eyes behold afar off," from the book of Job 39:29, can be interpreted in a theological sense as a depiction of the instinctual behavior of a wild animal. In this case, the "she" referring to a predator seeking its prey illustrates the natural order of the animal kingdom. This verse emphasizes the innate nature of animals to hunt and feed themselves as part of God's design in creation.

A word study of this verse could focus on the word "prey," which in Hebrew is translated as "טֶ֫רֶף" (tereph). This word signifies something torn, such as carrion or prey. In the context of the verse, "prey" symbolizes sustenance and survival for the predator, highlighting the provision of God for all His creatures in the wild. The phrase "her eyes behold afar off" suggests the keen sight and awareness of the predator when seeking its prey, emphasizing the precision and planning in God's creation.

Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the intricate balance and order in the natural world, reflecting God's wisdom and providence in providing for all living creatures according to their needs.

American Standard Version

From thence she spieth out the prey; Her eyes behold it afar off.
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