Biblical Verses Biblical Verses & Resources

Book of Job - Chapter 40 - Verse 17

40:17
He moveth his tail like a cedar: the sinews of his stones are wrapped together.

Meaning

The verse 'He moveth his tail like a cedar: the sinews of his stones are wrapped together.' is a description of the Leviathan, a sea monster mentioned in the Bible. The imagery of the tail moving like a cedar tree conveys the immense size and power of this creature. Cedar trees were known for their strength and majesty, so comparing the Leviathan's tail to a cedar tree emphasizes its formidable nature. The reference to the sinews of his stones being wrapped together suggests the Leviathan's muscular and robust physique. In biblical literature, the Leviathan is often portrayed as a symbol of chaos and destruction, and its description in this verse serves to evoke fear and awe in the reader. Overall, this verse highlights the mythical and legendary aspects of the Leviathan, showcasing its awe-inspiring physical attributes and emphasizing its fearsome reputation.

Theological Overview

In this intriguing verse from the book of Job, the description of the creature's tail moving like a cedar tree and the sinews of his stones being tightly knit together brings to mind the image of a powerful and majestic beast. The use of the word 'cedar' is significant in biblical literature, as cedar trees were highly valued for their strength, durability, and beauty. In this context, it may symbolize the creature's impressive size and power. The mention of the sinews being wrapped together speaks to the creature's physical prowess and resilience. This imagery could be interpreted as emphasizing the creature's formidable nature and highlighting God's creative power and wisdom in designing such a magnificent creature. It reminds readers of the intricate and marvelous work of God in the animal kingdom, showcasing the diversity and complexity of His creation.

American Standard Version

He moveth his tail like a cedar: The sinews of his thighs are knit together.
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