No one is so fierce as to rouse Leviathan.
In the context of Job 41, Leviathan is depicted as a powerful and untamable creature, often associated with a sea monster or dragon-like being. This imagery is rooted in ancient Near Eastern mythology, where such creatures symbolized chaos and were believed to be subdued by deities. In the biblical narrative, Leviathan represents the ultimate challenge to human strength and courage, emphasizing the limitations of human power. The mention of Leviathan serves to highlight God's sovereignty over all creation, including the most formidable forces. This creature is also referenced in other parts of Scripture, such as Psalm 74:14 and Isaiah 27:1, where it symbolizes God's victory over chaos and evil. The inability of anyone to rouse Leviathan underscores the futility of human efforts against divine power.

Then who is able to stand against Me?
This rhetorical question shifts the focus from Leviathan to God Himself, drawing a parallel between the creature's untamable nature and God's unmatched authority. It serves as a reminder of God's omnipotence and the reverence due to Him. The question implies that if no one can confront Leviathan, a mere creature, then certainly no one can stand against the Creator. This theme is consistent throughout Scripture, where God's power and majesty are emphasized, as seen in passages like Isaiah 40:12-31 and Romans 9:20-21. The question also invites reflection on human humility and the need for submission to God's will. In a broader theological context, it points to the ultimate authority of God over all creation, including the forces of evil, and foreshadows the final victory of God as depicted in Revelation.

1. Job
A man of great faith and patience, who undergoes severe trials and suffering. The book of Job is a dialogue about his experiences and the nature of God's justice.

2. Leviathan
A powerful and fearsome creature mentioned in the Bible, often interpreted as a symbol of chaos or evil. In Job 41, it represents something beyond human control or understanding.

3. God
The Almighty Creator, who speaks to Job out of the whirlwind, emphasizing His sovereignty and the limits of human understanding.

4. The Whirlwind
The medium through which God speaks to Job, symbolizing divine power and majesty.

5. The Book of Job
A poetic and philosophical text in the Old Testament that explores themes of suffering, divine justice, and human limitation.God's Sovereignty
The verse underscores God's unmatched power and authority. Just as no one can confront Leviathan, no one can stand against God. This calls for reverence and awe in our relationship with Him.

Human Limitation
Recognizing our limitations is crucial. We are reminded that there are forces and aspects of creation beyond our control, pointing us to rely on God's wisdom and strength.

Trust in God's Power
In times of fear or uncertainty, we can find comfort in God's supreme power. If He can control Leviathan, He can certainly handle the challenges we face.

Humility Before God
This passage encourages humility. Understanding that we cannot stand against God should lead us to submit to His will and seek His guidance in our lives.

Faith in God's Justice
Even when we do not understand our circumstances, we can trust that God's justice and plans are perfect, as He is the ultimate authority over all creation.(10) None is so fierce that dare stir him up.--"If, therefore, the creatures of My hand strike so much terror, how far more terrible must I be? If thou canst not save thyself from them, how much less canst thou be saved without Me?" (See Job 40:14.) The first clause may be understood thus: "He is not so cruel (the common meaning of the word rendered fierce)--i.e., to himself--that he should venture to rouse him up."

Verse 10. - None is so fierce that dare stir him up. The crocodile is often seen asleep, or nearly asleep, upon sand-banks washed by the Nile. He would be a bold man who should creep near, and stir him up. Who then is able to stand before me? Here we reach the point whereto the whole argument has been working up. If man cannot cope with creatures, which are the work of God's hands, how much leas can he presume to cope with him who is their Maker!

Parallel Commentaries ...


No one
לֹֽא־ (lō-)
Adverb - Negative particle
Strong's 3808: Not, no

is ferocious
אַ֭כְזָר (’aḵ·zār)
Adjective - masculine singular
Strong's 393: Violent, deadly, brave

enough to
כִּ֣י (kî)
Conjunction
Strong's 3588: A relative conjunction

rouse Leviathan.
יְעוּרֶ֑נּוּ (yə·‘ū·ren·nū)
Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine singular | third person masculine singular
Strong's 5782: To rouse oneself, awake

Then who
וּמִ֥י (ū·mî)
Conjunctive waw | Interrogative
Strong's 4310: Who?, whoever, in oblique construction with prefix, suffix

is able to stand
יִתְיַצָּֽב׃ (yiṯ·yaṣ·ṣāḇ)
Verb - Hitpael - Imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 3320: To set or station oneself, take one's stand

against Me?
לְפָנַ֥י (lə·p̄ā·nay)
Preposition-l | Noun - masculine plural construct | first person common singular
Strong's 6440: The face


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OT Poetry: Job 41:10 None is so fierce that he dare (Jb)