Commentary on Job 39:19

Job 39:19 states: "Hast thou given the horse strength? hast thou clothed his neck with thunder?" This verse presents a profound inquiry into the strength and capabilities of the horse, drawing attention to the Creator’s sovereignty over creation, specifically looking into the majesty of equine creatures and the divine wisdom that equips them.

Contextual Background

The Book of Job primarily explores themes of suffering, divine sovereignty, and the nature of God’s justice. In this specific section, God is responding to Job's earlier lamentations, showcasing the wonders of creation as a way to draw Job’s attention back to the divine perspective.

Insights from Commentaries

Matthew Henry

Matthew Henry highlights that this verse illustrates God's immense power in creation. He emphasizes that the horse, a creature known for its strength and agility, is an example of the divine attributes. The phrase "clothed his neck with thunder" metaphorically signifies both the power and the magnificence of the horse, suggesting that its strength evokes awe and respect.

Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes notes that this rhetorical question serves to remind Job of his limited understanding of the natural world. The mention of the horse as an embodiment of strength serves a dual purpose: it illustrates God's creative prowess and the unique abilities bestowed upon creatures for their designated roles. Barnes posits that this speaks to the broader governance of God where every creature is designed with purpose and skill, ultimately contributing to the order of creation.

Adam Clarke

Adam Clarke provides an in-depth exegesis of this verse by dissecting the attributes of the horse and its symbolic representation in ancient cultures. The horse, often seen as a symbol of strength and nobility in battle, reflects divine artifice. Clarke explains that the mention of the neck being “clothed with thunder” signifies the raw power that horses exhibit in their gallop, likening it to the might of a storm, thus showcasing God’s creative authority. Clarke also elaborates on the historical significance of horses in human endeavor, bridging the creation's role and human interaction.

Theological Implications

The verse challenges readers to reflect on the nature of God's creation and the inherent strengths imbued within it. It reminds believers that every feature of creation serves a divine purpose and is a testament to the wisdom of the Creator. This reflection leads to a deeper reverence for God’s design and the acknowledgment of human limitations in understanding His vast and intricate creation.

Application for Pastors and Theologians

• Divine Sovereignty: This passage serves as a reminder of God's ultimate authority over all creation. Pastors can convey this message in sermons to emphasize reliance on God's superior wisdom.
• Creation and Purpose: The strength of the horse can be used as a metaphor for the purpose and roles that God assigns to each creature, including humanity. This encourages believers to seek their purpose within the divine framework.
• Awareness of Limitations: The rhetorical questions posed by God invites humility in our understanding and perspective on suffering and the world, prompting pastors to teach congregants about the importance of trust in divine wisdom.

Conclusion

Job 39:19 encapsulates a significant moment in Job's journey, where he is confronted with the majesty of God through the examination of the horse's strength. The combined insights from various commentators enrich the understanding of this verse, making it a powerful reflection on divine sovereignty, human limitations, and the intricate design of creation. For scholars and theologians, this verse calls for an appreciation of the created order and invites a deeper theological reflection on God's governance over all He has made.