Strength resides in his neck
The Hebrew word for "strength" here is "עֹז" (oz), which conveys a sense of might, power, and fortitude. In the context of Job 41, this strength is attributed to the Leviathan, a creature of immense power and fearsome presence. The neck, often a symbol of pride and resilience in ancient texts, suggests that the Leviathan's power is not just in its physical might but also in its unyielding nature. This imagery serves to remind us of the awe-inspiring power of God's creation, which is beyond human control or understanding. The neck being the seat of strength emphasizes the creature's invulnerability and the futility of human efforts to subdue it, pointing to the sovereignty of God over all creation.

and dismay leaps before him
The word "dismay" is translated from the Hebrew "דְּאָבָה" (de'ava), which implies terror, fear, or a sense of overwhelming dread. The phrase "leaps before him" suggests that this fear is not passive but active and dynamic, almost as if it has a life of its own. The imagery here is vivid, portraying the Leviathan as a creature whose mere presence causes chaos and fear to spring forth. This serves as a metaphor for the overwhelming and sometimes incomprehensible nature of God's power and the natural world. In a broader theological context, it reminds believers of the fear of the Lord, which is the beginning of wisdom (Proverbs 9:10). The fear that leaps before the Leviathan is a reflection of the reverence and awe that humanity should have towards God, who is the creator of all things, including the mighty Leviathan. This verse, therefore, calls us to recognize our own limitations and the greatness of God, encouraging a posture of humility and trust in His divine wisdom and power.

1. Job
A righteous man tested by God through severe trials, including the loss of his wealth, health, and family. The book of Job explores themes of suffering, divine sovereignty, and human righteousness.

2. Leviathan
A powerful and fearsome creature described in Job 41, often interpreted as a symbol of chaos or evil. The description of Leviathan serves to illustrate God's unmatched power and the futility of human strength against divine creation.

3. God
The Almighty Creator who speaks to Job out of the whirlwind, challenging Job's understanding of divine wisdom and power through the description of Leviathan and other creatures.

4. The Sea
Often associated with chaos and danger in ancient Near Eastern literature, the sea is the natural habitat of Leviathan, symbolizing the uncontrollable aspects of creation that only God can tame.

5. The Whirlwind
The medium through which God speaks to Job, signifying divine presence and authority. It emphasizes the overwhelming power and majesty of God in contrast to human limitations.God's Sovereignty Over Creation
The description of Leviathan in Job 41, including verse 22, underscores God's absolute control over all creation, even the most fearsome and untamable creatures. Believers are reminded of God's unmatched power and authority.

Human Limitations and Divine Wisdom
The passage challenges human pride and self-reliance by illustrating the vast difference between human and divine capabilities. It encourages humility and trust in God's wisdom and plans.

The Reality of Spiritual Warfare
Leviathan can be seen as a metaphor for spiritual battles and the presence of evil in the world. Christians are called to rely on God's strength and protection in facing such challenges.

The Assurance of God's Protection
Despite the intimidating nature of Leviathan, believers can find comfort in knowing that God, who controls even the most powerful forces, is their protector and refuge.(22) Sorrow is turned into joy before him.--Literally, and before him danceth fear, or pining sorrow exulteth before him. A marvellous personification of the terror which goes with him wherever he goes.

Verse 22. - In his neck remaineth strength. It has been well remarked that the whale has no neck, or at any rate none {hat is visible, while the crocodile has one that is of great strength, and that naturally attracts observation. "Le cou assez marque," says the 'Dictionnaire des Sciences' (l.s.c.). It is nearly of the same diameter with the head at the point of junction, and where it adjoins the body is still larger. And sorrow is turned into joy before him; rather, and terror rid'seth before him (see the Revised Version). Whithersoever he proceeds, he causes terror; people tremble, take to flight, and disappear.

Parallel Commentaries ...


Strength
עֹ֑ז (‘ōz)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 5797: Strength, might

resides
יָלִ֣ין (yā·lîn)
Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 3885: To stop, to stay permanently, to be obstinate

in his neck,
בְּֽ֭צַוָּארוֹ (bə·ṣaw·wā·rōw)
Preposition-b | Noun - masculine singular construct | third person masculine singular
Strong's 6677: The back of the neck

and dismay
דְּאָבָֽה׃ (də·’ā·ḇāh)
Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 1670: Faintness, dismay

leaps
תָּד֥וּץ (tā·ḏūṣ)
Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person feminine singular
Strong's 1750: To spring, leap, dance

before him.
וּ֝לְפָנָ֗יו (ū·lə·p̄ā·nāw)
Conjunctive waw, Preposition-l | Noun - common plural construct | third person masculine singular
Strong's 6440: The face


Job 41:22 NIV
Job 41:22 NLT
Job 41:22 ESV
Job 41:22 NASB
Job 41:22 KJV

Job 41:22 BibleApps.com
Job 41:22 Biblia Paralela
Job 41:22 Chinese Bible
Job 41:22 French Bible
Job 41:22 Catholic Bible

OT Poetry: Job 41:22 There is strength in his neck (Jb)