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Book of Job - Chapter 38 - Verse 21

38:21
Knowest thou it, because thou wast then born? or because the number of thy days is great?

Meaning

The verse indicates a rhetorical question posed by God to Job, challenging him to consider whether his wisdom and understanding come from his own innate knowledge or from the vast experience he has gained over many years. In the larger context of the Book of Job, this verse is part of God's response to Job's questioning of his suffering. God is highlighting the limitations of human knowledge and experience compared to the infinite wisdom of God. By questioning whether Job's understanding comes solely from his own birth and years on earth, God is reminding Job of the greater perspective and wisdom that God possesses. This verse serves as a reminder that human understanding is limited, and true wisdom comes from acknowledging and seeking God's guidance and wisdom beyond our own limited understanding.

Theological Overview

The verse 'Knowest thou it, because thou wast then born? or because the number of thy days is great?' found in Job 38:21 is part of a series of questions posed by God to Job, challenging him to consider the vastness of God's wisdom and understanding. The phrase 'Knowest thou it' implies a sense of humility and a recognition of human limitations in comparison to God's infinite knowledge. The question about being born refers to the idea that human understanding is limited by our finite existence and our limited perspective in the grand scheme of God's creation. The reference to the number of days being great suggests that even with a long life, human knowledge is still limited in comparison to God's eternal wisdom. This verse serves as a reminder that our understanding is limited, but God's wisdom is boundless and beyond our comprehension. Through theological interpretation and word studies, we can delve deeper into the significance of these questions and gain a greater appreciation for God's sovereignty and wisdom.

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