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What is Behemoth in the Bible? – Viral Believer
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What is Behemoth in the Bible?

Introduction

The Bible is a vast and fascinating collection of stories, teachings, and divine revelations. Many of its passages and descriptions captivate the imagination and prompt deep reflection. One such enigmatic figure is the Behemoth, a creature mentioned in the Book of Job.

In this blog post, we will explore what the Bible has to say about the Behemoth, its significance in biblical context, and the various interpretations that have arisen throughout history.

The Behemoth is primarily mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Job, which is considered one of the oldest books in the Bible. The story of Job is a profound exploration of faith, suffering, and divine justice, and the Behemoth plays a unique role in this narrative.

As we delve into the nature of this creature and its meaning within the biblical framework, we will uncover the depths of the Book of Job and the richness of its symbolism.

Join us as we embark on a journey to understand the Behemoth and its place in the Bible. Together, we will examine the text of the New King James Version (NKJV), as well as the scholarly interpretations and debates surrounding this mysterious figure.

Our goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the Behemoth’s role in the biblical narrative and its significance for Evangelical Christians today.

behemoth in the Bible

The Behemoth in the Book of Job

The Behemoth is mentioned in the Book of Job, specifically in Chapter 40. In this part of the story, God is responding to Job’s complaints about his suffering and challenging Job’s understanding of divine justice.

God’s response takes the form of a series of rhetorical questions and vivid descriptions of various aspects of creation, including the Behemoth:

“Look now at the behemoth, which I made along with you; he eats grass like an ox. See now, his strength is in his hips, and his power is in his stomach muscles. He moves his tail like a cedar; the sinews of his thighs are tightly knit. His bones are like beams of bronze, his ribs like bars of iron. He is the first of the ways of God; only He who made him can bring near His sword.” (Job 40:15-19, NKJV)

This passage portrays the Behemoth as an awe-inspiring creature with immense strength and power. The description highlights the animal’s physical attributes, emphasizing its size, strength, and resilience.

The Behemoth is said to be the “first of the ways of God,” suggesting that it holds a special place in God’s creation.

Interpreting the Behemoth

A Literal Interpretation

Some scholars and readers of the Bible interpret the Behemoth as a literal, physical creature that existed in ancient times. Various animals have been proposed as candidates for the identity of the Behemoth, including the elephant, hippopotamus, and even extinct species like the sauropod dinosaur.

Proponents of this view argue that the detailed description of the Behemoth’s physical features points to a real, historical animal.

However, a literal interpretation of the Behemoth is not without its challenges. For instance, the description of the Behemoth’s tail being like a cedar tree (Job 40:17) does not align well with any known animal. This discrepancy has led many scholars to search for alternative interpretations.

A Symbolic Interpretation

Another perspective on the Behemoth is that it is a symbolic or metaphorical figure rather than a literal animal. In this view, the Behemoth represents the untamed forces of nature and the powerful, wild aspects of God’s creation.

By describing the Behemoth in such vivid and awe-inspiring terms, the text emphasizes the vastness and complexity of the natural world and the limits of human understanding.

In this context, the Behemoth serves to highlight the grandeur of God’s creative power and to remind Job of his own insignificance in the face of divine wisdom.

By invoking the image of the Behemoth, God demonstrates that there are aspects of creation that are beyond human comprehension and control, and thus Job’s understanding of justice and suffering is limited and flawed.

A Combination of Literal and Symbolic Meanings

Some scholars propose a combined interpretation, suggesting that the Behemoth may have been based on a real animal but is also imbued with symbolic significance.

In this view, the Behemoth’s identity as a specific creature is less important than the message it conveys about the greatness of God and the limits of human understanding.

This combined approach allows for a richer understanding of the biblical text, as it acknowledges the possibility of a historical basis for the Behemoth while also recognizing the symbolic depth of the passage.

The Behemoth’s Significance for Evangelical Christians

Regardless of the specific interpretation one chooses, the Behemoth serves as a powerful reminder of God’s sovereignty and the limits of human understanding. For Evangelical Christians, this message is particularly relevant as it underscores the importance of humility and faith in the face of suffering and adversity.

The story of Job and the Behemoth also serves as a cautionary tale against questioning God’s wisdom and justice.

While it is natural for believers to grapple with the problem of suffering and to seek understanding, the Behemoth teaches us that there are aspects of God’s creation and plan that will always remain beyond our comprehension.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Behemoth is an enigmatic and captivating figure in the Bible, stirring the imagination and prompting deep reflection. Its presence in the Book of Job serves to emphasize the grandeur and complexity of God’s creation, as well as the limits of human understanding.

As Evangelical Christians, we can learn from the Behemoth’s story to approach our faith with humility and to trust in God’s wisdom, even when faced with suffering and adversity. By doing so, we can grow in our relationship with God and develop a deeper appreciation for the mysteries of His creation.

In our quest to understand the Behemoth, we have journeyed through the text of the Bible, scholarly interpretations, and the rich symbolism of this enigmatic figure.

While the precise identity of the Behemoth remains a subject of debate, its significance in the biblical narrative and its lessons for believers are clear. May the story of the Behemoth inspire us to embrace the mysteries of our faith and to trust in God’s infinite wisdom and love.

Pastor Duke Taber
Pastor Duke Taber

Pastor Duke Taber

All articles have been written or reviewed by Pastor Duke Taber.
Pastor Duke Taber is an alumnus of Life Pacific University and Multnomah Biblical Seminary.
He has been in pastoral ministry since 1988.
Today he is the owner and managing editor of 3 successful Christian websites that support missionaries around the world.
He is currently starting a brand new church in Mesquite NV called Mesquite Worship Center, a Non-Denominational Spirit Filled Christian church in Mesquite Nevada.