17 Its tail sways like a cedar; the sinews of its thighs are close-knit.

Other Translations of Job 40:17

King James Version

17 He moveth his tail like a cedar: the sinews of his stones are wrapped together.

English Standard Version

17 He makes his tail stiff like a cedar; the sinews of his thighs are knit together.

The Message

17 His tail sways like a cedar in the wind; his huge legs are like beech trees.

New King James Version

17 He moves his tail like a cedar; The sinews of his thighs are tightly knit.

New Living Translation

17 Its tail is as strong as a cedar. The sinews of its thighs are knit tightly together.

Matthew Henry's Commentary on Job 40:17

Commentary on Job 40:15-24

(Read Job 40:15-24)

God, for the further proving of his own power, describes two vast animals, far exceeding man in bulk and strength. Behemoth signifies beasts. Most understand it of an animal well known in Egypt, called the river-horse, or hippopotamus. This vast animal is noticed as an argument to humble ourselves before the great God; for he created this vast animal, which is so fearfully and wonderfully made. Whatever strength this or any other creature has, it is derived from God. He that made the soul of man, knows all the ways to it, and can make the sword of justice, his wrath, to approach and touch it. Every godly man has spiritual weapons, the whole armour of God, to resist, yea, to overcome the tempter, that his never-dying soul may be safe, whatever becomes of his frail flesh and mortal body.