Job 38:2-12

2 "Why do you confuse the issue? Why do you talk without knowing what you're talking about?

3 Pull yourself together, Job! Up on your feet! Stand tall! I have some questions for you, and I want some straight answers.

4 Where were you when I created the earth? Tell me, since you know so much!

5 Who decided on its size? Certainly you'll know that! Who came up with the blueprints and measurements?

6 How was its foundation poured, and who set the cornerstone,

7 While the morning stars sang in chorus and all the angels shouted praise?

8 And who took charge of the ocean when it gushed forth like a baby from the womb?

9 That was me! I wrapped it in soft clouds, and tucked it in safely at night.

10 Then I made a playpen for it, a strong playpen so it couldn't run loose,

11 And said, 'Stay here, this is your place. Your wild tantrums are confined to this place.'

12 "And have you ever ordered Morning, 'Get up!' told Dawn, 'Get to work!'

Job 38:2-12 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO JOB 38

In this chapter the Lord takes up the controversy with Job; calls upon him to prepare to engage with him in it, and demands an answer to posing questions he puts to him, concerning the earth and the fabric of it, Job 38:1-7; concerning the sea, compared to an infant in embryo, at its birth, in its swaddling bands and cradle, Job 38:8-11; concerning the morning light, its spread and influence, Job 38:12-15; concerning the springs of the sea, the dark parts of the earth, the place both of light and darkness, Job 38:16-21; concerning the various meteors, snow, hail, rain, thunder, lightning, and the influences of the stars, Job 38:22-38; and concerning provision for lions and ravens, Job 38:40,41.