Job 41:18Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

When He rises, the angels will tremble, and in their consternation, they will be sanctified. These statements can be understood as harking back to the dawn of creation. At that time, the angels recognized the magnitude of pride’s wickedness, particularly when the usurper who intended to impose dominion in heaven was cast down from his stronghold—then the angels stood firm in truth, unlike the devil, who faltered. Regarding the expression: when the devil is exalted, the angels will tremble and, in their fear, will be made pure, it should not be taken to mean that the angels will grow purer by acquiescing to the sin of pride. Rather, I believe it pertains to individuals who will join the ranks of angels as new beings, and once the devil faces judgment, they will be renewed.

In verse 17, it says that the sword will reach him; neither spear nor lance will withstand him (Job 41:18). In the Scriptures, the term ‘sword’ can signify various concepts: it sometimes refers to holy preaching, other times to eternal condemnation, to temporal suffering, or to the wrath or temptation from our ancient foe. ‘Sword’ represents holy preaching, as illustrated by Paul when he states that we have a spiritual sword, which is the Word of God (Eph. 6:17). It also indicates eternal condemnation, as noted in the case of the heretical preacher, where it is said, “If his sons be multiplied, they are under the sword” (Job 27:14), indicating that regardless of their numbers, they are destined for eternal perdition.

Although Job acknowledges his lack of understanding, the Lord once more encourages him to consider a depiction of divine power and authority (40: 1-2). To emphasize the insignificance and futility of humanity, God challenges Job to don his utmost greatness and measure himself against one of the earthly creatures, crafted by God's own hands (3-9). For illustration, God refers to the hippopotamus, or more aptly the elephant, which stands as a titan among terrestrial creatures, distinguished by its massive physique, formidable strength, and boldness, yet simultaneously capable of gentleness and vulnerability to hunters (10-19). In stark contrast, another behemoth of the waters, Leviathan, or crocodile, is impervious to capture by fishermen (20-27) and is fearsome in combat (41: 1-2). The intricate design of its jaws, the robust density of its scales, its powerful muscles, and its agile movements all converge to establish it as the most daring creature and sovereign of the seas (3-25).