Job 39:7

He scorneth the multitude of the city, neither regardeth he the crying of the driver.

Job 39:7 (KJV)

Context

In Job 39, God answers Job from the whirlwind by pointing to the natural world. The creature in Job 39:7 is the wild ass, named in Job 39:5. God describes it as free and untamable, unlike the domesticated donkey that serves people. This speech is part of God’s larger response where He demonstrates His sovereignty and wisdom by showing Job creatures that defy human mastery.

Meaning

The wild ass scorns the city’s noise and ignores the driver’s shout. The Hebrew word for “scorneth” conveys contempt or derision, and “multitude” can mean tumult, emphasizing the animal’s indifference to urban chaos. The driver is a taskmaster who forces labor, but the wild ass does not heed his voice. This freedom is not rebellion but a God-given design. The wild donkey’s independence is deliberate, not accidental, reflecting God’s sovereign ordering of the natural world.

Biblical connections

In Job 38-41, God’s speeches reveal His incomprehensible wisdom and power. The wild donkey’s independence shows that creation operates beyond human control. It humbles Job, reminding him that he cannot govern such creatures. The contrast with the tame ass underscores the diversity of God’s creation. This verse is often cited to illustrate God’s care for and delight in His creation, even those parts that are wild and free.

Application

This verse calls us to humility. We have limited understanding and control over the world. Just as the wild ass does not respond to human commands, we trust in God’s ultimate authority. Even when circumstances seem chaotic, we rely on His wisdom and sovereignty. The wild donkey’s scorn is not a model for human rebellion but a sign of God’s creative genius. It serves as a rebuke to human pride, reminding us that we are not the center of the universe.

Reflection

Contemplating the wild and free parts of creation leads us to marvel at God’s creativity. This appreciation inspires us to care for the environment as faithful stewards. The wild donkey’s freedom is a testimony to God’s glory, inviting us to worship Him for His magnificent works. God’s ways are often beyond our understanding, yet we can trust His wisdom and power displayed in all He has made.