Then the Lord answered Job out of the whirlwind, and said,
2
Who is this that darkeneth counsel by words without knowledge?
3
Gird up now thy loins like a man; for I will demand of thee, and answer thou me.
4
Where wast thou when I laid the foundations of the earth? declare, if thou hast understanding.
Job 38:1 — Frequently Asked Questions
7 questions
What does Job 38:1 say?
Job 38:1 in the King James Version reads: “Then the Lord answered Job out of the whirlwind, and said,”
Where is Job 38:1 in the Bible?
Job 38:1 is found in the Old Testament, in the book of Job, chapter 38, verse 1.
Who wrote Job?
Job is traditionally attributed to Anonymous; among the oldest books of the Bible. It was written Unknown; possibly c. 2000–1800 BC, with composition c. 1400–500 BC.
What is the book of Job about?
Job is the ancient story of a righteous man stripped of everything he has, and the four friends who try and fail to explain his suffering. When God finally speaks, he does not answer the "why" — he reveals himself, and Job worships from a place deeper than his pain.
What are the major themes of Job?
Job explores themes including Suffering, Sovereignty, Faith Under Trial, Wisdom, God's Majesty. These themes shape the meaning and context of Job 38:1.
What translation should I read Job 38:1 in?
Job 38:1 is available on GodsGoodBook in the King James Version (KJV), American Standard Version (ASV), World English Bible (WEB), NET Bible, Young's Literal Translation, Darby Bible, Douay-Rheims Bible, and the Bible in Basic English. Each translation reflects different translation philosophies — use the translation picker on this page to compare them, or browse our full translations directory.
How can I memorize Job 38:1?
Job 38:1 reads (KJV): “Then the Lord answered Job out of the whirlwind, and said,” Read it aloud, break it into short phrases, repeat each phrase three times before adding the next, then put the phrases together. Reading it in multiple translations (above) often helps the meaning settle.