Definition: [Art] thou the first man [that] was born? or wast thou made before the hills?
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this biblical passage together. It's a really thought-provoking question from the book of Job! Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Core Idea: This verse is asking about the origin of humanity – specifically, who was the first person to be born. It’s a bit of a philosophical and theological question. Let's unpack it: “Thou art the first man…” - This part is straightforward: It’s questioning if someone is the very first human being. “…that [that] was born?” - This is where it gets interesting. The word “that” is key. It suggests that this person must have been born – they weren't created. "...or wast thou made before the hills?" - This is the crucial part and what makes it so profound. "The hills" refers to the landscape surrounding the Earth’s surface, specifically to the mountains. It implies a very early time in Earth’s history – much earlier than we typically think. Possible Interpretations (and why it's complex): A Very Old Beginning: Some people interpret this as suggesting that humanity emerged from a primordial state of earth and water, very early in the planet’s history. It suggests a long, gradual development rather than a sudden creation. The Divine Creation: Another interpretation is that God created humans before the hills – perhaps in a way that places them at the very beginning of existence. Important Note: The Bible doesn't provide a definitive answer to what this verse means . It’s a philosophical question raised by Job, who was experiencing profound grief and questioning about his own life and purpose. It highlights themes of creation, time, and the nature of humanity. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible passage? Discuss the context of this verse within the book of Job? Explore related theological concepts?