Definition: For he maketh sore, and bindeth up: he woundeth, and his hands make whole.
Explanation: Okay, let's break down this beautiful and somewhat complex verse from Job 5:18. It’s a really poetic way of saying something profound about the nature of God. Here’s a simplified explanation: Overall Meaning: This verse describes God's power and control over creation. It suggests that God isn't just making things, but also actively binding them up and repairing them when they are damaged – and sometimes even making things worse before fixing them. Let’s unpack it word by word: “For he maketh sore…” - This means "He makes something painful" or “He causes damage.” It's not a gentle process; it’s active creation with potential for harm. “…and bindeth up:” – This is a key phrase. "Bindeth up" suggests holding something together, securing it, and containing it. It implies a forceful action. “He woundeth…” - This means “He hurts” or “He causes suffering.” "...and his hands make whole." – This is the surprising part! It’s like saying that God can also repair things and restore them to their original state, even after causing harm. It suggests a masterful ability to mend what's broken. Putting it all together: Job 5:18 says that God actively works on creation – he causes damage, hurts things, and then, miraculously, he also repairs and restores them. It’s a testament to God’s power, wisdom, and ability to work through challenges. It highlights the idea that even in suffering, there’s an element of restoration and healing. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a reflection on human limitations – we can't fully understand or control all things. God’s actions are beyond our grasp, but he is always working to bring order and goodness into the world. In short, it’s a statement about God’s active and restorative power. --- Would you like me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the meaning in a different context (e.g., its connection to human suffering)?