What Species Could the Behemoth and Leviathan of Job Be?

The Behemoth and Leviathan described in the Book of Job, chapters 40 and 41, have long fascinated scholars, theologians, and naturalists. The vivid and often controversal descriptions of these creatures have led to a myriad of interpretations regarding their identities, with some suggesting dinosaurs, and others favoring more familiar animals like an alligator or an elephant. This article explores the traditional and modern interpretations of Behemoth and Leviathan and why they are often linked to these specific animals.

The Behemoth of Job 40:15-24

Behemoth is described as a powerful creature that eats grass like an ox, with a tail as solid as a cedar tree. The text mentions that its bones are like tubes of bronze, and its limbs are like bars of iron. These descriptions have led to a variety of identifications, each backed by different arguments and cultural contexts.

Traditional Identifications

Hippopotamus: Some scholars suggest this ancient creature as a possible identification because of its large size, herbivorous diet, and habitat in rivers and riverscapes. Elephant: Others propose that an elephant could be Behemoth, especially considering its massive size and strength. However, the tail description does not align perfectly. Dinosaur: Some speculate that Behemoth might refer to a large prehistoric creature, though this interpretation is less common in traditional exegesis.

The Leviathan of Job 41

Leviathan, on the other hand, is described as a fearsome sea creature with formidable characteristics. It is depicted as having fearsome teeth, a tough hide, and the ability to breathe fire or smoke. Its highly symbolic description has led to various identifications, from known marine creatures to mythical beasts.

Traditional Identifications

Crocodile: Many believe Leviathan to be a crocodile or an alligator due to its aquatic nature and predatory characteristics. Whale: Some interpretations suggest a large whale or marine reptile, highlighting its size and fearsome reputation. Mythical Creature: Others view Leviathan as a symbolic or mythical creature representing chaos and evil.

Why Alligator and Elephant

The belief that Behemoth is an elephant and Leviathan is an alligator is rooted in several factors.

Cultural Context

Ancient Near Eastern literature often used vivid and exaggerated descriptions of animals to reflect cultural understanding of nature. The characteristics attributed to Behemoth and Leviathan may have resonated with known animals of that time, making them easier to conceptualize and relate to.

Symbolism

Both the elephant and the crocodile have strong symbolic meanings in various cultures. Elephants often represent strength and power, while crocodiles are associated with danger and ferocity. These symbols might influence some readers' interpretations of the identities of these creatures.

LITERAL INTERPRETATION

Some readers might take the descriptions literally without considering the poetic and metaphorical aspects of the text, leading to associations with familiar animals like elephants and alligators.

Conclusion

The identities of Behemoth and Leviathan remain subjects of debate, with interpretations ranging from real animals to symbolic representations of chaos and power. They are not universally accepted as dinosaurs, and the connections to elephants and alligators arise from a mix of cultural, symbolic, and literal interpretations of the text.