The term "snuffeth" is an archaic English word that appears in the King James Version of the Bible, specifically in the book of Job. In modern translations, including the Berean Standard Bible , this term is often rendered with more contemporary language. The word "snuffeth" is derived from the Hebrew root that conveys the action of inhaling or exhaling forcefully, often associated with the behavior of animals.

Biblical Context

The primary reference to "snuffeth" is found in Job 39:20. In this passage, God is speaking to Job, highlighting the majesty and power of His creation, particularly focusing on the horse. The verse in the Berean Standard Bible reads:

"Do you make him leap like a locust, striking terror with his proud snorting?"

Here, "snorting" is the modern equivalent of "snuffeth," describing the powerful and intimidating sound made by a horse. This imagery is part of a larger discourse where God challenges Job's understanding of the natural world, emphasizing the strength and untamed nature of the horse, which is beyond human control.

Theological Significance

The use of "snuffeth" in this context underscores the theme of divine sovereignty and the limitations of human understanding. By illustrating the horse's might and spirited nature, God is reminding Job of His own unmatched power and wisdom in creation. The horse, with its fierce snorting, serves as a symbol of strength and freedom, attributes that are ultimately under God's dominion.

Cultural and Historical Insights

In ancient Near Eastern cultures, the horse was a symbol of war and power. Its depiction in Job 39 aligns with this cultural understanding, as the horse's snorting is associated with readiness for battle and an indomitable spirit. The imagery would have resonated with Job and his contemporaries, who were familiar with the significance of horses in warfare and royal processions.

Linguistic Notes

The Hebrew word translated as "snuffeth" or "snorting" is "נָהַק" (nahak), which conveys the idea of a forceful breath or sound. This term is used to evoke the vivid and dynamic presence of the horse, contributing to the overall message of God's discourse with Job.

Application for Believers

For contemporary readers, the passage serves as a reminder of God's creative power and the awe-inspiring nature of His works. It encourages believers to trust in God's wisdom and to recognize their own limitations in understanding the complexities of His creation. The imagery of the horse's snorting invites reflection on the majesty and order inherent in the natural world, pointing to the Creator's hand in all things.

The Swift Decay of Love
... Joshua's soldierly ear interprets the shouts which are borne up to them as war-cries;
'He snuffeth the battle afar off, and saith Aha!' But Moses knew that ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture k/the swift decay of love.htm

Bit and Bridle: How to Escape Them
... We are by nature as the wild ass that snuffeth up the wind of the wilderness: "he
scorneth the multitude of the city, neither regardeth he the crying of the ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 37 1891/bit and bridle how to.htm

Snuffeth (1 Occurrence)
...Snuffeth (1 Occurrence). Jeremiah 2:24 A wild ass used to the wilderness, that snuffeth
up the wind at her pleasure; in her occasion who can turn her away? ...
/s/snuffeth.htm - 6k

Snuffers (8 Occurrences)

/s/snuffers.htm - 11k

Ardour (3 Occurrences)
... (DBY). Jeremiah 2:24 a wild ass, used to the wilderness, that snuffeth up the
wind in her desire! In her ardour, who shall turn her away? ...
/a/ardour.htm - 7k

Snuffs (1 Occurrence)

/s/snuffs.htm - 6k

Hinder (47 Occurrences)
... Jeremiah 2:24 a wild ass used to the wilderness, that snuffeth up the wind
in her desire; in her occasion who can turn her away? ...
/h/hinder.htm - 21k

Lust (42 Occurrences)
... (See RSV NIV). Jeremiah 2:24 a wild ass used to the wilderness, that snuffeth up
the wind in her desire; in her occasion who can turn her away? ...
/l/lust.htm - 24k

Ass (95 Occurrences)
... Jeremiah 2:24 A wild ass used to the wilderness, that snuffeth up the wind
at her pleasure; in her occasion who can turn her away? ...
/a/ass.htm - 48k

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus