What Does the Bible Say About Dinosaurs?
What Does the Bible Say About Dinosaurs? The Bible doesn't use the word 'dinosaur,' but descriptions of creatures like Behemoth (Job 40) and Leviathan (Job 41) may reference large extinct animals.
Key verse: Job 40:15-18 (KJV)
The Bible doesn't use the word 'dinosaur,' but descriptions of creatures like Behemoth (Job 40) and Leviathan (Job 41) may reference large extinct animals.
The Bible doesn't use the word 'dinosaur,' but descriptions of creatures like Behemoth (Job 40) and Leviathan (Job 41) may reference large extinct animals.
"Behold now behemoth, which I made with thee; he eateth grass as an ox. Lo now, his strength is in his loins, and his force is in the navel of his belly. He moveth his tail like a cedar: the sinews of his stones are wrapped together. His bones are as strong pieces of brass; his bones are like bars of iron." — Job 40:15-18 (KJV)
Meaning
Plain-language explanation
In Context
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The Biblical Answer
The term 'dinosaur' was coined in 1841, so it doesn't appear in Scripture. However, the Bible describes remarkable creatures that some scholars associate with dinosaurs. Job 40:15-24 describes Behemoth with a 'tail like a cedar,' bones like 'bars of iron,' and the ability to drink up a river — a description that doesn't match any known living animal. Job 41 describes Leviathan as a fearsome sea creature with impenetrable scales. Genesis 1 records God creating all land animals and sea creatures, which would include any species that has since gone extinct. While some interpret these passages as describing a hippopotamus or crocodile, others argue the descriptions far exceed any living animal. What's clear is that God created all creatures, including those now extinct, and His sovereign power over creation includes all species throughout earth's history.
Key Scripture References
"Behold now behemoth, which I made with thee; he eateth grass as an ox. Lo now, his strength is in his loins, and his force is in the navel of his belly. He moveth his tail like a cedar: the sinews of his stones are wrapped together. His bones are as strong pieces of brass; his bones are like bars of iron."
"And God created great whales, and every living creature that moveth, which the waters brought forth abundantly, after their kind."
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Related Questions
What Is the Creation Story in Genesis?
Genesis 1-2 describes God creating the universe, earth, and all life in six days, resting on the seventh — establishing His sovereignty over all things.
Is the Bible True and Reliable?
Yes — the Bible's historical accuracy, fulfilled prophecy, internal consistency, and transformative power confirm its divine reliability.
Who Wrote the Bible?
The Bible was written by approximately 40 human authors over 1,500 years, but ultimately inspired by God through the Holy Spirit.
How Many Books Are in the Bible?
The Bible contains 66 books — 39 in the Old Testament and 27 in the New Testament.
What Is the Oldest Book in the Bible?
Most scholars believe the Book of Job is the oldest book in the Bible, predating even Genesis in composition.
Deep Dive Commentary
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