איוב, פרק מ׳, פסוק ט״ז

The massive physical might of this beast lies entirely in its sturdy frame rather than in any external weapons. Because it is a grass-eating animal and not a predator, its immense strength is not found in claws, sharp teeth, or venom, but is instead concentrated deeply within its own body [מלבי״ם]. Even though it does not hunt or engage in violent acts, it possesses a profound, essential power stored inside [מצודת דוד].

The varying descriptions of this might are generally understood as a repetition used to emphasize the creature's sheer force [מצודת דוד, אבן עזרא, רלב״ג]. However, a more nuanced view suggests a division between the beast's hidden, potential energy and the active, outward display of that power [מלבי״ם]. Physically, this strength is centered in the core of its body. The primary approach among commentators locates this center of power in the navel area [רש״י, מצודת ציון, רלב״ג, אבן עזרא, מלבי״ם], while others understand it simply as the abdominal muscles [ביאור שטיינזלץ].

Beyond sheer physical muscle, this concentrated energy also represents the creature's extraordinary reproductive capabilities. Its power encompasses both the male capacity to reproduce and the female ability to carry offspring in the womb. This fertility is so overwhelming that if the creature were allowed to multiply without restriction, it would bring ruin to the world [אלשיך]. To prevent such destruction and restrain its reproductive power, the male's reproductive organs are crushed and hidden within its body rather than being completely severed [רש״י].