איוב, פרק מ׳, פסוק י״ז

The immense physical power of this mighty beast is evident not only in the sheer size of its limbs but in their flexibility, strength, and explosive vitality. The focus centers on its loins, presenting a vivid picture of bursting reproductive energy. When detailing the movement of its massive appendage, the primary approach among commentators is that the beast swings its enormous tail with incredible speed and ease [מצודת דוד, מצודת ציון, רלב״ג, רמב״ן, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Others suggest it moves its tail in whichever direction it desires, effortlessly carrying the heavy weight [תקות אנוש, רמב״ן]. In contrast, some understand the action as a stiffening, where the tail becomes rigid and hard like wood [רש״י, אבן עזרא], with [אבן עזרא] entirely rejecting any connection to the beast's will or desire. Another view proposes that the motion is a bending action [רמב״ן]. Taking a different path, [מלבי״ם] suggests the description portrays an awakening of physical lust, using the tail as a polite term for the beast's reproductive organ.

Whether referring to a literal tail or another organ, it is thick, massive, and mighty like a cedar tree, yet despite its grand size, it sways easily in the wind [מצודת דוד, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. The commentators unanimously agree that the surrounding anatomy refers to the beast's testicles [רש״י, מצודת ציון, רמב״ן, אבן עזרא, מלבי״ם]. The sinews of these organs are described as deeply intertwined, branching out and tangling together. They are thick and prominent, resembling braided cords or the complex branches of a tree [רש״י, מצודת דוד, רלב״ג, אבן עזרא, ביאור שטיינזלץ].

This graphic description of the reproductive organs and their intertwined sinews serves to reveal the core nature of the beast. It is not a cold, sluggish creature, but an animal filled with intense internal heat and vitality. Its extraordinary strength is ultimately expressed through its dynamic and powerful ability to bring forth new life [אלשיך].