איוב, פרק מ״א, פסוק ו׳

The immense power of the Leviathan is vividly displayed through the physical terror it inspires, particularly the sheer impossibility of approaching its face. The creature's facial structure is compared to sturdy doors, though commentators offer different perspectives on exactly which part of the face this represents. Many explain that these are the creature's lips, which function just like heavy doors that open and close [רש״י, מצודת דוד, מלבי״ם]. Others expand this image to include the cheeks [רמב״ן, מלבי״ם], while a more general approach simply views this as a description of the entire mouth [אבן עזרא, ביאור שטיינזלץ].

Confronting this creature leaves a person entirely helpless. Once the Leviathan shuts its jaws, no human force can pry them apart [רש״י, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. This absolute resistance highlights the impossibility of taming the beast. Unlike a horse, which can be forced to open its mouth to accept a bridle, the Leviathan cannot be controlled or broken by any human effort [מצודת דוד].

The primary reason no one can even attempt to force the creature's mouth open is the overwhelming dread that surrounds its teeth [מלבי״ם]. A mere glimpse of its teeth strikes immense fear into anyone nearby [רמב״ן, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Because of the intense terror radiating from its jaws, no living being dares to step anywhere near the creature [רש״י, מצודת דוד].