What was Dominion?
In Job 25:2, the word Dominion refers not to a person or a place but to the supreme authority and sovereign rule of God over all creation. The Hebrew word used in this passage is “מֶמְשָׁלָה” (memshalah), which translates to “rule,” “dominion,” or “sovereignty.” It conveys the concept of absolute governance and divine kingship, underscoring God‘s unrivaled power and majestic authority.
The verse reads:
“Dominion and awe belong to God; he establishes order in the heights of heaven.” (Job 25:2, NIV)
This statement is part of a brief speech by Bildad the Shuhite, one of Job’s friends. Though Bildad’s theology is incomplete and sometimes misapplied, his declaration in Job 25:2 is profoundly true and biblically consistent: dominion indeed belongs to God alone.
Biblical References and Cross-References
- Job 25:2 – “Dominion and awe belong to God.”
- 1 Chronicles 29:11-12 – “Yours, LORD, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours.”
- Psalm 103:19 – “The LORD has established his throne in heaven, and his kingdom rules over all.”
- Daniel 4:34-35 – Nebuchadnezzar acknowledges God‘s dominion: “His dominion is an eternal dominion.”
- Revelation 1:6 – Jesus Christ is described as the one to whom “glory and dominion forever and ever” belong.
These passages consistently affirm the absolute rule of God over all things in heaven and earth.
Explanation of the Passage
Job 25 is the final speech of Bildad and among the shortest in the book. In verse 2, Bildad emphasizes the majesty and authority of God. Although his tone is intended to humble Job into silence, his words reflect an important truth about divine rule: God‘s sovereignty is unchallenged and awe-inspiring.
By stating “Dominion and awe belong to God,” Bildad acknowledges that God is not merely a distant creator, but a present and active ruler who maintains cosmic order and justice. The phrase “he establishes order in the heights of heaven” reinforces the image of God as the supreme authority who governs not only the earth but also the heavenly realm.
Even though Bildad‘s motive was to suppress Job’s cries for justice, his theological assertion about God‘s dominion is biblically sound and reflects deep truth about God‘s nature.
What It Means for Today’s Christians
Understanding God’s dominion is essential for cultivating a right view of God‘s character. In a world that often appears chaotic and unjust, believers can take comfort in the truth that God reigns. His rule is not only supreme but also righteous and wise.
For Christians today, recognizing God’s dominion calls for trust, submission, and worship. When life feels out of control, Scripture reminds us that God is still enthroned, still sovereign, and still working all things according to His purpose (Romans 8:28).
How Dominion Points to Jesus and the Gospel
God’s dominion is not limited to the Old Testament. The New Testament reveals that dominion has been given to Jesus Christ, the Son of God. After His resurrection, Jesus declared:
“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” (Matthew 28:18)
Jesus is the visible image of God’s invisible rule (Colossians 1:15-18). Through His perfect life, sacrificial death, and triumphant resurrection, Jesus exercises dominion over sin, death, and Satan. He is not only Savior but King.
The gospel proclaims that Jesus reigns, and one day every knee will bow before Him (Philippians 2:9-11). Dominion belongs to Christ, and His rule brings peace, justice, and redemption to those who believe.
Broader Biblical Themes
1. The Sovereignty of God
From Genesis to Revelation, Scripture portrays God as the sovereign ruler over all creation. Dominion emphasizes His rightful authority.
2. The Kingship of Christ
The dominion of God is exercised through Christ, the King of kings, who will reign forever in righteousness.
3. The Majesty of God
“Dominion and awe” go hand in hand. True reverence for God begins with acknowledging His authority.
4. Order in Creation
God’s dominion brings order. In contrast to chaos, God’s rule brings peace, structure, and beauty to all He governs.
5. Human Humility
Recognizing divine dominion should humble mankind. As Job learned, humans cannot demand answers from God but are called to trust and worship Him.
Reflection Questions
- How does the truth that “Dominion belongs to God” shape your understanding of suffering and hardship?
- In what areas of your life do you struggle to submit to God’s authority?
- What does Jesus’ dominion mean for your daily life and priorities?
- How can recognizing God’s sovereign rule strengthen your faith during uncertain times?
- In what ways can you live more fully under the kingship of Christ today?
The truth that “Dominion and awe belong to God” is not only a statement of theology—it is a call to worship, a challenge to trust, and an invitation to rest in the authority of the God who reigns over heaven and earth.