Job 26:9

9. Holdeth back Who veileth. The word אחז , used in Nehemiah 7:3 in the sense of barring (the gate,) also signifies “hold fast,” (see Job 23:11,) or “fasten together.” 2 Chronicles 9:18. In this, the sole case of the Piel form, it is generally interpreted to mean “enshroud,” or “inclose,” although Merx understands its meaning to be that of bearing or holding up, with the idea that God miraculously holds up the throne on which he sits. But the text, it is to be remembered, speaks of “the outside,” “the face,” of the throne. It is a beautiful poetical conception that the firmament not only reflects the splendour of God, (Exodus 24:10,) but also veils his throne (literally, the face of his throne) from human eyes. Isaiah 66:1. All nature may be regarded as a veil of deity “through whose mantling folds” he deigns to show so much of his being as eye or heart can bear. Compare Amos 9:6; Psalms 104:3.