Behemoth

The Behemoth is a creature from Judeo-Christian beliefs. He is referenced in the Book of Job from the Old Testament as well as the Book of Enoch. He is described as a primordial creature of the land, alongside Leviathan and Ziz, specifically being described as the male counterpart to Leviathan. He is believed to have been one of God’s earliest creations, and as such, none could kill him except God. He was associated with the sea monster Rahab and the sea itself. Some stories say the Behemoth and Leviathan will battle at the end of the world. After both are dead, the righteous will eat the meat from Behemoth. It’s said he was separated from the Leviathan and sent to the Desert of Dendain. Other stories say Leviathan was destroyed, and Behemoth was sent to the mountains to be fattened up. Behemoth was described as having a tail like a cedar tree trunk and bones like brass or iron bars. It was compared to various creatures, resembling a hippo, sauropod, ox, elephant, and was sometimes connected to a whale or crocodile. He was described as immense in size and power. Some said it could draw the entire Jordan River into its mouth. He’s thought to live among the willows of the brooks and eat vegetation. Some say he could eat 1000 mountains every day, and the grass grows back daily. Christian interpretation often describes him as a demon and a representation of evil. Some even believe he represents the devil himself. Often, he’s described as overweight and stupid, encouraging gluttony. This form is often depicted as an elephant with a huge stomach.

Citations:

Guiley, Rosemary. The Encyclopedia of Angels. Ukraine, Facts On File, Incorporated, 2004.

Rosen, Brenda. The Mythical Creatures Bible: The Definitive Guide to Legendary Beings. Taiwan, Sterling, 2009.