Charles Ellicott Commentary Job 40:19

"He is the chief of the ways of God: He [only] that made him giveth him his sword." — Job 40:19 (ASV)

He is the chief of the ways of God. — This is surely more applicable to the elephant than the hippopotamus, considering the great intelligence and usefulness of the elephant.

The last clause is very obscure. Some render, “Only He who made him can bring his sword near to him;” or, “He who made him has furnished him with his sword.” Others, “He who would dress him (as meat) let him come near him with his sword!” indicating the inequality of the contest.

Perhaps a combination of the first and last is best—“Let his Maker (but no one else venture to) approach him with His sword.”