Job 28:12
But where shall wisdom be found? and where is the place of understanding?
Original Language Analysis
מֵאַ֣יִן
But where
H370
מֵאַ֣יִן
But where
Strong's:
H370
Word #:
2 of 7
where? (only in connection with prepositional prefix, whence)
תִּמָּצֵ֑א
be found
H4672
תִּמָּצֵ֑א
be found
Strong's:
H4672
Word #:
3 of 7
properly, to come forth to, i.e., appear or exist; transitively, to attain, i.e., find or acquire; figuratively, to occur, meet or be present
Cross References
Job 28:20Whence then cometh wisdom? and where is the place of understanding?James 1:5If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.Proverbs 3:19The LORD by wisdom hath founded the earth; by understanding hath he established the heavens.Colossians 2:3In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.Job 28:28And unto man he said, Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom; and to depart from evil is understanding.James 1:17Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.
Historical Context
Ancient mining technology was sophisticated, yet Job observes that finding precious metals is easier than finding wisdom. The chapter contrasts earthly and heavenly treasures.
Questions for Reflection
- Where do you seek wisdom when human knowledge proves insufficient?
- How does the hiddenness of wisdom humble human achievement?
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Analysis & Commentary
Job's rhetorical question: 'But where shall wisdom be found? and where is the place of understanding?' This acknowledges that wisdom's location remains mysterious despite human technological achievement (mining, etc.). True wisdom transcends human discovery.