Job 28:20
Whence then cometh wisdom? and where is the place of understanding?
Original Language Analysis
מֵאַ֣יִן
Whence
H370
מֵאַ֣יִן
Whence
Strong's:
H370
Word #:
2 of 7
where? (only in connection with prepositional prefix, whence)
תָּב֑וֹא
then cometh
H935
תָּב֑וֹא
then cometh
Strong's:
H935
Word #:
3 of 7
to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)
Cross References
Job 28:12But where shall wisdom be found? 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.Job 28:23God understandeth the way thereof, and he knoweth the place thereof.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.Proverbs 2:6For the LORD giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding.
Historical Context
Ancient wisdom literature sought knowledge through observation and tradition, but Job recognizes limits. True wisdom requires divine revelation.
Questions for Reflection
- What limits do you encounter in seeking wisdom through human means?
- How does recognizing wisdom's hiddenness prepare you to receive revelation?
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Analysis & Commentary
Job repeats: 'Whence then cometh wisdom? and where is the place of understanding, seeing it is hid from the eyes of all living?' The repetition (from v. 12) emphasizes wisdom's hiddenness from all creatures. No earthly investigation can discover ultimate understanding.