Job 28:20
Whence then cometh wisdom? and where is the place of understanding?
Job 28:20 (KJV)
Context
The book of Job explores human suffering and the mystery of God’s ways. In this chapter, Job reflects on the inaccessibility of wisdom. Earlier verses describe how people mine gold, silver, and precious stones from the earth (Job 28:1-11). Job contrasts this human ability to extract earthly treasure with the far greater difficulty of finding wisdom. The question in verse 20 repeats the earlier question in Job 28:12, “But where shall wisdom be found? and where is the place of understanding?” This repetition emphasizes that wisdom is not discovered through human effort or earthly means.
Meaning
Job raises a fundamental question about the origin of wisdom. He asks where wisdom comes from and where it can be found. This question is significant because wisdom is highly valued in the biblical worldview and is often associated with understanding and living in harmony with God’s will. Job acknowledges the limitations of human beings in attaining wisdom on their own. Throughout the book, Job and his friends wrestle with why Job, a righteous man, suffers. Job recognizes that there are depths of wisdom and understanding beyond human reach. This verse highlights the profound mystery of divine wisdom.
Earlier in the chapter (Job 28:28), Job concludes, “Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom, and to depart from evil is understanding.” True wisdom begins with reverence for God. It is not merely intellectual knowledge or cleverness but involves a deep reverence and submission to God’s ways. The rhetorical question in verse 20 sets up this answer: true wisdom comes from God and is found in a reverent relationship with Him, demonstrated by turning from evil.
Biblical connections
While Job acknowledges the limitations of human wisdom, the Bible teaches that God is the ultimate source of wisdom. Proverbs 2:6 says, “For the LORD gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.” God’s wisdom is beyond human comprehension, and He reveals it to those who seek Him with humility and reverence.
In the New Testament, the apostle Paul refers to Jesus Christ as the wisdom of God (1 Corinthians 1:24). Through Jesus, God’s wisdom is made manifest to humanity. As believers in Christ, we can find true wisdom by seeking a personal relationship with Him and studying His teachings.
Application
Job’s question challenges us to reflect on the pursuit of wisdom in our own lives. Are we seeking wisdom from earthly sources alone, or are we seeking the wisdom that comes from God? True understanding and wisdom begin with a humble and reverent heart, acknowledging God as the ultimate source of wisdom.
Job 28:20 prompts us to consider the origin and nature of wisdom. While human beings may strive to gain knowledge and understanding, true wisdom ultimately comes from God. It is found in a relationship with Him and is revealed through Christ, who is the embodiment of God’s wisdom. Let us humbly seek God’s wisdom and align our lives with His will.
