Commentary on Job 28:6

Verse Reference: Job 28:6

This verse reads: "The stones of it are the place of sapphires: and it hath dust of gold." Here, Job reflects on the hidden wisdom and the immense worth of understanding, depicting it in terms of precious stones and metals.

Introduction

Job 28 serves as a pivotal chapter in the Book of Job, focusing on the nature and value of wisdom. Job contrasts earthly treasures with the divine wisdom that eludes mankind. This commentary draws insights from renowned public domain commentaries, providing a rich exploration of the text.

The Context of Job 28

Job's Discourse on Wisdom:

This chapter follows a series of debates between Job and his friends, culminating in a reflection on the ultimate unknowability of God's wisdom compared to human understanding.

Insights from Commentaries

Matthew Henry's Commentary

Wisdom's Inaccessibility: Henry asserts that wisdom is not readily accessible to humanity. The metaphor of precious stones emphasizes that, although people search for wisdom as they would search for buried treasure, its true value lies beyond human reach.

The Natural World: He notes that nature itself gives hints of God's wisdom, yet the profound understanding necessary to grasp the divine plan often escapes even the wisest of men.

Albert Barnes' Notes on the Bible

Symbolism of Sapphire: Barnes elaborates on the significance of sapphire, a stone associated with beauty and value. This suggests that wisdom is not only precious but also beautiful in its nature and impact.

Gold Dust: The phrase "dust of gold" symbolizes the rarity and splendor of wisdom. While gold represents wealth, the 'dust' indicates that even the smallest trace of wisdom is more valuable than the richest earth can offer.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Comparison with Earthly Riches: Clarke emphasizes the contrast between earthly riches and spiritual wisdom. He argues that while one may possess all the earthly treasures, without wisdom, they have nothing of real value.

Divine Revelation: Clarke highlights that true wisdom is revealed only through divine intervention, emphasizing the necessity of spiritual revelation in understanding God’s mysteries.

Theological Reflections

This verse prompts significant theological reflection on the nature of wisdom:

• The Value of Wisdom: Just as sapphires and gold hold value in society, so does wisdom hold eternal value for believers.
• Human Limitations: It highlights the limitations of human understanding and the need for divine revelation to comprehend God’s plans.
• Eternal Perspective: The imagery invites reflection on our priorities; are we pursuing worldly wealth or the eternal wisdom of God?

Practical Applications for Today

Pastors and theologians can draw several practical implications from this verse:

• Encouragement to Seek Wisdom: Encourage congregations to seek wisdom through prayer, scripture study, and reflection rather than material wealth.
• Teach on Divine Revelation: Emphasize the importance of relying on the Holy Spirit for understanding the mysteries of God.
• Contrast to Materialism: Pastors can use this passage to challenge the materialistic culture by highlighting the supremacy of spiritual riches.

Conclusion

Job 28:6 serves as a profound reminder of the intrinsic value of wisdom. Commenting on this verse allows for a deep exploration of the nature of wisdom as depicted in sacred scripture. As noted by historical theologians, wisdom is both precious and necessary, overshadowing all earthly riches.