Understanding Job 28:20

Job 28:20 reads: "Whence then cometh wisdom? and where is the place of understanding?" This verse stands as a profound inquiry into the nature and origin of wisdom and understanding, expressing Job's deep desire to comprehend the enigmatic processes of life.

Contextual Overview

In the surrounding chapters of the Book of Job, wisdom is portrayed as something precious and elusive, far removed from earthly pursuits. Job, after enduring tremendous suffering, turns his attention to the ultimate quest of understanding the ways of God.

Commentary Insights

Insights from various public domain commentaries provide a deeper understanding of this verse:

• Matthew Henry: He emphasizes that true wisdom cannot be sourced from human intellect or earthly wealth. Instead, it is a divine quality that requires humility and recognition of one's limitations. Henry notes how Job's inquiry leads the reader toward the understanding that wisdom is found in revering God.
• Albert Barnes: Barnes draws attention to the rhetorical nature of Job's question, highlighting that it serves to illustrate humanity's inability to grasp divine wisdom. He proposes that wisdom is a divine gift that transcends human ability to discern its origin.
• Adam Clarke: Clarke points out that this verse encapsulates a universal question grappling with the existence of wisdom. He characterizes it as a reminder that wisdom is often hidden and challenges believers to seek it earnestly. Clarke also notes biblical parallels that connect this theme with the attributes of God and the fear of the Lord.

Cross-References and Thematic Connections

Job 28:20 can be intricately connected to several other scripture passages that echo similar themes regarding wisdom and understanding:

• Proverbs 2:6: "For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding." This connectively emphasizes the idea that wisdom originates from God alone.
• Proverbs 3:13: "Blessed is the one who finds wisdom, and the one who gets understanding." Here, the search for wisdom is paralleled with blessings, reiterating the importance of seeking it.
• Job 12:13: "With God are wisdom and might; He has counsel and understanding." This illustrates that genuine wisdom is integral to God’s character.
• Psalms 111:10: "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all those who practice it have a good understanding." This verse emphasizes that the reverence for God is foundational to attaining wisdom.
• James 1:5: "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him." This New Testament connection encourages believers to seek divine wisdom through prayer.
• 1 Corinthians 1:25: "For the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men." This presents a New Testament perspective on the comparison between divine wisdom and human intellect.
• Ecclesiastes 2:13: "And I saw that wisdom excels folly as light excels darkness." This reinforces the superiority of wisdom, inviting contemplation on its true worth.
• Proverbs 4:7: "Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding." It accentuates the urgency in seeking wisdom.
• Proverbs 16:16: "How much better to get wisdom than gold! To get understanding is to be chosen rather than silver." Here, the juxtaposition of wisdom against material wealth reinforces its ultimate value.

The Importance of Seeking Wisdom

This theological exploration of Job 28:20 reveals critical truths about wisdom that resonate through scripture:

• Divine Origin: The understanding that true wisdom emanates from God invites believers to seek it through prayer and reverence.
• Human Limitation: Recognizing our finite understanding encourages a humble approach to life and faith.
• Connection to the Fear of the Lord: Emphasizing the necessity of revering God as the foundation of wisdom directs our focus on spiritual maturity.

Conclusion

In summary, Job 28:20 serves as a poignant reminder of the profound nature of wisdom and understanding. By examining the insights from eminent biblical scholars and cross-referencing related scriptures, we can gain a richer, more contextual understanding of this query. As believers and seekers of truth, we are invited to pursue wisdom with earnestness, relying on God as the ultimate source.