¶ Whence then cometh wisdom? and where [is] the place of understanding?
Whence {H370} then cometh {H935} wisdom {H2451}? and where is the place {H4725} of understanding {H998}?
"So where does wisdom come from? where is the source of understanding,
From where then does wisdom come, and where does understanding dwell?
Whence then cometh wisdom? And where is the place of understanding?
Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.
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James 1:5
If 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 28:12
But where shall wisdom be found? and where [is] the place of understanding? -
Job 28:28
And unto man he said, Behold, the fear of the Lord, that [is] wisdom; and to depart from evil [is] understanding. -
James 1:17
Every 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. -
Job 28:23
God understandeth the way thereof, and he knoweth the place thereof. -
Ecclesiastes 7:23
¶ All this have I proved by wisdom: I said, I will be wise; but it [was] far from me. -
Ecclesiastes 7:24
That which is far off, and exceeding deep, who can find it out?
Context
Job 28:20 is part of a profound poetic interlude (Job 28) within the larger narrative of Job's suffering and his friends' debates. This chapter is a magnificent hymn to wisdom, contrasting humanity's incredible ingenuity in discovering and extracting earthly treasures—like gold, silver, and precious stones from the deep earth—with its utter inability to find true wisdom. The preceding verses (Job 28:12-19) emphatically state that wisdom cannot be purchased, traded, or found in any material wealth. Verse 20 serves as a rhetorical question, underscoring this central theme: if humanity can master the physical world, why can it not locate wisdom?
Meaning and Key Themes
The questions, "Whence then cometh wisdom? and where [is] the place of understanding?" are not expressions of genuine ignorance but rather rhetorical devices designed to highlight a profound truth: true wisdom does not originate from human effort, discovery, or acquisition. Despite all our exploration, technology, and intellectual prowess, the ultimate source and dwelling place of wisdom remain hidden from human eyes and endeavors. This powerful declaration sets the stage for the chapter's climactic conclusion in Job 28:28, where it is revealed that "the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom; and to depart from evil is understanding."
Linguistic Insights
The Hebrew word for "wisdom" is chokmah (חָכְמָה), which often denotes not just intellectual knowledge but also practical skill, discernment, and moral insight. The term for "understanding" is binah (בִּינָה) or tĕbunah (תְּבוּנָה), which implies the ability to discern, distinguish, and comprehend deeply, often leading to wise actions. The pairing of these terms in the rhetorical question underscores a comprehensive search for profound, life-guiding truth.
Practical Application
Job 28:20 serves as a timeless reminder of human humility in the face of divine knowledge. In our modern age, where information is abundant and technological advancements seem limitless, this verse challenges us to consider where true wisdom lies. It teaches us that while human ingenuity is impressive, ultimate wisdom and understanding come from God alone. This encourages a posture of seeking God for guidance and discernment in all areas of life, aligning with the New Testament teaching in James 1:5: "If 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." Our pursuit of knowledge should ultimately lead us to reverence for the Creator, who is the fount of all true wisdom.