Unveiling Divine Wisdom: A Coptic Orthodox Commentary on Job 28

Executive Summary

Job 28 stands as a magnificent hymn to the incomprehensible value of true wisdom, a wisdom far exceeding the worth of earthly treasures. The chapter embarks on a profound exploration of man’s ingenuity in uncovering precious metals and gems hidden deep within the earth. This serves as a stark contrast to his inability to discover the source of divine wisdom, which is ultimately found in fearing God and departing from evil. This commentary, deeply rooted in Coptic Orthodox tradition, delves into the spiritual significance of this chapter, drawing upon Patristic insights and exploring its relevance to our modern lives. Understanding that Divine Wisdom is not merely intellectual prowess but a profound spiritual insight granted by God, is key to navigating the complexities of the world. The chapter is a reminder that true wisdom is not a commodity to be mined but a gift to be received through faith and obedience. This exploration reinforces the Coptic Orthodox understanding of wisdom as Christ himself.

Introduction

Job 28 offers a powerful discourse on the nature of wisdom. It begins by highlighting humanity’s remarkable ability to uncover the hidden riches of the earth, from silver and gold to precious stones. However, it sharply contrasts this with humanity’s inherent inability to independently attain true wisdom, revealing that Divine Wisdom is a gift from God, accessible only through reverence and obedience. The chapter serves as a profound meditation on the limitations of human intellect and the necessity of divine revelation.

Commentary on Job 28:1-2

Job 28:1-2 (KJV): Surely there is a vein for the silver, and a place for gold where they fine it. Iron is taken out of the earth, and brass is molten out of the stone.

Job 28:1-2 (NKJV): Surely there is a mine for silver, And a place where gold is refined. Iron is taken from the earth, And copper is smelted from ore.

This opening sets the stage by showcasing humanity’s industrious nature. The earth, seemingly barren on the surface, yields its treasures to those who seek them diligently. The “vein for the silver” and “place for gold” speak of deliberate effort and skill. Consider the ancient mines of Timna in present-day Israel, dating back to the time of the Judges, which provide archaeological evidence of such mining activities. Spiritually, these verses can be interpreted as an allegory for the pursuit of worldly knowledge and wealth. While not inherently evil, these pursuits should never overshadow the quest for Divine Wisdom. As St. Athanasius says: “Οὐ γὰρ ἄνευ πόνου καὶ ἀγωνίας τὴν βασιλείαν τῶν οὐρανῶν κληρονομήσομεν.” (Ou gar aneu ponou kai agonias tēn basileian tōn ouranōn klēronomēsomen – “For not without toil and struggle shall we inherit the Kingdom of Heaven.”) (Vita Antonii 52.11). Just as physical treasures require labor, so too does spiritual growth.

Spiritual Application: Reflect on the energy you dedicate to worldly pursuits. Are you investing equal or greater effort in seeking God’s wisdom and understanding? Strive for balance, remembering that earthly treasures are fleeting, but Divine Wisdom endures forever.

Commentary on Job 28:3-4

Job 28:3-4 (KJV): He setteth an end to darkness, and searcheth out all perfection: the stones of darkness, and the shadow of death. The flood breaketh out from the inhabitant; even the waters forgotten of the foot: they are dried up, they are gone away from men.

Job 28:3-4 (NKJV): Man puts an end to darkness, And searches out every perfection. The ore of gloom and the shadow of death. A shaft is sunk far from a dwelling place; Forgotten by the foot; They hang suspended, away from men.

These verses emphasize the extent of human ingenuity and persistence. “He setteth an end to darkness” speaks of the lamps and torches used in mining, pushing back the natural darkness to uncover hidden resources. “The stones of darkness, and the shadow of death” vividly portray the perilous conditions within mines. This also alludes to the effort of uncovering “every perfection” in earthly knowledge. There is a sense of overcoming the natural order for human benefit. It’s important to remember that even this incredible effort is not enough to unlock the secrets to true wisdom. As the book of Wisdom in the Old Testament states, “For she is a breath of the power of God, and a pure emanation of the glory of the Almighty” (Wisdom 7:25).

Spiritual Application: Acknowledge and appreciate the gifts and talents God has given you, but use them with humility and discernment. Remember that even our greatest achievements are insignificant compared to the infinite wisdom of God. Use your talents to create a website that glorifies God!

Commentary on Job 28:5-6

Job 28:5-6 (KJV): As for the earth, out of it cometh bread: and under it is turned up as it were fire. The stones of it are the place of sapphires: and it hath dust of gold.

Job 28:5-6 (NKJV): As for the earth, from it comes bread, But underneath it is turned up as fire; Its stones are the source of sapphires, And it contains gold dust.

These verses contrast the surface and the depths of the earth. The surface provides sustenance (“bread”), while the depths hold treasures (“sapphires” and “gold dust”). “Turned up as it were fire” refers to the intense heat used in smelting, revealing the transformative power of human technology. The earth provides for both our basic needs and our desires for luxury. However, these physical treasures, however valuable, pale in comparison to the true riches of wisdom. St. Cyril of Alexandria notes: “Οὐ γὰρ ἡ σοφία τῶν ἀνθρώπων ἐστὶν, ἀλλὰ δῶρον τοῦ Θεοῦ.” (Ou gar hē sophia tōn anthrōpōn estin, alla dōron tou Theou – “For wisdom is not of men, but a gift of God.”) (Commentary on John, Book 1, Chapter 9). The earthly is easily attained, whereas the divine requires a different kind of effort.

Spiritual Application: Don’t be deceived by the allure of worldly possessions. Remember that true wealth lies in a relationship with God and in living according to His wisdom. Strive to cultivate spiritual riches that will last for eternity. Treasure your connection with Christ above all earthly things.

Commentary on Job 28:7-11

Job 28:7-11 (KJV): There is a path which no fowl knoweth, and which the vulture’s eye hath not seen: The lion’s whelps have not trodden it, nor the fierce lion passed by it. He putteth forth his hand upon the rock; he overturneth the mountains by the roots. He cutteth out rivers among the rocks; and his eye seeth every precious thing. He bindeth the floods from overflowing; and the thing that is hid bringeth he forth to light.

Job 28:7-11 (NKJV): There is a path which no bird knows, Nor has the falcon’s eye seen it. The proud lion has not trodden it, Nor has the fierce lion passed over it. He puts his hand on the flint; He overturns the mountains at the roots. He cuts out rivers in the rocks, And his eye sees every precious thing. He dams up the streams from trickling; What is hidden he brings forth to light.

These verses highlight the inaccessibility of mining routes to even the keenest eyes of nature. The “path which no fowl knoweth” emphasizes the specialized knowledge and skills required for mining. This underscores the exceptional nature of human intellect. “He overturneth the mountains by the roots” and “He cutteth out rivers among the rocks” showcase humanity’s ability to alter the landscape. These verses, however, prepare the reader for the central theme of the chapter: that despite such impressive feats, humanity cannot discover the path to true wisdom on its own. We see this ability to alter the natural landscape as indicative of the gifts God has given humanity, and how we can choose to use them. This should point us to the importance of seeking Divine Wisdom.

Spiritual Application: Recognize the limits of human understanding. While knowledge and skill are valuable, they are insufficient for navigating the complexities of life and discerning God’s will. Seek God’s guidance and rely on His wisdom, not just your own intelligence.

Commentary on Job 28:12-14

Job 28:12-14 (KJV): But where shall wisdom be found? and where is the place of understanding? Man knoweth not the price thereof; neither is it found in the land of the living. The depth saith, It is not in me: and the sea saith, It is not with me.

Job 28:12-14 (NKJV): But where can wisdom be found? And where is the place of understanding? Man does not know its value, Nor can it be found in the land of the living. The deep says, ‘It is not in me’; And the sea says, ‘It is not with me.’

Here is the crux of the chapter. After extolling human ingenuity, the text poses the crucial question: “But where shall wisdom be found?” This is not a rhetorical question but a profound inquiry into the nature and source of true wisdom. It emphasizes the limitations of human searching. “Man knoweth not the price thereof” indicates that wisdom cannot be purchased or earned through earthly means. The depth and the sea represent the vastness of the natural world, yet they deny possessing wisdom. This highlights the fact that true wisdom transcends the material realm. We must seek it from God, and not ourselves. This is indicative of the Coptic Orthodox tradition, in which we look to the church for answers, because of its direct link to Christ.

Spiritual Application: Acknowledge your need for God’s wisdom. Do not rely solely on your own intellect or the wisdom of the world. Turn to God in prayer and seek guidance from Scripture, the Church Fathers, and the teachings of the Church. Understand the true value of Divine Wisdom.

Commentary on Job 28:15-19

Job 28:15-19 (KJV): It cannot be gotten for gold, neither shall silver be weighed for the price thereof. It cannot be valued with the gold of Ophir, with the precious onyx, or the sapphire. The gold and the crystal cannot equal it: and the exchange of it shall not be for jewels of fine gold. No mention shall be made of coral, or of pearls: for the price of wisdom is above rubies. The topaz of Ethiopia shall not equal it, neither shall it be valued with pure gold.

Job 28:15-19 (NKJV): It cannot be purchased for gold, Nor can silver be weighed for its price. It cannot be valued in terms of gold from Ophir, With precious onyx or sapphire. Neither gold nor crystal can equal it, Nor can it be exchanged for jewelry of fine gold. No mention shall be made of coral or pearl, For the price of wisdom is above rubies. The topaz of Ethiopia cannot equal it, Nor can it be valued in terms of pure gold.

These verses emphasize the incomparable value of wisdom. Gold, silver, onyx, sapphires, crystal, coral, pearls, rubies, and topaz – all the earth’s most prized possessions – are declared worthless in comparison to true wisdom. The repetition of “cannot” and “neither” underscores the impossibility of acquiring wisdom through material means. These are the things humanity values most, but none can compare to what God offers us. As St. Paul writes, “But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, the hidden wisdom which God ordained before the ages for our glory” (1 Corinthians 2:7). This is a reflection of the Divine Wisdom that we can seek.

Spiritual Application: Resist the temptation to equate material wealth with true value. Focus on cultivating spiritual qualities such as love, compassion, humility, and wisdom. These are the true treasures that endure for eternity. Recognize that true wealth is found in Christ.

Commentary on Job 28:20-22

Job 28:20-22 (KJV): Whence then cometh wisdom? and where is the place of understanding? Seeing it is hid from the eyes of all living, and kept close from the fowls of the air. Destruction and death say, We have heard the fame thereof with our ears.

Job 28:20-22 (NKJV): From where then does wisdom come? And where is the place of understanding? It is hidden from the eyes of all living, And concealed from the birds of the air. Destruction and Death say, ‘We have heard a report about it with our ears.’

These verses reiterate the elusiveness of wisdom. “Whence then cometh wisdom?” is a direct challenge to those who believe wisdom can be attained through human effort alone. “It is hid from the eyes of all living” and “concealed from the birds of the air” emphasize the inaccessibility of wisdom to natural observation and intellectual pursuit. Even “Destruction and Death” only hear rumors of it, indicating that wisdom transcends even the most profound experiences of life. This is a reminder that wisdom is not simply knowledge. Even death cannot reveal this. This is something revealed by God.

Spiritual Application: Acknowledge that true wisdom is beyond human comprehension. Approach the quest for wisdom with humility, recognizing that it is a gift to be received from God, not a prize to be won through human effort. The Coptic Orthodox church helps to bridge the gap between humanity and Christ, the source of all wisdom.

Commentary on Job 28:23-27

Job 28:23-27 (KJV): God understandeth the way thereof, and he knoweth the place thereof. For he looketh to the ends of the earth, and seeth under the whole heaven; To make the weight for the winds; and he weigheth the waters by measure. When he made a decree for the rain, and a way for the lightning of the thunder: Then did he see it, and declare it; he prepared it, yea, and searched it out.

Job 28:23-27 (NKJV): God understands its way, And He knows its place. For He looks to the ends of the earth, And sees under the whole heavens, To establish a weight for the wind, And mete out the waters by measure. When He made a law for the rain, And a path for the thunderbolt, Then He saw wisdom and declared it; He prepared it, indeed, He searched it out.

This section reveals the source of wisdom: God Himself. “God understandeth the way thereof, and he knoweth the place thereof” declares that wisdom is inherent in God’s being and His understanding of the universe. The description of God’s creation – “He looketh to the ends of the earth,” “To establish a weight for the wind,” “mete out the waters by measure,” “made a law for the rain,” “a path for the thunderbolt” – demonstrates His perfect wisdom and order in creation. Wisdom is not separate from God but is integral to His nature and His creative acts. Therefore, seeking wisdom is seeking God. And with a relationship with God, the possibility of knowing Divine Wisdom becomes much greater.

Spiritual Application: Recognize that God is the ultimate source of wisdom. Seek Him in prayer, Scripture, and the sacraments, trusting that He will reveal His wisdom to those who seek Him with a sincere heart. Align your life with God’s will and strive to live according to His divine wisdom.

Commentary on Job 28:28

Job 28:28 (KJV): And unto man he said, Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom; and to depart from evil is understanding.

Job 28:28 (NKJV): To man He said, ‘Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom, And to depart from evil is understanding.’

This is the culmination of the chapter: the definition of true wisdom. “The fear of the Lord, that is wisdom; and to depart from evil is understanding.” The “fear of the Lord” is not mere terror but a profound reverence and awe of God, acknowledging His holiness and power. It is the foundation of all true wisdom and the beginning of spiritual understanding. “To depart from evil” is the practical outworking of this reverence, demonstrating a commitment to living a righteous life. Wisdom is not merely intellectual assent but a transformation of the heart and a change in behavior. True wisdom is living in accordance with God’s will. This is the Coptic Orthodox interpretation, where we seek to live according to God.

Spiritual Application: Cultivate a deep reverence for God in your life. Strive to live a life of righteousness, avoiding evil and embracing good. Let your fear of the Lord guide your decisions and actions. Truly understand that Divine Wisdom is found in Him, and you will live accordingly.

The Fear of the Lord: Foundation of Wisdom

The “fear of the Lord” isn’t terror but reverence, the starting point for true wisdom. It encompasses:

• Humility: Recognizing our limitations and dependence on God.
• Obedience: Willingness to follow God’s commandments.
• Reverence: Awe and respect for God’s holiness.
• Repentance: Turning away from sin and seeking forgiveness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) ❓

Q: What does it mean to “fear the Lord”?
A: “Fearing the Lord” is not about being scared of God, but about having a deep reverence and respect for His power, holiness, and justice. It’s acknowledging His rightful place in our lives and striving to live according to His will. The “fear of the Lord” is a motivator to avoid sin and pursue righteousness.

Q: How can I acquire true wisdom?
A: True wisdom is not earned or bought, but received as a gift from God. We acquire it by cultivating a relationship with Him through prayer, studying Scripture, and participating in the sacraments. We need to live our lives according to God and seek Divine Wisdom.

Q: What is the difference between knowledge and wisdom?
A: Knowledge is the accumulation of facts and information, while wisdom is the ability to apply knowledge with discernment and understanding. Wisdom involves making right choices and living a life that is pleasing to God. Wisdom is practical knowledge informed by reverence for God.

Conclusion

Job 28 offers a powerful message about the nature and source of true wisdom. It reminds us that despite our human ingenuity and intellectual capabilities, we cannot discover wisdom on our own. Wisdom is a gift from God, accessible only through reverence, obedience, and a sincere desire to live according to His will. Divine Wisdom, therefore, is not merely a concept but a transformative force that shapes our character and guides our actions. As Coptic Orthodox Christians, we must strive to cultivate a “fear of the Lord” and depart from evil, thereby embracing the true wisdom that leads to eternal life. The chapter ultimately directs us to Christ, the embodiment of Divine Wisdom, and to a life lived in accordance with His teachings.

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Job 28, Wisdom, Fear of the Lord, Coptic Orthodox, Theology, Bible Commentary, Understanding, Divine Wisdom, Spiritual Growth, Ancient Wisdom

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Explore Job 28’s profound message on true wisdom, a gift from God found in reverence and obedience. A Coptic Orthodox perspective on **Divine Wisdom**.