Job 28:19
Topaz from Cush cannot compare to it, nor can it be valued in pure gold.
The topaz of Cush
The term "topaz" in this context refers to a precious gemstone known for its brilliance and beauty. In the ancient world, topaz was highly valued and often associated with wealth and status. The Hebrew word used here is "pitdah," which is believed to refer to a yellowish gemstone, possibly what we know today as topaz or chrysolite. "Cush" refers to a region south of Egypt, often associated with the land of Ethiopia. Historically, Cush was known for its wealth and resources, including precious stones. The mention of "the topaz of Cush" emphasizes the rarity and value of this gemstone, suggesting that even the most exquisite and rare treasures of the earth cannot compare to the wisdom being described in this chapter.

cannot compare to it
This phrase underscores the incomparable value of wisdom, which is the central theme of Job 28. The Hebrew word "shavah" means to be equal or comparable. The verse suggests that no earthly treasure, no matter how rare or valuable, can equal the worth of divine wisdom. This reflects a biblical principle found throughout Scripture, where spiritual understanding and insight are held in higher esteem than material wealth. The rhetorical nature of this statement invites readers to reflect on their own values and priorities, encouraging a pursuit of wisdom over worldly possessions.

its worth cannot be matched
The concept of "worth" here is derived from the Hebrew word "erke," which refers to value or price. The verse emphasizes that the value of wisdom is beyond any earthly measure. This aligns with the biblical teaching that true wisdom is a gift from God, and its value is eternal and immeasurable. The inability to match its worth with any material possession serves as a reminder of the transient nature of earthly wealth compared to the enduring nature of divine wisdom.

by pure gold
Gold, throughout history, has been a universal symbol of wealth and prosperity. The term "pure gold" indicates the highest quality and most refined form of this precious metal. In the ancient Near East, gold was often used in trade, jewelry, and religious artifacts, symbolizing both economic and spiritual significance. By stating that even "pure gold" cannot match the worth of wisdom, the verse elevates the pursuit of spiritual understanding above the pursuit of material riches. This reflects a consistent biblical theme that treasures in heaven are of far greater value than those on earth, encouraging believers to seek after the things of God with greater fervor than the things of this world.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Job
The central figure in the Book of Job, a man known for his righteousness and suffering. Job is the speaker in this chapter, reflecting on the nature of wisdom.

2. Cush
An ancient region often associated with the area south of Egypt, possibly modern-day Sudan or Ethiopia. Known for its wealth and resources, including precious stones like topaz.

3. Topaz
A precious gemstone mentioned in the Bible, symbolizing great value and beauty. In ancient times, topaz was highly prized and often associated with wealth.

4. Wisdom
The central theme of Job 28, where Job poetically describes the inestimable value of wisdom, which cannot be compared to earthly riches.

5. Gold
A symbol of wealth and material value, used here to contrast with the spiritual and immeasurable worth of wisdom.
Teaching Points
The Incomparable Value of Wisdom
True wisdom is more valuable than the most precious earthly treasures. It cannot be measured by material wealth.

The Source of Wisdom
Wisdom comes from God alone. Human efforts and riches cannot attain it; it is a divine gift.

Pursuing Godly Wisdom
Believers are called to seek wisdom through prayer and the study of God's Word, prioritizing it above worldly gains.

Contentment in Spiritual Riches
Understanding the value of wisdom leads to contentment, as it provides guidance and peace beyond material possessions.

Reflecting on Priorities
Evaluate personal priorities to ensure that the pursuit of wisdom and spiritual growth takes precedence over accumulating wealth.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does the description of topaz and gold in Job 28:19 help us understand the value of wisdom?

2. In what ways can we actively seek the wisdom that comes from God, as encouraged in James 1:5?

3. How do the parables in Matthew 13:44-46 relate to Job's discourse on the value of wisdom?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to prioritize spiritual wisdom over material wealth in our daily lives?

5. How can understanding the true source and value of wisdom bring contentment and peace in times of trial, as seen in Job's life?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Proverbs 3:13-15
This passage also emphasizes the incomparable value of wisdom over material wealth, similar to Job's discourse.

Matthew 13:44-46
Jesus' parables of the hidden treasure and the pearl of great price illustrate the kingdom of heaven's value, akin to the wisdom Job describes.

James 1:5
Encourages believers to seek wisdom from God, who gives generously, highlighting the divine source of true wisdom.
Praises of Divine WisdomE. Johnson Job 28:1-28
Culture and ReligionL. D. Bevan, D. D.Job 28:12-28
The Inestimable Value of True Wisdom, or ReligionDavid Roberts, D. D.Job 28:12-28
The Religious Use of WisdomDean Stanley.Job 28:12-28
The Search Alter WisdomE. M. Goulburn, D. G. L.Job 28:12-28
The Secret of WisdomCanon Scott Holland.Job 28:12-28
The Speculative Difficulties of an Inquiring Intellect Solved by the Heart of Practical PietyHomilistJob 28:12-28
People
Abaddon, Job, Ophir
Places
Ethiopia, Ophir, Uz
Topics
Balance, Best, Bought, Compare, Compared, Cush, Equal, Ethiopia, Gold, Pure, Topaz, Valued
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Job 28:12-19

     4333   gold

Job 28:12-27

     1180   God, wisdom of

Job 28:12-28

     6183   ignorance, of God

Library
December 4 Morning
Where shall wisdom be found?--JOB 28:12. 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. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering.--Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.--The only wise God.--Be not wise in thine own eyes. Ah, Lord God! behold, I cannot speak: for I am a child. But the Lord said unto me, Say not,
Anonymous—Daily Light on the Daily Path

August the Twenty-Eighth Wisdom and Understanding
"The fear of the Lord, that is wisdom." --JOB xxviii. 12-28. Mere learning will not make me wise. The path to wisdom is not necessarily through the schools. The brilliant scholar may be an arrant fool. True wisdom is found, not in mental acquisitions, but in a certain spiritual relation. The wise man is known by the pose of his soul. He is "inclined toward the Lord!" He has returned unto his rest, and he finds light and vision in the fellowship of his Lord. "To depart from evil is understanding."
John Henry Jowett—My Daily Meditation for the Circling Year

The Hidden Path
"There is a path which no fowl knoweth, and which the vulture's eye hath not seen."--Job xxviii. 7. T. P. tr., Emma Frances Bevan, 1899 One place have I in heaven above The glory of His throne-- On this dark earth, whence He is gone, I have one place alone, And if His rest in Heaven I know, I joy to find His path below, We meet to own that place alone Around the broken bread-- The dead whose life is hid with Christ Remembering Jesus dead. For us has set the earthly light, Above, the glory; here,
Frances Bevan—Hymns of Ter Steegen and Others (Second Series)

Thy Footsteps are not Known
(From a MS. of the earlier part of the 14th Century) Job xxviii O path which no eagle knoweth, No vulture's eye hath seen, Where never the lion goeth, Nor the fierce lion's track hath been; Not in the land of the living That wondrous path is known, But Death and Destruction know it, Path trodden by One alone. Path of the lonely sorrow, Path of the Lamb who died, Path from the grave to the glory-- No other path beside. Into the golden Chamber, Into the secret place, Paul by that pathway entered,
Frances Bevan—Hymns of Ter Steegen, Suso, and Others

Whether Fear is the Beginning of Wisdom
Whether Fear is the Beginning of Wisdom We proceed to the seventh article thus: 1. It seems that fear is not the beginning of wisdom. The beginning of a thing is a part of it. But fear is not a part of wisdom, since fear is in the appetitive power, whereas wisdom is in the intellectual power. Hence it seems that fear is not the beginning of wisdom. 2. Again, nothing is the beginning of itself. But it is said in Job 28:28: "Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom." Hence it seems that fear is
Aquinas—Nature and Grace

Whether Angels Know Secret Thoughts?
Objection 1: It would seem that the angels know secret thoughts. For Gregory (Moral. xviii), explaining Job 28:17: "Gold or crystal cannot equal it," says that "then," namely in the bliss of those rising from the dead, "one shall be as evident to another as he is to himself, and when once the mind of each is seen, his conscience will at the same time be penetrated." But those who rise shall be like the angels, as is stated (Mat. 22:30). Therefore an angel can see what is in another's conscience.
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica

Whether the Grace of Christ is Infinite?
Objection 1: It would seem that Christ's grace is infinite. For everything immeasurable is infinite. But the grace of Christ is immeasurable; since it is written (Jn. 3:34): "For God doth not give the Spirit by measure to His Son [*'To His Son' is lacking in the Vulgate], namely Christ." Therefore the grace of Christ is infinite. Objection 2: Further, an infinite effect betokens an infinite power which can only spring from an infinite essence. But the effect of Christ's grace is infinite, since it
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica

Whether Fear is the Beginning of Wisdom?
Objection 1: It would seem that fear is not the beginning of wisdom. For the beginning of a thing is a part thereof. But fear is not a part of wisdom, since fear is seated in the appetitive faculty, while wisdom is in the intellect. Therefore it seems that fear is not the beginning of wisdom. Objection 2: Further, nothing is the beginning of itself. "Now fear of the Lord, that is wisdom," according to Job 28:28. Therefore it seems that fear of God is not the beginning of wisdom. Objection 3: Further,
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica

Whether Clarity is Becoming to the Glorified Body?
Objection 1: It would seem that clarity is unbecoming to the glorified body. Because according to Avicenna (Natural. vi, 2), "every luminous body consists of transparent parts." But the parts of a glorified body will not be transparent, since in some of them, such as flesh and bones, earth is predominant. Therefore glorified bodies are not lightsome. Objection 2: Further, every lightsome body hides one that is behind it; wherefore one luminary behind another is eclipsed, and a flame of fire prevents
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica

Purposes of God.
In discussing this subject I shall endeavor to show, I. What I understand by the purposes of God. Purposes, in this discussion, I shall use as synonymous with design, intention. The purposes of God must be ultimate and proximate. That is, God has and must have an ultimate end. He must purpose to accomplish something by his works and providence, which he regards as a good in itself, or as valuable to himself, and to being in general. This I call his ultimate end. That God has such an end or purpose,
Charles Grandison Finney—Systematic Theology

Whether Wisdom Should be Reckoned among the Gifts of the Holy Ghost?
Objection 1: It would seem that wisdom ought not to be reckoned among the gifts of the Holy Ghost. For the gifts are more perfect than the virtues, as stated above ([2705]FS, Q[68], A[8]). Now virtue is directed to the good alone, wherefore Augustine says (De Lib. Arb. ii, 19) that "no man makes bad use of the virtues." Much more therefore are the gifts of the Holy Ghost directed to the good alone. But wisdom is directed to evil also, for it is written (James 3:15) that a certain wisdom is "earthly,
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica

"But Seek Ye First the Kingdom of God, and his Righteousness, and all These Things Shall be Added unto You. "
Matth. vi. 33.--"But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you." The perfection even of the most upright creature, speaks always some imperfection in comparison of God, who is most perfect. The heavens, the sun and moon, in respect of lower things here, how glorious do they appear, and without spot! But behold, they are not clean in God's sight! How far are the angels above us who dwell in clay! They appear to be a pure mass of light and
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning

Use to be Made of the Doctrine of Providence.
Sections. 1. Summary of the doctrine of Divine Providence. 1. It embraces the future and the past. 2. It works by means, without means, and against means. 3. Mankind, and particularly the Church, the object of special care. 4. The mode of administration usually secret, but always just. This last point more fully considered. 2. The profane denial that the world is governed by the secret counsel of God, refuted by passages of Scripture. Salutary counsel. 3. This doctrine, as to the secret counsel of
John Calvin—The Institutes of the Christian Religion

The Care of the Soul Urged as the one Thing Needful
Luke 10:42 -- "But one thing is needful." It was the amiable character of our blessed Redeemer, that "he went about doing good," this great motive, which animated all his actions, brought him to the house of his friend Lazarus, at Bethany, and directed his behavior there. Though it was a season of recess from public labor, our Lord brought the sentiments and the pious cares of a preacher of righteousness into the parlor of a friend; and there his doctrine dropped as the rain, and distilled as the
George Whitefield—Selected Sermons of George Whitefield

Christ the Mediator of the Covenant
'Jesus the Mediator of the New Covenant,' &c. Heb 12:24. Jesus Christ is the sum and quintessence of the gospel; the wonder of angels; the joy and triumph of saints. The name of Christ is sweet, it is as music in the ear, honey in the mouth, and a cordial at the heart. I shall waive the context, and only speak of that which concerns our present purpose. Having discoursed of the covenant of grace, I shall speak now of the Mediator of the covenant, and the restorer of lapsed sinners, Jesus the Mediator
Thomas Watson—A Body of Divinity

Concerning Continence Also Itself Hath it not Been Most Openly Said...
43. Concerning continence also itself hath it not been most openly said, "And when I knew that no one can be continent unless God give it, this also itself was a part of wisdom, to know whose gift it was?" [2177] But perhaps continence is the gift of God, but wisdom man bestows upon himself, whereby to understand, that that gift is, not his own, but of God. Yea, "The Lord maketh wise the blind:" [2178] and, "The testimony of the Lord is faithful, it giveth wisdom unto little ones:" [2179] and, "If
St. Augustine—Of Holy Virginity.

Book vii. On the Useful or the Ordinary
The bread is Christ or conversation of the Lord; in the gospel: I am the living bread. [John 6:41] The wine is the same as above; in Solomon: and drink this wine, which I have blended for you. [Prov. 9:5] Olive oil is mercy or the Holy Spirit; in the psalm: I have anointed him with my holy oil. The same in another part: Let not the oil of the sinner, that is, admiration, touch my head. [Ps. 88(89):21(20); Ps. 140(141):5] Pork is sin; in the psalm: they are sated with pork. [Ps. 16(17):14 (unknown
St. Eucherius of Lyons—The Formulae of St. Eucherius of Lyons

The Pilgrim's Progress
FROM THIS WORLD TO THAT WHICH IS TO COME. THE SECOND PART. DELIVERED UNDER THE SIMILITUDE OF A DREAM. WHEREIN IS SET FORTH THE MANNER OF THE SETTING OUT OF CHRISTIAN'S WIFE AND CHILDREN, THEIR DANGEROUS JOURNEY, AND SAFE ARRIVAL AT THE DESIRED COUNTRY. By JOHN BUNYAN. 'I have used similitudes.'--Hosea 12:10. London: Printed for Nathaniel Ponder, at the Peacock in the Poultry, near the Church, 1684. THE AUTHOR'S WAY OF SENDING FORTH HIS SECOND PART OF THE PILGRIM. Go now, my little book, to every
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3

Letter ix. Meditation.
"Meditate upon these things."--1 TIM. 4:15. MY DEAR SISTER: The subject of this letter is intimately connected with that of the last; and in proportion to your faithfulness in the duty now under consideration, will be your interest in the word and worship of God. Religious meditation is a serious, devout and practical thinking of divine things; a duty enjoined in Scripture, both by precept and example; and concerning which, let us observe, 1. Its importance. That God has required it, ought to
Harvey Newcomb—A Practical Directory for Young Christian Females

Job
The book of Job is one of the great masterpieces of the world's literature, if not indeed the greatest. The author was a man of superb literary genius, and of rich, daring, and original mind. The problem with which he deals is one of inexhaustible interest, and his treatment of it is everywhere characterized by a psychological insight, an intellectual courage, and a fertility and brilliance of resource which are nothing less than astonishing. Opinion has been divided as to how the book should be
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament

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