Old Testament
Job 28:13
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Man does not know the price of it; neither is it found in the land of the living.
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Man knoweth not the price thereof; neither is it found in the land of the living.
What Job 28:13 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Job 28:13, the verse emphasizes that true wisdom and understanding are beyond human grasp. It suggests that no matter how much we search or inquire, we cannot fully comprehend the value of wisdom, nor can we find it in our everyday lives. This reflects the idea that wisdom is not a material possession or something that can be easily acquired. Instead, it is a profound quality that requires deep insight and often comes from a relationship with God. The verse highlights the limitations of human knowledge and the need for divine revelation to truly understand the complexities of life and existence. It serves as a reminder that while we may seek knowledge and understanding, there are aspects of life that remain mysterious and are not accessible through human effort alone.
How to apply Job 28:13 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize the limits of our understanding and to seek wisdom from God rather than relying solely on our own knowledge. It reminds us to be humble in our pursuit of truth and to value spiritual insight over worldly knowledge.
Curated for this public verse page. Job Summary
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Illustrated scene from Job's story: Job Holds Fast His Integrity (Job 27:1–31:40)
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Job
Photo: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Samantha R. Ciaramitaro, via DVIDS and Wikimedia Commons. License: Public domain in the United States — U.S. federal-government work. Source. Location: Great Ziggurat, Ur Archaeological City (Tell el-Mukayyar), Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq. Resized for the web.
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Ur
The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
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Keep studying Job 28:13
Related Bible verses
Key themes
At a Glance — the Book of Job
- Author
- Author unknown; events likely in the patriarchal era
- Written
- Date debated
- Genre
- Wisdom literature
- Original Audience
- All who suffer or question God
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Job 28:13 teach about wisdom?
Job 28:13 teaches that true wisdom is beyond human understanding and cannot be quantified or easily found in our daily lives. It emphasizes that wisdom is a profound quality that requires deep insight and often comes from a relationship with God, rather than being a mere intellectual pursuit.
How can I apply Job 28:13 in my life?
You can apply Job 28:13 by recognizing the limitations of your own understanding and actively seeking wisdom through prayer and reflection. Instead of relying solely on your knowledge, cultivate a humble attitude and look for spiritual insights that can guide your decisions and understanding of life's complexities.
What does 'the land of the living' mean in Job 28:13?
In Job 28:13, 'the land of the living' refers to the earthly realm where people exist and pursue knowledge. The verse suggests that true wisdom is not found in this earthly existence, highlighting the need for divine revelation and understanding that transcends human experience.
Why is wisdom considered more valuable than material possessions?
Wisdom is considered more valuable than material possessions because it provides insight, guidance, and understanding that can lead to a fulfilling and meaningful life. Unlike material wealth, which is temporary and can be lost, wisdom enriches our lives and helps us navigate challenges with discernment and clarity.
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