Old Testament
Job 28:21
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Seeing it is hidden from the eyes of all living, and kept close from the birds of the air.
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Seeing it is hid from the eyes of all living, and kept close from the fowls of the air.
What Job 28:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Job 28:21, the verse emphasizes the elusive nature of wisdom and understanding. It suggests that true wisdom is not easily seen or grasped by anyone, including all living beings and even the birds of the air. This highlights the idea that wisdom is hidden from human perception and cannot be obtained through mere observation or experience. The verse serves as a reminder that wisdom is a divine quality, not something that can be found in the natural world or through human effort alone. It points to the mystery of wisdom, suggesting that it requires a deeper search and a connection to God to truly understand its value and significance. This passage encourages readers to seek wisdom earnestly, recognizing that it is not readily available to everyone and that it requires humility and a willingness to look beyond the surface of life.
How to apply Job 28:21 to your life
This verse encourages us to seek wisdom actively and humbly, recognizing that it is not always visible or easily attainable. We should approach life with a desire to learn and grow, understanding that true wisdom often requires deeper reflection and a connection to God.
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 28:21
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 28:21 mean?
Job 28:21 highlights that true wisdom is hidden from all living beings, including birds, emphasizing its elusive nature. It suggests that wisdom cannot be easily perceived or attained through ordinary means.
What is the meaning of wisdom in Job 28:21?
In Job 28:21, wisdom represents a divine quality that is not accessible through mere observation or experience. The verse indicates that understanding wisdom requires a deeper search and connection to God.
Why does Job 28:21 mention birds of the air?
The mention of birds in Job 28:21 symbolizes that even creatures with keen perception cannot grasp wisdom. This reinforces the idea that wisdom is beyond the reach of all living beings.
How can I apply Job 28:21 to my life?
You can apply Job 28:21 by actively seeking wisdom and approaching life with humility. Recognize that true understanding often requires deeper reflection and a connection to God.
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