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Job 28:17

Made Simple — Modern English Translation

Translated by Verse Made Simple Editorial
KJV ORIGINAL
The gold and the crystal cannot equal it: and the exchange of it shall not be for jewels of fine gold.
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE

Gold and crystal cannot compare to it, and it cannot be traded for jewelry made of the finest gold.

⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE

This verse is saying that wisdom is more valuable than the most precious materials on earth - even gold and crystal pale in comparison.

📚 Historical Context

In the Book of Job, which is set in ancient times during the patriarchal era, Job engages in poetic reflection on the limits of human understanding and the supreme value of wisdom. Chapter 28 portrays wisdom as something far beyond the reach of human mining or commerce, emphasizing that it cannot be bought with gold or gems, as these were highly prized in ancient Near Eastern cultures for wealth and status. This highlights the biblical theme that true wisdom is a divine revelation, not a human achievement.

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