Job 28
Summary for Job 28:1-28: 28:1-28 a This section is a self-contained speech. No speaker is listed, so it could be a continuation of the preceding words. However, some consider this a poetic interlude by the author of Job that sums up the argument to this point, emphasizes the failure of human wisdom, and lays the foundation for the Lord’s speeches.28:5 b Miners melted rock by burning a fire in a mine for days or even weeks to melt out the ore. Some alternated fire with cold water to split the rocks.
28:13 c Wisdom does not originate among the living. God is the source of true wisdom (28:23-28 d).
Summary for Job 28:16-19: 28:16-19 e The metals, gemstones, and glass listed here were precious in the ancient world, but the speaker says that wisdom is much more precious than wealth.
Summary for Job 28:23-27: 28:23-27 f When God looks throughout the whole earth (28:23 g), he sees his own wisdom expressed in his creation. God later showcased his wisdom for Job when he took him on a cosmic tour (chs 38–41 h).
28:28 i fear of the Lord (Hebrew, ’adonay): In Job, this name for God appears only here, which might be one argument for understanding ch 28 j as the narrator’s own poem.
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