The Church Fathers on this verse

Job 28:20Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Whence then cometh wisdom? and where is the place of understanding?

Douay-Rheims

וְֽ֭הַחָכְמָה מֵאַ֣יִן תָּב֑וֹא וְאֵ֥י זֶ֝֗ה מְק֣וֹם בִּינָֽה׃

Hebrew (Masoretic text)

The Church Fathers on this verse

2 Church Fathers comment on this verse

Ephraem the Syrian

4th centuryChurch Father

These statements suggest that while Christ is depicted in various representations, He transcends all forms, images, or archetypes and cannot be equated with the saints. It is mentioned that He resembles the hidden celestial authorities; however, it is widely acknowledged that these powers cannot gaze directly upon Him.

Ireneus (Orda)

19th centuryCommentator

Humanity has mastered the skill of unearthing metals and precious gems hidden in the earth’s depths, which remain beyond the reach of the eagle’s sharp gaze or the lion’s formidable strength (28:1-8). Yet, even when one finds riches within the mountains or beneath the oceans, true wisdom—the treasure far more valuable than any earthly possession—eludes him (9-19). It is concealed from all and belongs solely to God; however, it can be attained through devotion and the renunciation of wickedness (20-28). Sacred texts frequently refer to the righteous as wise and the wicked as foolish. True wisdom is embodied in living in alignment with one’s divine purpose while upholding virtue. Nothing elevates a person's moral character or aligns more closely with his true purpose than a godly life. When an individual succumbs to evil and indulges in passions, he becomes akin to an irrational beast, losing both discernment and will.

Cross references

Passages read together with this verse.