King James Version

What Does Job 28:1 Mean?

“Surely there is a vein for the silver, and a place for gold where they fine it. vein: or, mine”

Context

Surely there is a vein for the silver, and a place for gold where they fine it. vein: or, mine

Iron is taken out of the earth, and brass is molten out of the stone. earth: or, dust

He setteth an end to darkness, and searcheth out all perfection: the stones of darkness, and the shadow of death.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

**XXVIII.** (1) **Surely there is a vein for the silver.**—In this chapter Job draws out a magnificent contrast between human skill and ingenuity and Divine wisdom. The difficulty to the ordinary reader is in not perceiving that the person spoken of in Job 28:3 is *man, *and not God. Man possesses and exercises this mastery over nature, but yet is ignorant of wisdom unless God bestows it on him. That Job should say this is but natural, after his painful experience of the want of wisdom in his friends.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Job. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Job 28:1 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.