True wisdom is more valuable than any earthly treasure.
Coral and crystal are not to be mentioned; And the acquisition of wisdom is above that of pearls. (v.18)
Job 28:18 underscores that there is no material wealth or physical treasure—such as coral, crystal, or splendid pearls—that can compare to the priceless value of wisdom. Wisdom in the Old Testament often carries the connotation of a deep, reverent understanding of God’s character and His ways. The description of coral and crystal being unworthy even to mention reinforces their insignificance in comparison to true wisdom. This passage is part of Job’s discourse on the elusive nature of wisdom, a theme echoed elsewhere in Scripture. Proverbs 3:15 also uses the imagery of precious jewels to show that wisdom’s value is priceless. Much like the “pearl of great price” spoken of by Jesus, there is no earthly thing that equals the worth of godly insight (Matthew 13:45-46).
Because Job is set in the ancient Near East, likely in or near the land of Uz, the author and timeframe precede the Mosaic Law (possibly around 2100-1900 BC), though Scripture does not give exact dates. The emphasis on wisdom resonates across the generations, indicating that possessing spiritual understanding and intimacy with the Lord should be the believer’s highest pursuit. By placing wisdom above every material acquisition, the text admonishes us that only what is found in a life aligned with God’s truth can bring ultimate fulfillment and clarity. In a broader biblical context, many sufferings and trials—like those of Job—have a purpose: they draw us closer to the God who grants true wisdom to those who seek Him (James 1:5).
Even Jesus’s teaching magnifies the treasure of wisdom, highlighting that earthly possessions cannot stand against the surpassing importance of understanding and following God. This timeless message remains just as relevant in the New Testament era, where believers are urged to store up treasures in heaven, seeking first His kingdom (Matthew 6:19-20, 33). The focus is always on the fact that real worth is measured by how well we understand and walk with God, rather than any material wealth we could accumulate.
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Job 28:18 meaning
Coral and crystal are not to be mentioned; And the acquisition of wisdom is above that of pearls. (v.18)
Job 28:18 underscores that there is no material wealth or physical treasure—such as coral, crystal, or splendid pearls—that can compare to the priceless value of wisdom. Wisdom in the Old Testament often carries the connotation of a deep, reverent understanding of God’s character and His ways. The description of coral and crystal being unworthy even to mention reinforces their insignificance in comparison to true wisdom. This passage is part of Job’s discourse on the elusive nature of wisdom, a theme echoed elsewhere in Scripture. Proverbs 3:15 also uses the imagery of precious jewels to show that wisdom’s value is priceless. Much like the “pearl of great price” spoken of by Jesus, there is no earthly thing that equals the worth of godly insight (Matthew 13:45-46).
Because Job is set in the ancient Near East, likely in or near the land of Uz, the author and timeframe precede the Mosaic Law (possibly around 2100-1900 BC), though Scripture does not give exact dates. The emphasis on wisdom resonates across the generations, indicating that possessing spiritual understanding and intimacy with the Lord should be the believer’s highest pursuit. By placing wisdom above every material acquisition, the text admonishes us that only what is found in a life aligned with God’s truth can bring ultimate fulfillment and clarity. In a broader biblical context, many sufferings and trials—like those of Job—have a purpose: they draw us closer to the God who grants true wisdom to those who seek Him (James 1:5).
Even Jesus’s teaching magnifies the treasure of wisdom, highlighting that earthly possessions cannot stand against the surpassing importance of understanding and following God. This timeless message remains just as relevant in the New Testament era, where believers are urged to store up treasures in heaven, seeking first His kingdom (Matthew 6:19-20, 33). The focus is always on the fact that real worth is measured by how well we understand and walk with God, rather than any material wealth we could accumulate.