Job 28:18

"Gold and glass can’t equal it, neither will it be exchanged for jewels of fine gold."

Key Reflection

In Job 28:18, the unattainable value referred to is wisdom or understanding, symbolizing that no material wealth—whether gold, glass, or precious jewels—can match its worth. This verse underscores the spiritual and eternal significance of knowledge and insight over temporal treasures.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

No mention shall be made of coral -That is, as a price by which to purchase wisdom, or in comparison with wisdom. The margin here is, “Ramoth” - retaining the Hebrew wordראמהrâ'mâh. Jerome renders it,“excelsa”- exalted or valuable things. So the Septuagint,ΜετέωραMeteōra- exalted or sublime things; as if the word were fromרום, to be exalted. According to the rabbis, the word here means “red coral.” It occurs also inEzekiel 27:16, where it is mentioned as a valuable commodity in merchandise in which Syria traded with Tyre, and occurs in connection with emeralds, purple, broidered work, fine linen, and agate.

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