the search for wisdom

But where shall wisdom be found? And where is the place of understanding?
Man does not know its worth, and it is not found in the land of the living.
Job 28:12-13

The book of Job is given status as an Old Testament book of wisdom. It rests classified within two literary genres: wisdom literature and poetry. And really, it is Job's speech at this point that places Job into this wisdom category. It is this dialogue in which Job likens the search for wisdom as a more difficult and rewarding task than mining for gold or seeking the rarest of gemstones.

Job indicates that although people search long and hard for wisdom, its ultimate source is not with the human mind. Man cannot generate it. He can find it, but he cannot make it. It is not found anywhere naturally among the collection of human thought alone. Wisdom is thus scarcer than any precious metal and it is to be highly prized once obtained by the searcher.

Job's conclusion is that there is only one way to find wisdom. God alone knows where wisdom is. And only by the worship and fear of The Lord can true wisdom be found (Job 28:23, 28). It is anchored firmly in the knowledge of God. To find real wisdom, one must seek God.