Job 28:17
Job 28:17 in Multiple Translations
Neither gold nor crystal can compare to it, nor jewels of fine gold be exchanged for it.
The gold and the crystal cannot equal it: and the exchange of it shall not be for jewels of fine gold.
Gold and glass cannot equal it, Neither shall it be exchanged for jewels of fine gold.
Gold and glass are not equal to it in price, and it may not be exchanged for jewels of the best gold.
Gold or fine glass cannot compare with wisdom; it cannot be exchanged for gold jewelry.
The golde nor the chrystall shall be equall vnto it, nor the exchange shalbe for plate of fine golde.
Not equal it do gold and crystal, Nor [is] its exchange a vessel of fine gold.
Gold and glass can’t equal it, neither will it be exchanged for jewels of fine gold.
The gold and the crystal cannot equal it: and the exchange of it shall not be for jewels of fine gold.
Gold or crystal cannot equal it, neither shall any vessels of gold be changed for it.
It is worth much more than gold or beautiful glass, worth more than vases made from fine gold.
Berean Amplified Bible — Job 28:17
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Job 28:17 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
לֹא
יַעַרְכֶ֣/נָּה
זָ֭הָב
וּ/זְכוֹכִ֑ית
וּ/תְמ֖וּרָתָ֣/הּ
כְּלִי
פָֽז
לֹא
lôʼ
H3808
not
Part
יַעַרְכֶ֣/נָּה
ʻârak
H6186
to arrange
V-Qal-Imperf-3ms | Suff
זָ֭הָב
zâhâb
H2091
gold
N-ms
וּ/זְכוֹכִ֑ית
zᵉkûwkîyth
H2137
glass
Conj | N-fs
וּ/תְמ֖וּרָתָ֣/הּ
tᵉmûwrâh
H8545
exchange
Conj | N-fs | Suff
כְּלִי
kᵉlîy
H3627
article/utensil
N-ms
פָֽז
pâz
H6337
pure gold
N-ms
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — Job 28:17
לֹא
lôʼ
H3808
"not"
Part
The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.
Definition: 1) not, no 1a) not (with verb-absolute prohibition) 1b) not (with modifier-negation) 1c) nothing (subst) 1d) without (with particle) 1e) before (of time) Aramaic equivalent: la (לָא "not" H3809)
Usage: Occurs in 3967 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] before, [phrase] or else, ere, [phrase] except, ig(-norant), much, less, nay, neither, never, no((-ne), -r, (-thing)), ([idiom] as though...,(can-), for) not (out of), of nought, otherwise, out of, [phrase] surely, [phrase] as truly as, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] verily, for want, [phrase] whether, without. See also: Genesis 2:5; Genesis 31:15; Exodus 4:9.
יַעַרְכֶ֣/נָּה
ʻârak
H6186
"to arrange"
V-Qal-Imperf-3ms | Suff
This Hebrew word means to value or arrange things in order. It is used in various contexts, like setting up an army for battle or estimating the value of something, as seen in 1 Kings 10.
Definition: 1) to arrange, set or put or lay in order, set in array, prepare, order, ordain, handle, furnish, esteem, equal, direct, compare 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to arrange or set or lay in order, arrange, state in order, set forth (a legal case), set in place 1a2) to compare, be comparable
Usage: Occurs in 72 OT verses. KJV: put (set) (the battle, self) in array, compare, direct, equal, esteem, estimate, expert (in war), furnish, handle, join (battle), ordain, (lay, put, reckon up, set) (in) order, prepare, tax, value. See also: Genesis 14:8; 1 Chronicles 12:39; Psalms 5:4.
זָ֭הָב
zâhâb
H2091
"gold"
N-ms
Gold is a valuable metal, also used to describe something yellow or brilliant, like oil or a clear sky. It is often mentioned in the Bible as a precious resource.
Definition: 1) gold 1a) as precious metal 1b) as a measure of weight 1c) of brilliance, splendour (fig.) Aramaic equivalent: de.hav (דְּהַב "gold" H1722)
Usage: Occurs in 336 OT verses. KJV: gold(-en), fair weather. See also: Genesis 2:11; Numbers 7:26; 1 Chronicles 28:17.
וּ/זְכוֹכִ֑ית
zᵉkûwkîyth
H2137
"glass"
Conj | N-fs
In the Bible, this word refers to glass or crystal, describing something transparent and clear. It appears in Job and Ezekiel, using glass as a metaphor for clarity and purity. The Bible values transparency and honesty.
Definition: glass, crystal, fine glass
Usage: Occurs in 1 OT verses. KJV: crystal. See also: Job 28:17.
וּ/תְמ֖וּרָתָ֣/הּ
tᵉmûwrâh
H8545
"exchange"
Conj | N-fs | Suff
This term refers to an exchange or barter, like trading one thing for another. In the Bible, it can mean compensation or restitution, as seen in the laws of Exodus. It involves giving something in return for something else.
Definition: that which is exchanged, exchange, substitute, recompense
Usage: Occurs in 6 OT verses. KJV: (ex-) change(-ing), recompense, restitution. See also: Leviticus 27:10; Job 15:31; Job 28:17.
כְּלִי
kᵉlîy
H3627
"article/utensil"
N-ms
This Hebrew word refers to any object or tool, like a utensil or a piece of furniture. It is used to describe a wide range of items, from musical instruments to weapons. It emphasizes the object's purpose or function.
Definition: 1) article, vessel, implement, utensil 1a) article, object (general) 1b) utensil, implement, apparatus, vessel 1b1) implement (of hunting or war) 1b2) implement (of music) 1b3) implement, tool (of labour) 1b4) equipment, yoke (of oxen) 1b5) utensils, furniture 1c) vessel, receptacle (general) 1d) vessels (boats) of paper-reed
Usage: Occurs in 276 OT verses. KJV: armour(-bearer), artillery, bag, carriage, [phrase] furnish, furniture, instrument, jewel, that is made of, [idiom] one from another, that which pertaineth, pot, [phrase] psaltery, sack, stuff, thing, tool, vessel, ware, weapon, [phrase] whatsoever. See also: Genesis 24:53; 1 Samuel 14:13; Ezra 8:26.
פָֽז
pâz
H6337
"pure gold"
N-ms
Pure gold, or refined gold, is a valuable metal used in the Bible. It is translated as fine gold in the KJV.
Definition: refined or pure gold
Usage: Occurs in 9 OT verses. KJV: fine (pure) gold. See also: Job 28:17; Proverbs 8:19; Psalms 19:11.
Study Notes — Job 28:17
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Job 28:17 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Job 28:17
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Job 28:17
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Job 28:17
- Trapp's Commentary on Job 28:17
- Ellicott's Commentary on Job 28:17
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on Job 28:17
- Cambridge Bible on Job 28:17
- Barnes' Notes on Job 28:17
- Whedon's Commentary on Job 28:17
- Sermons on Job 28:17
Context — Where Can Wisdom Be Found?
15It cannot be bought with gold, nor can its price be weighed out in silver.
16It cannot be valued in the gold of Ophir, in precious onyx or sapphire.
17Neither gold nor crystal can compare to it, nor jewels of fine gold be exchanged for it.
18Coral and quartz are unworthy of mention; the price of wisdom is beyond rubies. 19Topaz from Cush cannot compare to it, nor can it be valued in pure gold.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Revelation 22:1 | Then the angel showed me a river of the water of life, as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb |
| 2 | Revelation 4:6 | And before the throne was something like a sea of glass, as clear as crystal. In the center, around the throne, were four living creatures, covered with eyes in front and back. |
| 3 | Revelation 21:11 | shining with the glory of God. Its radiance was like a most precious jewel, like a jasper, as clear as crystal. |
| 4 | Ezekiel 1:22 | Spread out above the heads of the living creatures was the likeness of an awesome expanse, gleaming like crystal. |
| 5 | Proverbs 16:16 | How much better to acquire wisdom than gold! To gain understanding is more desirable than silver. |
Job 28:17 Summary
[This verse is saying that wisdom is more valuable than any amount of gold, crystal, or jewels. It's like comparing something priceless to something that can be bought and sold. As seen in Job 28:15, wisdom can't be bought with gold, and as Psalm 119:72 says, God's word is more valuable than thousands of pieces of gold and silver. The Bible encourages us to seek wisdom and value the things of God above material possessions, as Jesus teaches in Matthew 6:19-21.]
Frequently Asked Questions
What is being compared to gold and crystal in this verse?
The verse is referring to wisdom, which is being described as more valuable than precious materials like gold and crystal, as seen in the surrounding verses, such as Job 28:15 and Job 28:18.
Why can't gold or jewels be exchanged for wisdom?
According to the verse, wisdom is beyond material value, and its price cannot be measured in terms of gold or jewels, which is a theme also found in Proverbs 3:13-18 and Proverbs 8:10-21.
Is this verse saying that material wealth is worthless?
No, the verse is not saying that material wealth is worthless, but rather that wisdom is more valuable than material wealth, as also seen in Psalm 119:72 and Psalm 119:127, where the psalmist values God's word above wealth.
How can I apply this verse to my life?
This verse reminds us to prioritize seeking wisdom and valuing the things of God above material possessions, as encouraged in Matthew 6:19-21 and Matthew 6:33.
Reflection Questions
- What are some areas in my life where I prioritize material wealth over seeking wisdom?
- How can I cultivate a deeper desire for wisdom and spiritual growth in my daily life?
- What are some ways I can apply the principle of valuing wisdom above material wealth in my relationships and decision-making?
- In what ways have I experienced the value of wisdom in my own life, and how can I share that with others?
Gill's Exposition on Job 28:17
The gold and the crystal cannot equal it,.... Crystal was found in an island of the Red sea, situated before Arabia, called Neron, and in another, which from a gem found in it bears the name of
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Job 28:17
The gold and the crystal cannot equal it: and the exchange of it shall not be for jewels of fine gold. Crystal , [ zªkowkiyt (H2137)] - or else glass, if then known, very costly. From a root [ zaakah (H2135)], to be transparent.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Job 28:17
The crystal; or, amber, which in those parts was of very great price; or, the diamond. The Hebrew word is not elsewhere used, and it hath in it the signification of purity, or clearness, or brightness. Jewels; or, vessels; wherein there is not only the excellency of the materials, but the curiosity of art, which renders the other much more valuable.
Trapp's Commentary on Job 28:17
Job 28:17 The gold and the crystal cannot equal it: and the exchange of it [shall not be for] jewels of fine gold.Ver. 17. The gold and the crystal cannot equal it] For crystal some read diamond, others adamant. It hath its name from its purity and transparency. Junius rendereth it therefore nitidissima gemma. It seems to be, saith one, the last attempt of nature, and makes us find heaven on earth. And the exchange of it shall not be for jewels (or vessels) of fine gold] Of phez gold, so Broughton renders it, Vas auri puri puti, and would have it come from Fesse, in Barbary. The Arabians now call gold phes. Of this solid fast gold were made many precious jewels or vessels, like that French coin in the historian, in qua plus formae quam ponderis, in which was not so much weight as workmanship: Proverbs 25:11, "Apples of gold in lattices of silver"; or put in a case of silver cut work.
Ellicott's Commentary on Job 28:17
(17) The exchange of it.—Or, according to some, the attraction of it. The remainder of this chapter calls for little remark: its unrivalled sublimity is patent, and comment is superfluous. There is a general resemblance between this chapter and Proverbs 8, and both seem to imply a knowledge of the Mosaic narrative of creation.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Job 28:17
Verse 17. See Clarke on Job 28:16.
Cambridge Bible on Job 28:17
17. and the crystal] Probably glass, which was rare and counted precious in ancient times. cannot equal it] The word means to arrange, to set over against, to compare with. The idea here is that gold and glass cannot be set against Wisdom by way of barter, as the next clause distinctly states.
Barnes' Notes on Job 28:17
The gold and the crystal - A crystal, in chemistry, is an inorganic body which, by the operation of affinity, has assumed the form of a regular solid, terminated by a number of plane and smooth surfaces.
Whedon's Commentary on Job 28:17
17. Crystal — Probably glass. The manufacture of glass is of great antiquity, as is evident from the paintings at Beni Hassan, of more than 3,800 years ago, which still represent the process of glass-blowing.
Sermons on Job 28:17
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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A River of Life by Art Katz | Art Katz emphasizes the significance of the 'river of life' flowing from the throne of God, illustrating how this divine life is accessible to believers who submit to God's soverei |
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Inexhaustible Resources in Christ by Alan Redpath | In this sermon, the speaker reflects on their personal journey of faith and acknowledges their own stubbornness. They believe that we are living in the end times and that Satan is |
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Resources for Christian Living by Alan Redpath | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of experiencing a deep and ongoing relationship with God. He warns against becoming complacent or shallow in one's faith and u |
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If I Perish I Perish-03 Ministry From Esther by Major Ian Thomas | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the struggle between the flesh and the spirit in the life of a believer. He emphasizes that when the flesh dominates, it leads to moral defea |
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(Revelation) the New Heaven Earth Jerusalem by Willie Mullan | In this sermon, the speaker begins by discussing the book of Revelation and its significance. He highlights that the first three chapters of Revelation reveal God's revelation of C |
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The Persistent Purpose of God - Part 12 by T. Austin-Sparks | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the symbolism of a river that flows toward the east and how it represents the progressive fullness of the Spirit of Jesus. The river starts s |
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Revelation - Part 2 by Zac Poonen | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of books in ancient times, comparing them to scrolls and even a rolled-up videotape. The sermon then delves into the idea of a "v |