Adam Clarke's Bible Commentary Verse 1. Surely there is a vein for the silver ] This chapter is the oldest and finest piece of natural history in the world, and gives us very important information on several curious subjects; and could we ascertain the precise meaning of all the original words, we might, most probably, find out allusions to several useful arts which we are apt to think are of modern, or comparatively modern, invention. The word axwm motsa, which we here translate vein, signifies literally, a going out; i.e., a mine, or place dug in the earth, whence the silver ore is extracted. And this ore lies generally in veins or loads, running in certain directions.
A place for gold where they fine it. ] This should rather be translated, A place for gold which they refine. Gold ore has also its peculiar mine, and requires to be refined from earthy impurities.
Matthew Henry Commentary
Verses 1-11 - Job maintained that the dispensations of Providence were regulated by the highest wisdom. To confirm this, he showed of what a great deal of knowledge and wealth men may make themselves masters. The caverns of the earth may be discovered, but not the counsels of Heaven. God to the miners, thou sluggard in religion, consider their ways, and be wise Let their courage and diligence in seeking the wealth that perishes shame us out of slothfulness and faint-heartedness in labouring for the true riches. How much better is it to get wisdom than gold! How muc easier, and safer! Yet gold is sought for, but grace neglected. Wil the hopes of precious things out of the earth, so men call them, thoug really they are paltry and perishing, be such a spur to industry, an shall not the certain prospect of truly precious things in heaven be much more so?
Original Hebrew כי3588 ישׁ3426 לכסף3701 מוצא4161 ומקום4725 לזהב2091 יזקו׃2212
