12 But where can wisdom be found?* Where is the place to gain understanding? 13 Human beings do not know the way to wisdom; it is not found among the living. 14 The deep waters say, ‘It's not here,’ and the sea says, ‘It's not here either.’ 15 It cannot be bought with gold; nor can it be purchased with silver. 16 Its value cannot be measured, even with the gold of Ophir;* it is more precious than onyx or lapis lazuli. 17 Gold or fine glass* cannot compare with wisdom; it cannot be exchanged for gold jewelry. 18 Coral and crystal are not worth mentioning; the price of wisdom is far above rubies.* 19 Topaz from Ethiopia can't compare with it; it cannot be bought with the purest gold.

20 So where does wisdom come from? Where is the place to gain understanding? 21 Wisdom is hidden from the sight of all living things, even the birds of the air cannot see it. 22 Abaddon* and Death say, ‘We've only heard a rumor of it.’