No Price Can Buy Wisdom

12 “But wisdom – where can it be found?

Where is the place of understanding?

13 Mankind does not know its place;

it cannot be found in the land of the living.

14 The deep says, ‘It is not with me.’

And the sea says, ‘It is not with me.’

15 Fine gold cannot be given in exchange for it,

nor can its price be weighed out in silver.

16 It cannot be measured out for purchase with the gold of Ophir,

with precious onyx or sapphires.

17 Neither gold nor crystal can be compared with it,

nor can a vase of gold match its worth.

18 Of coral and jasper no mention will be made;

the price of wisdom is more than pearls.

19 The topaz of Cush cannot be compared with it;

it cannot be purchased with pure gold.