12 But where can wisdom be found? And where is the place of understanding?
13 Man does not know its value, nor is it found in the land of the living.
14 The deep says, It is not in me; and the sea says, It is not with me.
15 It cannot be given for gold, nor can silver be weighed for its price.
16 It cannot be weighed against the gold of Ophir, the precious onyx or sapphire.
17 Neither gold nor crystal can be compared to it, nor can it be exchanged for articles of fine gold.
18 No mention shall be made of coral or crystal, for the acquiring of wisdom is above precious stones.
19 The topaz of Ethiopia cannot be compared to it, nor can it be weighed out for pure gold.
20 From where then does wisdom come? And where is the place of understanding?
21 It is hidden from the eyes of all living, and concealed from the birds of the heavens.
22 Abaddon and Death say, We have heard a report of it with our ears.