What is the meaning of Job 28:11? He stops up •The immediate picture is a miner intentionally blocking water so the shaft stays dry. Job has just spoken of men who “break open shafts far from human habitation” (Job 28:4) and “hew out channels in the rocks” (Job 28:10). •At the same time, Scripture often shows God Himself masterfully redirecting water: He “turns rivers into deserts” (Psalm 107:33) and “rebuked the Red Sea, and it dried up” (Psalm 106:9). Whether the verse spotlights human ingenuity or divine sovereignty, the action is purposeful, controlled, and effective. the sources of the streams •“Sources” points to the very fountains where water begins—underground springs that ordinarily stay out of sight. Job later hears God ask, “Have you journeyed to the springs of the sea?” (Job 38:16), underscoring their hidden nature. •Stopping up a spring involves deep knowledge of the terrain and courage to tamper with something powerful. It reminds us of Proverbs 8:28, where God “established the fountains of the deep,” asserting that every wellspring is ultimately under His command. to bring what is hidden •Why block the water? So buried treasures—gold, sapphires, or ores—can finally be reached. The miner’s goal is discovery. This mirrors God’s work with truth: “He reveals the deep things of darkness and brings deep shadows into light” (Job 12:22). •In the New Testament the same theme appears: “The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God” (1 Corinthians 2:10). What we cannot uncover on our own, God graciously discloses. to light •Once water is held back, the dark cavern fills with daylight, and hidden minerals glisten. Light symbolizes revelation throughout Scripture. John 1:4-5 declares, “In Him was life, and that life was the light of men.” •Ephesians 5:13 reminds believers, “Everything exposed by the light becomes visible,” encouraging us to welcome God’s illuminating work in every corner of life. summary Job 28:11 paints a vivid scene of water being stopped, darkness lifted, and secret riches uncovered. On the human level, it celebrates the miner’s skill; on the higher level, it points to the Lord who controls the springs and delights to reveal what lies concealed. Whether physical treasure or spiritual wisdom, nothing remains hidden when He decides to shine His light. |
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