^{12 Ref} And the wisdom -- whence is it found? And where `is' this, the place of understanding?

^{13 Ref} Man hath not known its arrangement, Nor is it found in the land of the living.

^{14 Ref} The deep hath said, `It `is' not in me,' And the sea hath said, `It is not with me.'

^{15 Ref} Gold is not given for it, Nor is silver weighed -- its price.

^{16 Ref} It is not valued with pure gold of Ophir, With precious onyx and sapphire,

^{17 Ref} Not equal it do gold and crystal, Nor `is' its exchange a vessel of fine gold.

^{18 Ref} Corals and pearl are not remembered, The acquisition of wisdom `is' above rubies.

^{19 Ref} Not equal it doth the topaz of Cush, With pure gold it is not valued.

^{20 Ref} And the wisdom -- whence doth it come? And where `is' this, the place of understanding?

^{21 Ref} It hath been hid from the eyes of all living. And from the fowl of the heavens It hath been hidden.

^{22 Ref} Destruction and death have said: `With our ears we have heard its fame.'

^{23 Ref} God hath understood its way, And He hath known its place.