Bible Dictionary
VEIN
In Job 28:1, “vein” refers to the source or course from which silver comes. Modern translations commonly render the word “mine,” emphasizing the place where silver is extracted.
Definition
Vein, in the older rendering of Job 28:1, refers to the source or place from which silver comes. The underlying word means going forth or source, so modern translations render it mine.
Biblical Usage
The term occurs only in Job 28:1, in a statement concerning the source or mine of silver.
Historical Background
Both vein and mine are more specialized than the underlying word, but mine is regarded as conveying its original sense more clearly.
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>van: Only in Job 28:1, the King James Version "a vein for the silver," or motsa', "going forth," "source." Both the King James Version "vein" and the Revised Version (British and American) "mine" are more specialized than motsa', but the Revised Version (British and American) doubtless conveys the original meaning.</p>