John Gill Reformed Baptist @doctorgill

But he that received one,.... Talent, or the least degree of gifts, for the ministry of the word: went and digged in the earth, and hid his Lord's money. The Syriac and Arabic versions read, "silver", and the Ethiopic, "gold"; but whether these talents were silver or gold, is not certain.

Albert Barnes Presbyterian @notesbybarnes

Verse 18. Digged in the earth, etc. This represents the conduct of those who neglect the abilities that God has given, and fail to do what he has required. This is done often: 1st. On the plea that they do not occupy a high station. 2nd. That they have slender abilities, and can do little good. 3rd.