What is Wisdom?

The question comes to me with curiosity. We all take for granted that we understand what wisdom is. It is widely accepted that wisdom is "the quality or state of being wise; scholarly knowledge or learning." That prompts me to ask what does wise really mean? Most would agree on the answer of "having or showing discernment and good judgement" or "having or showing scholarly knowledge or learning." While the dictionary is a great friend to have in deciphering these commonly used words, I have to wonder where the additional instruction is on how to attain them or how their meaning fits into my everyday life.

In my reading this morning I came across an amazingly clear example of why we should seek it and the benefits of an often complex journey. This one passage provides a refreshing light on the importance and benefits of wisdom.

"Happy is the man who finds wisdom, and the man who gains understanding; For her proceeds are better than the profits of silver, and her gain than fine gold. She is more precious than rubies, and all the things you may desire cannot compare with her. Length of days is in her right hand. In her left hand riches and honor. Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace. She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her, and happy are all who retain her." *

This passage truly creates a visual image of the life that is attainable through wisdom. It also provides the path that is created when you are willing to secure the knowledge that creates wisdom.

Let's recap what you get when you grasp wisdom.

1. Happiness
2. Profits beyond that of silver and gold
3. More precious than rubies
4. Length of days
5. Riches and Honor
6. Pleasantness and Peace
7. Growing life in strength
8. and once again Happiness

There is significance that happiness is mentioned twice. I think it is evident that much of our society is endlessly searching for happiness. Can you imagine what would happen if everyone finally found the right path to happiness?

Are you traveling on a path that leads to wisdom? Or are you continually moving in circles because you are unwilling to accept knowledge, and in turn wisdom in your everyday life? There is more out there than what you see and what you feel, but you must pursue it to attain it.

My hope is that this brings questions to your mind. That you will consider this and do your own searching and questioning. Open your mind to that which on the surface is out of line with the world we live in.



*(Proverbs 4:13-18 NKJV)