Exploring Biblical Wisdom - Words From the WiseSample

So far, in these short pieces, we have seen the difference between heavenly wisdom and earthly wisdom (Jas 3:13-18), and that God will provide us with the wisdom we need if we ask him for it in faith (Jas 1:5). What more can we learn about this from the Old Testament?

In the Old Testament, the words hokmah (wisdom) and hakam (wise) feature in a wide range of situations. There is a rich variety to their meaning and usage. One case is in interpreting dreams, in particular in the stories of Joseph and Daniel. Again, the emphasis is that there are two sources of wisdom, human and divine, and that the origin of true wisdom lies with God alone.

Perhaps more surprisingly, we find that God-given wisdom often lies in the area of practical abilities where the Hebrew word hokmah is translated as skill, or skilled. For instance, in Exod 28:3, God says, “Tell all the skilled workers to whom I have given wisdom in such matters that they are to make garments for Aaron, for his consecration, so that he may serve me as priest.”

Another example is Bezalel who, along with many skilled co-workers, was chosen by God to make objects for the tabernacle: “I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, with understanding, with knowledge and with all kinds of skills. . .” (Exod 31:2-11; also Exod 35:30ff). These skills included working in precious metals and wood, weaving, embroidery, and many kinds of artistic crafts. These are all part of true wisdom as endowed by God.

Overall, the Hebrew concept of wisdom is not restricted to intellectual prowess. Rather, it is knowing what is needed to accomplish a particular task within various spheres of activity. It is not primarily academic, nor is it purely an abstract concept. It is never merely a matter of knowing facts but of recognising how to apply them successfully to whatever is the task at hand.

Wisdom is about gaining a mastery of living in accordance with God’s ways. The wise man is accomplished in living a life that pleases God. With God’s gift of wisdom, he steers his way through life’s many storms. He copes better with the vagaries of life and finds well-being in all things. He makes the right choices at the right time.

In short, wisdom helps us survive and thrive. The wise man is someone who has mastered something; ultimately, that includes life itself and, in particular, life with God.