Proverbs 2.6 lists the two basic components of wisdom as factual knowledge and experiential insight. Hence, this is the definition of wisdom!


Wisdom combines factual knowledge and experiential insight. Proverbs 2.6b paraphrase


The Precept Explained

Proverbs for Professionals photo of the mountains as used in the post: The Definition of Wisdom
Precepts – as old as the hills! Proverbs 8.25

Wisdom has two basic parts, according to Proverbs 2.6.

The first part, what I know, is accumulated factual knowledge.

And, the second part, is the experiential insights to most effectively apply that knowledge. Thus, what I can do with what I know.

The Source of Wisdom

In addition, Proverbs 2.6 identifies the Lord as the source of wisdom.

Basically, I receive wisdom by listening, Proverbs 2.2, that’s being teachable. Then, I must be willing to ask, Proverbs 2.3.

Wherefore, how much simpler can it be than that?

Actually, ask-and-receive is a fundamental precept. For examples, see 1 Kings 3.5, Jeremiah 33.3, and Matthew 7.7.

As such, ask-and-receive is a version of risk-and-return. And, as well, sow-reap. Or, stimulus-response. Also, cause-and-effect.

Thus, a commonly used mental model expressed in various forms to help us understand first principles.

In short, I combine a teachable character, Proverbs 2.2, with directly asking for insight, Proverbs 2.3.

Then, I receive discernment, Proverbs 2.5. And also wisdom, Proverbs 2.6. Now, that’s a good deal!

Apply this Today!

So, it’s not enough to accumulate factual knowledge.

Instead, I must add value to those facts by being perceptive and discerning.

As such, I link those facts together into a useful network of experiential insights.

And, as a result, I position myself to use wisdom for decision-making.

As a result, we have the definition of wisdom.


Proverbs for Professionals photo of the author as used in the post: The definition of wisdom

What do you think? Send me a comment: larrydaleyoung@gmail.com