The book of Proverbs presents wisdom through a rich vocabulary of complementary terms. As one scholar notes, “The book of Proverbs opens by breaking up the plain daylight of wisdom (hokmá) into its rainbow of constituent colours. These all shade into one another, and any one of them can be used to represent the whole” (p. 34).
Kidner organizes these terms into five categories: instruction/training, understanding/insight, wise dealing, discretion, and knowledge/learning. He emphasizes that wisdom (instruction/training) requires more than casual study: “The two terms together can be summed up as discipline; they give the reminder that wisdom is not to be had through extra-mural study: it is for disciples only” (p. 34).
Discretion might suggest negative shrewdness, but Kidner sees it differently. He argues “these qualities need not be corrupt, and the book is largely concerned to show that the godly man is in the best sense a man of affairs, who takes the trouble to know his way about, and plan his course realistically…To use the literal meaning of counsels (tabbûlot, 1:5), he knows the ropes” (p. 35).
“He values truth enough to pay the price of having it.”
Derek Kidner
Wisdom demands rigorous mental training—the discipline of a committed learner. “Wisdom comes by revelation [and] discipleship” (p. 35). The disciple must master discernment, making choices that demonstrate sound judgment. Think of Abigail versus Eve. This means carrying an air of discretion—knowing how to navigate life realistically. Such wisdom builds on the foundation of doctrine gained through studying God’s revelation.
While wisdom is advertised for everyone, the cost of discipleship makes it less popular. One must turn from evil and eagerly pursue wisdom. As Kidner observes, “He values truth enough to pay the price of having it” (p. 36).
Disclaimer: Information in my “slip-box” doesn’t necessarily reflect my agreement with the source or all its content. Recording diverse perspectives helps strengthen one’s position beyond the echo chamber of like-minded thinkers. By documenting alternative viewpoints, we engage in the intellectual wrestling match that ultimately deepens our understanding.
I aspire to post one note from my “slip-box” every weekday. If you want to learn more about how to work with knowledge, click this link: What is knowledge management?
Pastor Dan Patrick, raised in Northern Virginia near Washington, D.C., holds both a Bible degree and a Master’s of Divinity. He has ministered across five states from coast to coast, serving in various capacities, including pastoral leadership. Dan’s primary mission is to help people love God’s Word and find their purpose in God’s work.
