"By three methods we may learn wisdom: first, by reflection, which is noblest; second, by imitation, which is easiest; and third by experience, which is the bitterest."
-- Confucius
Confucius placed wisdom in relation with other people, to understand others, it's wisdom. What does the Bible say about wisdom?
"Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and shun evil"
Once, Fan Chi, one of Confucius' students, asked his master, "what is benevolence?" His teacher answered in just two words, "loving people."
Fan Chi then asked again, "and what is this thing called wisdom?" His teacher simply answered, again, in just two words, "knowing people."
Confucius placed wisdom in relation with other people, to understand others, it's wisdom. What does the Bible say about wisdom?
"Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and shun evil"
-- Proverbs 3: 7, NIV
"A wise man fears the LORD and shuns evil, but a fool is hotheaded and reckless"
-- Proverbs, 14: 16, NIV
Wisdom is relational. However, knowing other people does not suffice. Wisdom is first shown by the fear of the LORD. Thus, it's knowing God. Secondly, wisdom is shown by our attitude to shun evil. Thus, it's repentance.
"Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom."
-- James 3: 13, NIV
Lastly, wisdom is shown through good life, good behavior. It requires our understanding of self-holiness, it requires our understanding of ourselves.
A short reflection from Seminar on 28-29 May 2010.
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