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◄ Wisdom Literature►

Topical Encyclopedia

Definition and Scope
Wisdom Literature in the Bible refers to a distinct genre of biblical texts that focus on themes of wisdom, understanding, and the moral and ethical teachings necessary for living a life pleasing to God. This body of literature is primarily found in the Old Testament and includes the books of Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and the Song of Solomon. These texts are characterized by their poetic form, use of metaphor, and exploration of life's complexities.

Books of Wisdom Literature

1.Job
The Book of Job addresses the profound questions of human suffering and divine justice. It tells the account of Job, a righteous man who endures immense suffering and loss. Through dialogues between Job and his friends, and ultimately a discourse with God, the book explores the limits of human understanding and the sovereignty of God.Job 28:28 states, "And He said to man, 'Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom, and to turn away from evil is understanding.'"

2.Psalms
While not exclusively wisdom literature, the Book of Psalms contains numerous psalms that reflect wisdom themes, such as the fear of the Lord, the pursuit of righteousness, and the transient nature of human life.Psalm 1:1-2 declares, "Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, or set foot on the path of sinners, or sit in the seat of mockers. But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on His law he meditates day and night."

3.Proverbs
The Book of Proverbs is a collection of sayings and instructions that emphasize practical wisdom and moral discipline. It is traditionally attributed to King Solomon, renowned for his wisdom.Proverbs 1:7 encapsulates its central theme: "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline."

4.Ecclesiastes
Ecclesiastes presents a philosophical reflection on the meaning of life and the pursuit of fulfillment. The author, traditionally identified as Solomon, examines the vanity of worldly pursuits and the importance of fearing God.Ecclesiastes 12:13 concludes, "When all has been heard, the conclusion of the matter is this: Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind."

5.Song of Solomon
Also known as the Song of Songs, this book is a poetic dialogue celebrating love and marriage. While its primary focus is on romantic love, it has been interpreted allegorically as representing the relationship between God and His people. The book's inclusion in wisdom literature highlights the value of love and fidelity.

Themes and Characteristics
Wisdom literature is marked by its exploration of universal human experiences and its emphasis on the fear of the Lord as the foundation of true wisdom. It often employs poetic devices such as parallelism, metaphor, and allegory to convey its messages. The texts encourage readers to seek understanding, live righteously, and recognize the limitations of human knowledge in light of divine wisdom.

Theological Significance
Wisdom literature provides insight into the character of God and His expectations for human conduct. It underscores the importance of living in accordance with God's will and offers guidance for navigating the complexities of life. The fear of the Lord, a recurring theme, is presented as the beginning of wisdom, highlighting the necessity of reverence and obedience to God.

Influence and Legacy
The wisdom literature of the Bible has had a profound impact on both religious and secular thought. Its teachings have influenced Christian ethics, philosophy, and literature throughout history. The timeless nature of its insights continues to resonate with believers seeking to live wisely and faithfully in a complex world.

International Standard Bible Encyclopedia

Wisdom Literature

WISDOM LITERATURE

lit'-er-a-tur. See preceding article.

Library

Introduction
... ThisWisdom literature started from the 'proverbs'"simple thoughts conveyed in a
couplet or triplet of verse, which were collected together by King Solomon...

Select Masterpieces of BiblicalLiterature
Select Masterpieces of BiblicalLiterature. <. Select Masterpieces of Biblical
Literature Various.... VIII PROPHETIC SENTENCES.WISDOM.WISDOM BREVITIES....

Wisdom Brevities
Select Masterpieces of BiblicalLiterature. <....WISDOM WISDOM BREVITIES.
The liberal soul shall be made fat: And he that...

Practical Methods of Studying the Old Testament
... [Sidenote: Study of thewisdom literature]. Less spiritual and yet intensely
interesting and practical is the great department of...

Wisdom and the Fear of the Lord
Select Masterpieces of BiblicalLiterature. <.... SONNETS viWisdom and the Fear
of the Lord. Allwisdom cometh from the Lord, And is with him for ever....

TheWisdom of Business and theWisdom of Leisure
Select Masterpieces of BiblicalLiterature. <.... ESSAYS vi TheWisdom
of Business and theWisdom of Leisure. Thewisdom...

The Hebrew Sages and their Proverbs
... It is significant that neither Israel nor the nation is mentioned in all thewisdom
literature, and that man is spoken of thirty-three times in the book of...

The Christian View of the Old Testament
... Veracity of inscriptions, 145 f. View point, 149 f. Vision theory, 50 f.Wisdom
literature, 16 f., 244 ff. Yahweh, 171 ff., 217. Yaudi, 135....

Wisdom and the Strange Woman
Select Masterpieces of BiblicalLiterature. <.... SONNETS viiWisdom
and the Strange Woman. 1 My son, keep my words, And...

IWisdom's Way with Her Children
Select Masterpieces of BiblicalLiterature. <.... ESSAYS iWisdom's
Way with her Children.Wisdom exalteth her sons, and...