The four types of wisdom
A biblical guide to wisdom
The world is experiencing a seismic shift, as long-established powers tremble and once-unshakable foundations begin to crack. Despite living in an era of unprecedented knowledge, marked by advancements in technology, medicine, and various facets of life, there is a troubling observation: wisdom appears to be in decline. While data shows rising rates of post-secondary graduations and the proliferation of educational opportunities as evidence of societal progress, wisdom itself seems to be slipping through our fingers. What’s more concerning is that this decline often goes unnoticed. Those who do recognize it often remain silent, as any mention of the issue tends to be met with rebuttals citing scientific achievements and academic breakthroughs.
The decline in wisdom today can be attributed to two fundamental issues. First, our society uses flawed metrics to measure wisdom, often conflating it with mere knowledge. We tend to equate wisdom with the accumulation of information, but wisdom is much more than that—it’s the ability to apply knowledge in meaningful and beneficial ways. A person may hold multiple degrees and possess extensive knowledge, yet still lack the insight needed to make truly wise decisions.
Second, the types of wisdom recognized and celebrated today are often not true wisdom. The most acclaimed wisdom in our world tends to be secular and detached from God. True wisdom, which comes from heaven, is increasingly ignored as society distances itself from God and His teachings. Despite our technological advancements and educational achievements, the secular approach leaves us unwise. Previous generations, with fewer resources, made wiser choices because they sought and valued divine wisdom.
The litmus test for wisdom is not found in theoretical knowledge or intellectual prowess but in the tangible and intangible outcomes of our choices and actions. Wisdom reveals itself through how we apply our knowledge and make decisions that reflect true understanding and discernment.
Understanding Wisdom: A Biblical Perspective
In the Bible, the term commonly translated as wisdom is "chokmah" (Strong’s H2451). Unlike mere intellectual knowledge, chokmah encompasses a broader spectrum of understanding, extending to practical skills and craftsmanship. This wisdom is not confined to scholarly pursuits but is also revealed in the adept application of one’s skills to enhance life and contribute positively to society.
Certain books within the Bible serve as reservoirs of wisdom teachings—Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and James each offer invaluable insights into navigating life’s complexities with discernment. Among these, the book of Proverbs stands out as a comprehensive guide to wisdom, addressing virtually every facet of human experience. Its timeless wisdom often lies in plain sight, waiting to be discovered by those willing to delve into its depths.
Though ancient in its origin, wisdom remains a timeless and indispensable pursuit, as relevant today as it was in generations past. Its allure lies not only in its promises and rewards but also in its transformative power. However, not all wisdom is created equal. According to James 3:13-17, there are four categories of wisdom: earthly, sensual, demonic, and heavenly. Each is distinct, with its own manifestations and consequences.
Exploring the Four Types of Wisdom
Earthly Wisdom
Earthly wisdom, also known as "Sofia," is the kind of wisdom acquired through careful observation and analysis of the world around us. This wisdom, rooted in practical, everyday experiences, is often referred to as ancient wisdom or the wisdom of age, as highlighted in Job 12:12. It is the knowledge we gain simply by living and learning from our surroundings. For instance, we learn from experience that fire burns, so we instinctively avoid putting our hands in it. This is not something we need to be taught in a classroom; it is a natural understanding that emerges from interacting with the world.
At the heart of earthly wisdom lies what we commonly refer to as "common sense." Common sense is the practical judgment that is widely accepted as sound and reliable. It is the ability to make decisions or draw conclusions based on everyday experiences and general knowledge that is shared among most people. What makes common sense "common" is its universality—it's expected that everyone, regardless of education or background, possesses it to some degree.
However, in today's world, common sense is not as common as it once was. Several factors contribute to this decline. For one, the rapid pace of technological advancement has shifted our focus from practical, hands-on experience to abstract, digital interactions. We now live in a world where much of our knowledge is acquired through screens rather than direct experience, leading to a disconnect from the natural, intuitive understanding that underpins common sense.
In essence, earthly wisdom, or common sense, is the bedrock of practical living—a form of wisdom that should naturally guide our daily decisions. Yet, as society evolves, the very qualities that once made common sense so accessible and widespread are being challenged. To reclaim this vital form of wisdom, we must return to the basics: trust in our own experiences, value simple truths, and foster a shared understanding of what it means to live wisely.
Sensual Wisdom
Sensual wisdom, also known as intellectual wisdom, is the kind of wisdom we acquire through formal education and rigorous study. This wisdom is rooted in the intellectual pursuit of understanding the natural world, yet it is not about creating something entirely new but rather discovering what has already been established by the Creator. The laws of nature—whether they govern chemistry, physics, or biology—were intricately designed and embedded in the fabric of the universe long before we came to understand them.
For instance, a chemist may mix certain elements to create a new compound, but in reality, they are uncovering and harnessing the properties that have existed since the beginning of time. The wisdom they employ is in recognizing these patterns and principles, not in bringing them into existence. This discovery process has led to remarkable advancements that have significantly improved our quality of life. The very computer on which I am writing this article is a testament to the power of sensual wisdom. Through the application of intellectual wisdom, humanity has unlocked incredible potential, enabling communication across the globe, advancements in medicine, and innovations that have transformed our daily lives.
However, despite its many benefits, sensual wisdom has its limitations. It is confined to the natural realm and is often constrained by the finite understanding of the human mind. While it can unveil the mechanics of how the world operates, it does not provide answers to the deeper questions of purpose, meaning, or the ultimate origin of these natural laws. Moreover, as we delve deeper into intellectual exploration, we often encounter contradictions and paradoxes that challenge our understanding. For every answer discovered, new questions arise, highlighting the inherent limits of this form of wisdom.
Jesus alluded to this kind of wisdom when He remarked, “The sons of this world are wiser than the sons of God” (Luke 16:8). He acknowledged the shrewdness and practicality that sensual wisdom can offer, particularly in navigating the temporal world. Yet, the Apostle Paul reminds us of its ultimate futility, stating, "We do, however, speak a message of wisdom among the mature, but not the wisdom of this age or of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing" (1 Corinthians 2:6). While sensual wisdom is invaluable for understanding and manipulating the world around us, it is insufficient for grasping the eternal truths that transcend our physical existence.
In summary, sensual wisdom is a powerful tool for discovery, allowing us to unlock the mysteries of the natural world that have been present since creation. Yet, as we marvel at its achievements, we must also recognize its inherent limitations and the need for a higher wisdom that addresses the spiritual and eternal dimensions of life.
Demonic wisdom
Demonic wisdom originates from the underworld, and its allure has captivated many through occultism, Scientology, and other practices that promise hidden knowledge and power. This wisdom is not merely a higher form of earthly or sensual wisdom; it is something altogether darker and more dangerous. The Bible offers stern warnings about this type of wisdom, often portraying it as a seductive woman in the book of Proverbs, who uses persuasive words to lead countless souls to their doom by luring them into her bed and her house is depicted as the road to Sheol, descending to the chambers of death.
This dark wisdom is also referenced in Job 28:14, where it is described as "the deep." The "deep" here does not refer to the sea or the depths of the earth but rather to something concealed beneath layers of deception, hidden from the human eye. The term "occultism" itself originates from the Latin word "occultus," meaning concealed or hidden. This demonic wisdom, much like the deep, is shrouded in mystery, promising enlightenment and power to those who seek it. However, beneath its surface lies a layer of darkness that many who delve into it never escape. It is a wisdom that appeals to the desire for power, fame, and prosperity, and throughout history, many rulers and men of renown have sought it out to gain influence and control. Satan, the master of this wisdom, offers it to those willing to bow down and worship him, enticing them with promises of wealth, fame, and success.
Yet, this wisdom is a double-edged sword. While it may bring temporary gains, it ultimately leads to destruction. The Bible makes it clear that those who embrace demonic wisdom are on a path to ruin. Though they may achieve worldly success and recognition, their end is often marked by tragedy and despair. The fame and prosperity that come with this wisdom are fleeting, and the darkness that underlies it eventually consumes those who rely on it. Satan gives this wisdom freely to those who are willing to trade their souls, but the price is always too high.
In short, demonic wisdom is a seductive force that offers power and knowledge hidden from the human eye. It has its roots in the underworld and is accessed through occult practices. While it promises much, it conceals a darkness that many do not recover from. Those who seek it may find temporary success, but they ultimately face a tragic end. The Bible warns us against this wisdom, urging us to steer clear of its allure and instead seek the true wisdom that comes from God.
If you doubt this, consider the story of Adam and Eve in Genesis 3. Eve believed that eating the forbidden fruit would make her wiser, but she soon realized that such wisdom was deceitful, perishable and with it came lots of unwanted darkness - including death. As with everything else that Satan offers, it seemed to make sense until they realized they were naked—stripped of all dignity and left in shame.
Heavenly wisdom
This is the highest form of wisdom and it comes directly from God. No textbook or human being can bestow it upon you, and even old age does not guarantee it. It is a gift of the Holy Spirit, and its characteristics are evident to all. The twenty-eighth chapter of the book of Job examines this wisdom in detail, concluding that only God knows the way to it and reserves it for those who fear Him. I must stress that this wisdom is available to all who draw nearer to God and is different from the word of wisdom expressed in 1 Corinthians 12:8.
In the sacred texts of the Bible, we find a roadmap to heavenly wisdom—an invitation to embark on a journey of profound understanding and spiritual insight. Proverbs 9:10 declares that "the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the holy one is understanding" setting a foundational principle that transcends mere intellectual prowess, academic accolades, or the passage of time. It challenges us to ask: Do we truly acknowledge the existence of God—the architect of all creation, both visible and invisible? If so, then embracing the fear of God is the first step toward acquiring true wisdom, and second to it, is gaining knowledge from the Bible.
But what does it mean to fear God? It’s not akin to the dread one might feel when encountering a ferocious animal. The fear of the Lord is a profound reverence and awe toward God, rooted in the depths of the heart (Isaiah 6:5). It is a humble posture of submission, acknowledging God's sovereignty and authority over all things, including our own lives (Joshua 24:14). When we fear God, we are constantly mindful of His presence and commands. We carefully consider every thought, knowing that God hears our innermost desires and intentions and that before Him, thoughts are louder than spoken words (Psalms 139:2). We weigh every word we speak, aware that we will be held accountable for them (Matthew 12:36), and we understand that every action we take will be judged accordingly (Ecclesiastes 12:14).
Since the Lord is the source of wisdom (Proverbs 2:6), it behooves us to revere Him and humble ourselves before Him so that we may receive wisdom from His mouth. Any wisdom acquired from sources other than the fear of God will not endure, for it is a product of creatures rather than the Creator. Therefore, fear God and follow His teachings, for this will give you good understanding (Proverbs 9:10), which in turn will make you wise (Psalms 111:10).
Conclusion
In conclusion, wisdom is a multifaceted concept that extends far beyond the boundaries of mere knowledge or intellectual achievement. In a world where education and intelligence are celebrated, true wisdom remains a rare and precious commodity, often overlooked in the pursuit of earthly success. We have explored the different types of wisdom—earthly, sensual, demonic, and heavenly—each offering its own insights and challenges. Earthly wisdom, rooted in common sense and life experience, provides practical guidance but is limited by the natural world. Sensual wisdom, derived from intellectual pursuits, uncovers the laws of nature but falls short of revealing deeper spiritual truths. Demonic wisdom, though powerful and alluring, leads to darkness and destruction, offering temporary gains at the cost of eternal loss.
Ultimately, it is heavenly wisdom, the gift of God, that stands apart as the most valuable and enduring. This wisdom, grounded in the fear of the Lord and a deep reverence for His word and authority, leads to a life of true fulfillment and meaning. As we navigate the complexities of life, let us strive to seek this divine wisdom above all, for it alone can guide us through the challenges of this world and into the eternal light of God’s truth. May we not be deceived by the allure of worldly wisdom, but instead, pursue the wisdom that comes from above, which brings life, peace, and the favour of God.