The Identity of Wisdom 

Scripture Reading: Proverbs 9:1-6.

Memory Verse: "But whoso hearkeneth unto me shall dwell safely, and shall be quiet from fear of evil." Proverbs 1:33.

Weekly Reading: Proverbs 3:27-6:11.

Introduction: King Solomon referred to wisdom as a woman. We might suppose that when God bestowed Solomon with a highly unusual portion of wisdom and understanding, Solomon became so deeply involved with the wonders of his new gift that it took on personality. When wisdom speaks for itself under the power of Solomon's deep revelations, it says some incredible things. Not only could we say that Solomon had a "relationship" with wisdom, but she calls out to tell us that she wants a relationship with us as well. The King's intimacy with wisdom may be why he spoke of it as a woman.
  Look at the qualities wisdom describes of itself found in Proverbs 8:12-21:
  1) discernment . . . v. 12
  2) hates evil ways & attitudes . . . v. 13
  3) sound counsel . . . v. 14
  4) understanding (arranging) . . . v. 14
  5) strength . . . v. 14
  6) foundation of good leadership . . . v. 15-16
  7) heart of love . . . v. 17
  8) accessible to the sincere seeker . . . v. 17
  9) durable riches and righteousness . . . v. 18
10) fruit is valuable . . . v. 19
11) leads in righteousness (doesn't push) . . . v. 20
12) leads down the center of the path (balance) . . . v. 20
13) brings prosperity . . . v. 21
14) brings fulfillment . . . v. 21
  It seems difficult to imagine wisdom as a person. Wisdom itself is intangible, has no physical properties, and cannot be discerned with the five natural senses. Yet, if wisdom has all the above characteristics, then it must have some personified identity. For wisdom to have personality would require that one person contain all wisdom. We would personally relate to the all-wise tangible person, and in him find the person of wisdom spoken of in Proverbs chapter 8.

Questions for Study:

1. When was the beginning of wisdom? Proverbs 8:22-25.

2. Did wisdom come before the creation? Proverbs 8:26-31.

3. What are the consequences of accepting and obeying wisdom? Proverbs 8:32-35.

4. If we reject wisdom, what do we love? Proverbs 8:36.

5. Who told us He was "the life" in the New Testament? John 11:25; John 14:6.

6. Who does the apostle Paul tell us is wisdom? 1 Corinthians 1:30.

7. What provisions has wisdom made? Proverbs 9:1-3.

8. Wisdom has seven pillars. What were the seven spirits that were to rest upon Christ? Isaiah 11:1-2.