Hebrew Wisdom: Parallels for a Godly and Fullfilled Life

Hebrew Wisdom: Parallels for a Godly and

Fulfilled Life

Liberty University

Sherri Hull

Prof. Mitchell

This paper was prepared for Bible 105-C18,

Taught by: Jason Mitchell

The Hebrew teachings of practical wisdom are found throughout Scripture. Scripture verses in the book of Proverbs contain practical truths by which people can balance their lives on as a foundation for living a purposeful and fulfilled life. True wisdom comes from balancing your life on a foundation built on God. “In ancient society the ability to make wise decisions in all of life’s practical matters was highly esteemed,” according to Hindson &Yates within the book The Essence of the Old Testament: A Survey, (2012, p. 259). Not only was being able to make wise decisions good for the person, it was respected and it set the example of how living a godly life is, living wisely. In essence a life characterized by wisdom and diligence is pleasing to God and brings peace, joy, and fulfillment while we are on Earth; while a life characterized by laziness and folly leads to despair, chaos, and emptiness.

The book of Proverbs was written in short poetic sentences that reveal wisdom in a concise and lyrical manner that attracts the reader. Hebrew wisdom also begins with a fundamental fact, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction” (Proverbs 1:7, New Kings James Version). This represents those that believe they can live a fulfilled life by their own means. This is where folly represents the fool that refuses instruction. The parallel of wisdom and folly (Proverbs 1:7) sets the ground for a strong foundation referring to true wisdom (NKJV). For, if we do not fear the Lord and His consequences, then what motivation would there be listen to His Word and obey. “Life is full of choices. No one can get through life without being faced with choices and bad decisions can often result in...