Ideas of Wisdom Found in Job 28, Ecclesiastes, and Proverbs
Ideas of Wisdom found in Job 28, Ecclesiastes, and Proverbs
In pondering on the ideas of wisdom found in Proverbs, Job, and Ecclesiastes, it is apparent that each of these wisdom writings are of significant importance in order to rightfully divide the Holy Scriptures. It seems that Proverbs, Job and Ecclesiastes praise wisdom and emphasize that true wisdom is to fear the Lord. However each of these books causes the reader to take a different perspective in interpreting wisdom literature.
The book of Proverbs seems to be written as a collection of statements and truths combined together so that we may attain wisdom and discipline. Proverbial sayings are intended to provide instruction for upright living and speak of the benefits the Lord has in store for those who are upright. Proverbs 2:7-8 states “He holds victory in store for the upright, he is a shield to those who walk blameless, for he guards the course of the just and protects the way of his faithful ones” (NIV). Proverbs reveals that the Lord gives wisdom if only we turn our ears to it and apply it to our hearts, then we will find favor, love, and prosperity. Proverbs also focuses on the differences between the wise and the follies of the fools, and consequences of right and wrong doings. If an individual reads Proverbs alone, one would be led to think that simply respecting and obeying the Lord, doing what is right, just, and fair will lead to a long life of wealth, health and happiness. On the other hand, for those who live wickedly or foolishly, they will be punished with sickness, poverty, and few or no children.
The book of Job is written more like a story, rather than a collection of statements or wise sayings that one could use for instruction. Although the book of Job praises wisdom as being incomparable and most precious as does Proverbs, it also brings about conflict, and therefore challenges the wisdom spoken of in Proverbs. In the book of Job chapter 28, Job says that wisdom cannot be found
In pondering on the ideas of wisdom found in Proverbs, Job, and Ecclesiastes, it is apparent that each of these wisdom writings are of significant importance in order to rightfully divide the Holy Scriptures. It seems that Proverbs, Job and Ecclesiastes praise wisdom and emphasize that true wisdom is to fear the Lord. However each of these books causes the reader to take a different perspective in interpreting wisdom literature.
The book of Proverbs seems to be written as a collection of statements and truths combined together so that we may attain wisdom and discipline. Proverbial sayings are intended to provide instruction for upright living and speak of the benefits the Lord has in store for those who are upright. Proverbs 2:7-8 states “He holds victory in store for the upright, he is a shield to those who walk blameless, for he guards the course of the just and protects the way of his faithful ones” (NIV). Proverbs reveals that the Lord gives wisdom if only we turn our ears to it and apply it to our hearts, then we will find favor, love, and prosperity. Proverbs also focuses on the differences between the wise and the follies of the fools, and consequences of right and wrong doings. If an individual reads Proverbs alone, one would be led to think that simply respecting and obeying the Lord, doing what is right, just, and fair will lead to a long life of wealth, health and happiness. On the other hand, for those who live wickedly or foolishly, they will be punished with sickness, poverty, and few or no children.
The book of Job is written more like a story, rather than a collection of statements or wise sayings that one could use for instruction. Although the book of Job praises wisdom as being incomparable and most precious as does Proverbs, it also brings about conflict, and therefore challenges the wisdom spoken of in Proverbs. In the book of Job chapter 28, Job says that wisdom cannot be found