What is wisdom literature?

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

Wisdom literature is a genre of literature that consists of statements by sages and wise men that teach about life, virtue, and the nature of God. Ancient Egypt and Ancient Greece produced some well-known works, such as Instructions of Kagemni, Maxims of Ptahhotep, Works and Days by Hesiod, and Meditations by Marcus Aurelius. However, the most famous examples of wisdom literature are found in the Bible.

Unlike prophets or priests, the sages who wrote wisdom literature in the Bible shared common-sense guidance, rooted in observation and experience, aiming to foster righteousness, justice, and equity in society. Key books include Job, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon, and parts of Psalms. The New Testament encourages believers to seek wisdom from God, who generously provides it to those who ask. Living wisely, based on this literature, helps us navigate life with clarity, honor God, and positively influence others while trusting His guidance in a broken world.

FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT

• Job, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon, and parts of Psalms all belong to the genre of wisdom literature. The book of Ruth is also included in the wisdom literature in the Hebrew Bible.
• Wisdom literature differs from other books in the Old Testament in that the authors were sages, rather than prophets or priests. Priests and prophets typically dealt with religious and moral concerns (e.g., Ezekiel 22:26; Amos 3:7), whereas sages generally focused on the practical aspects of how to live and the intellectual challenges that arise when contemplating the human experience (Proverbs 1:2–7; Ecclesiastes 1:12–18).
• Sages often used their observations of the natural world, as well as their lived experience, to share common sense thinking and practical solutions. Solomon, the principal writer of Proverbs, states in Proverbs 1:2–4 his purpose in writing the book: "To know wisdom and instruction, to understand words of insight, to receive instruction in wise dealing, in righteousness, justice, and equity; to give prudence to the simple, knowledge and discretion to the youth." The wisdom these sages shared was meant to have practical applications for how all people lived their daily lives. It was not to be reserved for only the intellectuals or well-taught adults but was also for the "simple" and the "youth." The wisdom shared was meant to produce a society filled with righteousness, justice, and equity. Living in the fear of God is where wisdom begins (Proverbs 1:7).

FROM THE NEW TESTAMENT

• In the New Testament, James states, "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him" (James 1:5). Wisdom comes from God, and He desires His people to have it. God has graciously given us His words in the Bible, and that includes the wisdom literature books therein.

IMPLICATIONS FOR TODAY

Living wisely matters because it helps us navigate the complexities and challenges of life with clarity and purpose. When we apply the principles found in the Bible’s wisdom literature, we see the wisdom God has for us. We make decisions that honor God and promote peace, integrity, and healthy relationships. Wisdom guides us to avoid harmful choices and their consequences, leading to a more fulfilling and stable life. It also equips us to handle difficult situations with patience and understanding, reducing unnecessary stress and conflict. Living this way honors God and shows us what life was meant to be like. Although the wisdom in these books is not guaranteed, they reveal an ideal to strive for amid the realities of living in a fallen, broken world.

Living wisely reflects our trust in God and His guidance, rather than in our limited human perspective. In this way, we live according to God’s will, allowing us to experience His blessings and protection. Wisdom shapes not only how we live, but also how we influence others, demonstrating a life grounded in truth and love. In a world full of uncertainty, choosing to live wisely anchors us in a firm foundation and helps us fulfill the purpose God has for each of us.

UNDERSTAND

• Wisdom literature is a biblical genre written by sages who focus on practical life guidance, virtue, and understanding the nature of God.
• Key books of wisdom literature include Job, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon, and parts of Psalms.
• Living wisely according to biblical principles helps us navigate life well, honor God, and positively impact others.

REFLECT

• What does it look like to seek to live wisely in your life?
• How does applying the practical teachings from wisdom literature to your life lead you to better understand life from God’s perspective?
• How does recognizing the difference between prophetic messages and wisdom teachings influence your understanding of God’s Word?

ENGAGE

• How do the practical life lessons in wisdom literature challenge or complement the moral and religious teachings found in the prophets and priests?
• How can wisdom literature impact our community and society to reflect righteousness, justice, and equity today?
• How does the New Testament invitation to ask God for wisdom influence our approach to learning and living out biblical wisdom?