Wisdom Personified

The third section of the Old Testament in English is called the Wisdom Literature, comprised of the books of Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Solomon.  To some, the Wisdom Literature section is an interruption to the expansive narrative of redemption that began in Genesis and will ultimately finish in Revelation. However, not every interruption is harmful; good interruptions are when God intervenes with something significant. The Wisdom Books transport the reader out of the grand redemption narrative for a moment to consider some important questions on the minds of God’s people both then and now. Questions like: What does it mean to live wisely in God’s world? What can I hope for in my lifetime? How do I raise my family? How do I develop the necessary life skills? How do I deal with difficult people? Like an artist who needs to color in their masterpiece, God is coloring in the practical details of what it looks like to live well. In staying with the language of a narrative, allow the Wisdom Book to become fictional characters you might meet as you strive to live well.

Job is the quiet, older man who has experienced a great deal in his lifetime. He used to be cynical and bitter, but he has matured over the years and now finds peace in God. He has a deep, sophisticated faith in God and believes that God is always trustworthy. He has a sage-like feel to his wisdom.

Psalms is an extrovert who often rides hard on his emotions; he might praise God one moment and then complain shortly thereafter. He is deeply spiritual: bold in prayer, profound in meditation on God, and gifted at transforming his cries into poetry.

Proverbs is a young teacher, one who is idealistic, optimistic, and very smart. She offers expert advice on business decisions, having good friends, and raising a family. Wisdom in the Book of Proverbs is personified as a woman, Lady Wisdom. If one follows her wisdom, then life will work out well.

Ecclesiastes is a middle-aged critic who can debate with you on almost any topic. He is disenchanting because he has seen some things go well and others go badly. He concludes that things are not as simplistic as he initially thought when he was younger. He can’t tolerate people who see things in black and white.

Song of Solomon is a newly married young man. He is enthralled with his wife and her beauty and extols her beauty in poetry. He is enthusiastic about their future. The older couple looks at passion with a bit of wonder and reflection; they are wise in enjoying the gift of marriage that God has given to mankind.