The concept of wisdom is a central theme in the Bible, especially in the books of Wisdom and Poetry such as Proverbs. When we ask, "What is the beginning of wisdom according to the Bible?" we are delving into one of the most profound and foundational questions of biblical teaching. The answer is succinctly encapsulated in Proverbs 9:10, which says, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding."
To fully grasp this, we need to unpack what "the fear of the Lord" means and how it sets the stage for wisdom. In contemporary language, "fear" often connotes a sense of terror or dread, but in the biblical context, it has a much richer and more nuanced meaning. The Hebrew word used here is "yirah," which can be translated as "awe" or "reverence." It implies a profound respect and recognition of God's majesty, holiness, and authority. This reverence is not merely an emotional response but a foundational attitude that shapes one's entire approach to life.
The fear of the Lord begins with an acknowledgment of who God is. He is the Creator of the universe, the Sustainer of all life, and the ultimate Judge of all actions. Recognizing God's sovereignty and holiness leads to a sense of humility and dependence. In Proverbs 1:7, we read, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction." This verse sets up a contrast between those who revere God and seek His wisdom and those who reject divine instruction.
Wisdom, in the biblical sense, is not merely intellectual or philosophical insight. It is deeply practical and moral. It involves making choices that align with God's will and character. Proverbs 2:6-9 elaborates on this by stating, "For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding. He holds success in store for the upright, he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless, for he guards the course of the just and protects the way of his faithful ones. Then you will understand what is right and just and fair—every good path."
The "fear of the Lord" is thus the foundation upon which true wisdom is built. It is the starting point that leads to a life of righteousness, justice, and integrity. This reverence for God compels us to seek His guidance in all areas of life, recognizing that our own understanding is limited and often flawed. Proverbs 3:5-6 advises, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight."
This dependence on God's wisdom is beautifully illustrated in the life of Solomon, the author of many of the Proverbs. When Solomon became king, he sought God's wisdom above all else. In 1 Kings 3:7-9, Solomon prays, "Now, Lord my God, you have made your servant king in place of my father David. But I am only a little child and do not know how to carry out my duties. Your servant is here among the people you have chosen, a great people, too numerous to count or number. So give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong. For who is able to govern this great people of yours?" God honored Solomon's request because it stemmed from a place of humility and reverence.
Moreover, the fear of the Lord is not just the beginning of wisdom; it is also its sustaining force. Proverbs 14:27 states, "The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life, turning a person from the snares of death." This verse underscores that reverence for God is a continual source of life and protection. It keeps us on the right path and guards us against destructive choices.
This theme is echoed throughout the Wisdom Literature. In Ecclesiastes 12:13, the Teacher concludes his exploration of life's meaning with these words: "Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind." Again, we see that the fear of the Lord is the foundation for a meaningful and purposeful life.
In the New Testament, this concept is further developed. Jesus Himself embodied perfect wisdom, and His teachings often pointed back to the importance of reverence for God. In Matthew 7:24-25, Jesus says, "Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock." The "rock" here can be understood as the solid foundation of reverence for God and obedience to His word.
The Apostle Paul also emphasizes the importance of divine wisdom in his letters. In Colossians 2:2-3, he writes, "My goal is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge." Paul points to Christ as the ultimate source of wisdom, further reinforcing that true wisdom begins with a relationship with God.
The early Church Fathers also echoed this sentiment. Augustine of Hippo, in his work "Confessions," wrote extensively about the importance of fearing God as the foundation of wisdom. He stated, "Thou hast made us for thyself, O Lord, and our heart is restless until it finds its rest in thee." Augustine recognized that true wisdom and contentment are found in a right relationship with God, marked by reverence and awe.
In summary, the beginning of wisdom according to the Bible is the fear of the Lord. This foundational attitude of reverence and awe towards God shapes our understanding, guides our actions, and leads us to true wisdom. It is a theme that runs through the entire biblical narrative, from the Old Testament to the New Testament, and is affirmed by the teachings of Jesus, the writings of the apostles, and the reflections of early Christian thinkers. This reverence for God is not just the starting point but the sustaining force of a wise and righteous life.
