Cowper wrote, “Wisdom and knowledge far from being one, have ofttimes no connection.”
The poet was trying to express the truth that wisdom is superior to knowledge, but in his statement of the difference he went too far. There is bound to be a connection, for although it is possible for men to have knowledge without wisdom, no one can be wise without possessing knowledge. Wisdom makes use of knowledge as mind makes use of matter. It is superior because it is comprehensive. A new-born babe begins life without knowing anything of the world he has entered and without any of the qualities that may come with experience. He cannot possibly be wise until he has knowledge — knowledge of the difference between good and evil, knowledge of the God who has called him into being, and knowledge of the way of life. Wisdom is revealed in the proper use of that which is known. The One who is perfect in wisdom has also the perfection of knowledge.
Wisdom is always good, but there is such a thing as the knowledge of evil. It can never be an advantage to lack wisdom in anything, but there are matters in which it is a blessing not to know.
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Author: Islip Collyer
Keywords: Wisdom, Knowledge, Wisdom and knowledge
Bible reference(s): Prov. 1:20-21, Prov. 2:2, Proverbs 2:6, Prov. 4:7, 1 Cor. 8:1
Source: Principles and Proverbs.
Page indexed by: inWORD Bible Software.