Proverbs 21:22
A wise man scaleth the city of the mighty, and casteth down the strength of the confidence thereof.
Original Language Analysis
עִ֣יר
the city
H5892
עִ֣יר
the city
Strong's:
H5892
Word #:
1 of 7
a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)
עָלָ֣ה
man scaleth
H5927
עָלָ֣ה
man scaleth
Strong's:
H5927
Word #:
3 of 7
to ascend, intransitively (be high) or actively (mount); used in a great variety of senses, primary and secondary, literal and figurative
וַ֝יֹּ֗רֶד
and casteth down
H3381
וַ֝יֹּ֗רֶד
and casteth down
Strong's:
H3381
Word #:
5 of 7
to descend (literally, to go downwards; or conventionally to a lower region, as the shore, a boundary, the enemy, etc.; or figuratively, to fall); cau
Historical Context
Ancient warfare included besieging fortified cities. While military strength mattered, clever strategy often determined outcomes—Jericho fell through obedience, not assault.
Questions for Reflection
- Do you rely on your own strength and resources, or do you seek God's wisdom?
- How can you apply strategic wisdom to challenges you face rather than merely trying harder?
Analysis & Commentary
The wise man achieves what brute force cannot—he 'scaleth the city of the mighty' through strategy and intelligence. Physical strength alone is insufficient; wisdom provides superior advantage. The 'strength' trusted by the mighty becomes their downfall when opposed by superior tactics. This affirms wisdom's supremacy over mere power. In spiritual warfare, believers overcome not through human might but through God's wisdom and power (2 Corinthians 10:4). The principle extends broadly: wisdom solves problems that force cannot, wins conflicts that violence escalates, and achieves objectives that coercion attempts. Wisdom harnesses strength effectively; without wisdom, strength often produces destruction.