Proverbs 8:14
Counsel is mine, and sound wisdom: I am understanding; I have strength.
Original Language Analysis
Cross References
Ecclesiastes 7:19Wisdom strengtheneth the wise more than ten mighty men which are in the city.Isaiah 40:14With whom took he counsel, and who instructed him, and taught him in the path of judgment, and taught him knowledge, and shewed to him the way of understanding?Isaiah 9:6For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.Colossians 2:3In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.Proverbs 24:5A wise man is strong; yea, a man of knowledge increaseth strength.Romans 1:22Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools,1 Corinthians 1:24But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God.1 Corinthians 1:30But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption:John 1:9That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.
Historical Context
Wisdom's self-description continues, claiming comprehensive resources for human flourishing. Ancient Near Eastern wisdom literature recognized that knowing the right way is insufficient without strength to walk it.
Questions for Reflection
- In what areas do you lack either understanding of what's right or strength to do it?
- How does Christ as wisdom of God provide both knowledge and power for godly living?
Analysis & Commentary
Counsel is mine, and sound wisdom; I am understanding; I have strength. Wisdom claims to possess counsel (etsah - advice, purpose), sound wisdom (tushiyah - enduring wisdom), understanding (binah - discernment), and strength (gevurah - might, power). This fourfold claim encompasses both intellectual and practical dimensions - wisdom provides both right understanding and power to execute right action. This refutes the false dichotomy between knowledge and power.