Topic
Bible verses about wisdom
In the Bible, wisdom is more than knowledge: it is knowing how to live well before God and other people. Proverbs, Ecclesiastes and Job make up the so-called wisdom literature, and the New Testament takes up the theme in James and in the parables of Jesus. Here are the most searched verses, with the full text and a note on each.
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Selected verses
James 1:5
If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.
Asking God for wisdom, who gives generously to all.
Proverbs 3:5–6
Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
Trusting the LORD instead of leaning only on your own understanding.
Proverbs 9:10
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.
The fear of the LORD as the starting point of wisdom.
Proverbs 4:7
Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.
Getting wisdom as a priority, above other possessions.
Ecclesiastes 3:1
To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:
Discerning the seasons: there is a time for everything.
Matthew 7:24
Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock:
Wisdom means hearing and doing: the house built on the rock.
Frequently asked questions
Which verse talks about asking God for wisdom?
James 1:5: anyone who lacks wisdom should ask God, who gives generously to all.
Who wrote Proverbs?
Tradition credits most of it to Solomon, but the book itself names other authors, such as Agur (chapter 30) and King Lemuel (chapter 31).