I've been thinking a lot lately about what it means to be "wise" in the scriptures. In some places, we are warned about the dangers of "thinking" that you are wise. Being involved in graduate school and the world of academia has really made me realize how dangerous it is to "think" that you are wise. I also have had a recent experience which has made me think a lot about true wisdom in relation to the gospel.
In the scriptures, it seems like there are also two definitions of the word "wise" right in the scriptures. The first definition of "wise" is a lot like the idea of "thinking" that you are wise - they are the people who are puffed up in their learning, wisdom, etc. (see 2 Nephi 9:42). It is explained here that these people must come down in the depths of humility or the Lord will not open the door to them.
Only the people who consider themselves as "fools before God" will be let in - which the Lord defines as true wisdom in the following verse (2 Nephi 9:43). These people are "wise and prudent," and the happiness which is prepared for them will be hidden from those that are puffed up in wisdom.
I never had connected wisdom with humility before. I have thought of wisdom in regards to prudence, temperance, and true knowledge, but I never had thought about humility. I don't know why I hadn't made the connection before, because I often think of humility as an opposite to "prideful wisdom." Therefore, it makes sense to me that humility should be part of true wisdom - in order for an individual to be truly wise, he must accept that he does not know everything, nor can he figure everything out. The logic and mind of God is far beyond the capacity of our mortal minds. We can only hope to one day attain that full knowledge and understanding.
Posts
4 comments:
M, you might as well educate us art neophytes a little with your blog. What painting is this, and who did it?
My dear little neophyte,
This painting is not at all famous, so there is no reason why you should recognize it. It is called "Allegory of Divine Wisdom" by Luca Giordano. It's hangs in the National Gallery in London. This is what the National Gallery's website eloquently says about the piece:
This modello, or oil study, was made in preparation for the ceiling of the Library in the Palazzo Medici Riccardi in Florence and shows the human intellect as a kneeling youth released from the bonds of ignorance. Attended by Mathematics, who gives him wings, and Philosophy, who holds out a mirror, and Theology, he gazes up at the enthroned figure with globe and sceptre who represents Wisdom. The subject is based on a line from Petrarch's 'Rime'.
goatess, you are so spiritual! i love yoU!
i like your new format.
Post a Comment