A Definition of Wisdom

Here is a definition of wisdom and some beautiful words of wisdom for life and love.

The definition of wisdom that I heard as a child...that of being like 'a wise old owl'...was offered as a way to let us know that a good (or wise) child is a quiet child!

The other common phrase offered was "children should be seen and not heard!"

Here is the poem about the "Wise Old Owl" as I remember it:

A wise old owl lived in an oak
The more he saw the less he spoke
The less he spoke the more he heard.
Why can't we all be like that wise old bird?

Though the owl is associated with wisdom in Greek mythology, and other cultures, owls are an amazing example of God’s handiwork. Their ability to watch and patiently wait defines some of the essence of wisdom.

Here are a few more parts to a comprehensive definition of wisdom:

• Good sense: having or learning the ability to make sensible decisions and judgments based on personal knowledge and experience.
• Wise decisions: Good sense in operational ways such as thinking, judgment, or action.
• Accumulated learning: The sum total of knowledge and experience gained through a lifetime or within a sphere of activity.
• Opinion widely held: Beliefs or attitudes that almost everyone seems to share or express.
• Sayings: The "wisdom of the ages" found in ancient teachings, quotes or sayings.

Since earliest times, wisdom has been celebrated as an ideal. It is a foundation needed in order to live a full, productive and meaningful life.



Wisdom Versus Knowledge

Knowledge and wisdom, far from being one,
Have ofttimes no connection. Knowledge dwells
In heads replete with thoughts of other men;
Wisdom, in minds attentive to their own.
Knowledge, a rude, unprofitable mass,
The mere materials with which wisdom builds,
Till smoothed, and squared, and fitted to its place,
Does but encumber whom it seems to enrich.
Knowledge is proud that he has learned so much;
Wisdom is humble that he knows no more. ~ William Cowper




Beautiful Words of Wisdom

Wisdom Quotes

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