Introduction:
While two of these qualities have been examined previously on the pages of this Blog, (for example in the post of the title WHAT REALLY IS UNDERSTANDING (EDITED)? they have not been collectively examined. As a result, this description is an effort to examine these traits from a spiritual perspective for any valuable insight they may possess for our lives, by examining the Biblical book pf Proverbs* (see footnote) and chapter 9. This book is examined in two parts, the first ten (10) chapters for their focus on these spiritual qualities and the final seven (7) verses, which focus on the benefits that come from possessing these qualities as well as the final outcome for those who show disregard for such qualities, please follow.
These are the Details of Importance:
In the Biblical book of Proverbs 9, the focus is clearly on this subject, which starts by introducing in verse 1) the concept of wisdom as represented by a soundly constructed residence containing not one, two, three, four, five, or even six, but seven pillars (or foundations). When seven is used in scripture it implies perfection, such as in the book Ecclesiastes 11:2, which states that when its in our ability to give, we should give (what’s ours to give), liberally to “seven” (7) and also to eight (8), “for thou knowest not what evil shall be upon the earth, because when “real instead of orchestrated/distressed conditions” type difficulty arises, those who have “invested” in this manner will be taken care of. Therefore, the house built with seven (7) foundations, implies a very soundly built structure. Verse 2) goes on to point out that the residents of a “perfectly” built house represents those who lives are centered on spiritual matters, (described in terms of having a “furnished table”. Verse 3) indicates that those lacking in wisdom have themselves to blame because its available to anyone who seeks it, as previously pointed out in the referenced post “WHAT REALLY IS UNDERSTANDING (EDITED)?”, by indicating in verse 4) that whoever admits their need for “insight” (the “simple”) and seeks it (“turn in hither”); as a result of having sought and obtained wisdom (or “insight” and as described on the pages of this Blog, the "alternate view" as documented in the post IMPLEMENTING THE ALTERNATE VIEW PRACTICALLY) and then desire understanding (“clarity”) have to take action (“turn hither”) to attain it. Verse 5) provides instructions about the second part of the process required to be carried out in order for understanding to be gained, namely, building one’s life with its focus on spiritual matters, (described in terms of “bread”). Verse 6) on the other hand points out that this focus will be successful when non-spiritual matters are set aside (or discarded), to gain the true benefits of understanding, indicting that action on our part is essential because a journey is involved as well as the fact it’s a continuous process, which requires constant vigilance to ensure that non-spiritual matters don’t be allowed to “hinder” the journey embarked upon. Verses 7 and 8) reminds us how futile it is to attempt to instruct those who are indifferent regarding spiritual matters because it will result in needless conflict with such types as oppose to the type of individual who has sought and obtained wisdom who will welcome such as continuous instruction as well as constructive criticism (or one of God's chosen and/or those considered to be part of ISRAEL). While verse 9) goes on to emphasize who has gained wisdom and is offered additional instruction will become even wiser just as teaching a just individual results in increase learning. Verse 10) clearly reminds us where the inception of wisdom begins, namely with respect for God, and only at this point is the concept of knowledge is introduced, as follows: “knowledge of the HOLY is understanding”. This without doubt implies why many lack understanding of the condition, plight and circumstances of others and anything else for that matter, because it implies that deep awareness of spiritual matters leads to understanding (as the call in verse 5 for rebuilding one's life around such, depicted).
The emphasis in verse 10 on the word HOLY instead of just spiritual matters is an indication as to why so very few find gain understanding, namely because of the high price involved in achieving it. This is due to the fact that it is being equated with the knowledge of divine perfection, since it all takes place under wisdom's structure. The Book of Revelation in chapter 15:4 points out that “who shall not fear Thee, o, Lord, and glorify thy name? For only thou art HOLY, for all nations shall come and worship before Thee, for thy judgments are made manifest.” In summary, verse 10 states that a) RESPECT FOR GOD IS THE INCEPTION OF WISDOM and b) KNOWLEDGE OF THE DIVINELY PERFECT (OR HOLY) ONE IS UNDERSTANDING.
The Outlook and Potential Possibilities:
The remainder of the chapter emphasizes the benefits and difficulties that result from possessing wisdom and knowledge as well as the continuous journey that is required in order to attain understanding because perfection is involved and since none of us are perfect a continuous “journey” is involved is striving for the attribute of understanding. Verse 11 states that these select individuals who have gained these very highly prized qualities are promised multiple (or many) days in, which to live out the years of their lives. Verse 12) indicates that those who are in possession of these three (3) critical instruments are in turn expected to inform others, because those who receive much spiritually are responsible for sharing such as received with others unlike those with no interest in spiritual matters, (which should be a tenet to live by for those also with resources “a plenty” as well but sadly such types hoard and even take from others with less than they do to brandish their accumulated possessions to others). Verse 13) compares these latter types to a harlot (or one involved in man’s oldest profession), who goes out of her (or his) way to attract attention to herself (or himself) at every opportunity, as verses 14 & 15) point out by sitting in the doorway to attract as well as in the seats in the high places of the city (again to attract). Finally verses 16 - 18) point out the end point for those who choose not to live their lives with a focus on spiritual matters; death and destruction.
Clearly, this outline if followed demonstrates why the attributes; wisdom, knowledge and understanding are described as instruments for “life”, namely due to the fact that these apparently simple but intrinsically profound traits hold the keys to truly eventful lives because they NOT ONLY provide us with the proper (or perfect) balance required for hopeful, meaningful, plentiful, purposeful, thankful, thoughtful and successful living BUT ALSO due to the fact that in the Biblical book of Proverbs chapter 3, verse 13 the state of being "happy" is attributed to the man who findeth wisdom and him that getteth understanding. Verse 14, goes on to point out that as an attribute, understanding is better than silver and even the possessing of fine gold. Verse 15, equates understanding with a female first of all and then goes on to point out that "she" (understanding) is more precious than rubies and all the things that can be desired can't be compared to her (understanding). Verses 16 - 18, state that: 1) length of days are in her (understanding) right hand, 2) riches and honour are in her left hand, 3) her (understanding) ways are ways of pleasantness, 4) all her (understanding) paths are peace, 5) she (understanding) is a tree of life to those them that lay hold upon her (understanding), 6) happy is every one that retaineth her (understanding). Verse 19, points out that GOD by WISDOM founded the earth; by UNDERSTANDING he established the heavens. Finally, verse 20 points out that by His KNOWLEDGE the depths are broken up and the clouds drop down dew.
The Finale:
The central fact relates to the continuous “journey” involved in gaining the true benefits of an understanding perspective, centered on spiritual matters that results in the multiplying of our days in, which to live out the years of our lives in the continuous pursuit of understanding (because none of us are perfect, period) and that knowledge of the HOLY ONE (who alone is divinely perfect) helps us achieve our objectives when we rely on Him. The unique thing that has been introduced is the comparison of the "prized" attribute of understanding to a female and not just any female but a "virtuous" (or wise) female as Proverbs 12:4 points out. The acquisition of these attributes are also being being compared here to a continuous journey to find a "virtuous" female, who is a "crown" to her husband. This very, very, very rare achievement is introduced to demonstrate how challenging this task is because the impossibility of finding such a companion is compared to the difficulties of finding the most treasured of these attributes, through, which the heavens were established, underscoring the rarity of achieving success in the task but if accomplished, would bring much spiritual gratification including added "days" (or long life) to the individual, clearly highlighting why these attributes are depicted as instruments for "life". The closest we can comprehend to what He is instructing us here, is what the Biblical book of Genesis in chapter 5 described about those who lived on earth initially, whose years ranged from 365 years for Enoch, who is stated to have "walked with God" for 365 years, who in turn took him and he never saw death, to Methuselah who lived for 969 years and died; and even these aren't described as possessing understanding, with the closest who came to possessing this quality being Enoch, who honoured God in his "life" and then it can only be concluded that because of his father's example, Mathuselah followed in the example of the type of life his father, Enoch lived and he was blessed with the longest life of any Biblical character. What an example and testament to the challenge ahead indeed, but at the same time God has made us aware of, (as He does not hide anything from us). He then provided us with those initial examples to symbolically depict to us what long days could be comprised of, which only goes to show the extent to. which He cares about us even in the midst of the overwhelming circumstances that confront us, if we permit Him to direct the innermost details of our lives, in all fairness.
Background To The Conclusion:
While understanding specifically has been Biblically compared to a very rare female of unmatched qualities as outlined in Proverbs chapter 3, verses 13 - 19, and requires the journey of many days to obtain because divine perfection is involved in this attribute; however, even though it was previously pointed out that such an individual is not likely to be found because of the unusual qualities such an individual needed to possess, a glimpse is provided into the type of female who comparatively comes close to being considered such as defined in Proverbs chapter 31: where verse 10, points out “Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.” Verse 11, goes on to state “The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil.” Verse 12, points out, “She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life.” Verse 13 states, “She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands.” Verse 14 points out, “She is like the merchants’ ships; she bringeth her food from afar.” Verse 15 also states, “She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens.” Verse 16 points out, “She considereth a field, and buyeth it: with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard.” Verse 17 states, “She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms.” Verse 18 points out, “She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night.” Verse 19, goes on to state, “She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff.” Verse 20 describes how “She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea she reacheth forth her hands to the needy. Verse 21, points out, “She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothe with scarlet.” Verse 22 states, “She maketh coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple.” Verse 23, points out, “Her husband is known in the gates, when he siteth among the elders of the land.” Verse 25 points out, “Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.” Verse 26 states, “She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.” Verse 27 emphasizes that, “She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.” Verse 28 points out, “Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.” Verse 29 states, “Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excelleth them all.” In summary, verse 30 points out, “Favor is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that fareth the Lord, she shall be praised. Finally, verse 31 makes it clear to, “Give her the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates.”
Conclusion/Outcome:
This glimpse into what type of qualities this rare female would possess to be comparative with understanding indeed, such an individual, would be the “picture of perfection” and while the likelihood of finding such an ideal individual would be very, very, very remote, the mere fact that the description is given is an indication that it’s not completely impossible as nothing entrusted to Him ever is even though extremely difficult and reliance on His direction will never fail if the acquisition of understanding complemented with a companion of such unusual qualities is to be the object of an individual’s life, along with the added blessing of such a rare individual is His will for the individual who attains the unusual but "prized" attribute of understanding, only the divinely perfect ONE could make what’s impossible for us to achieve a definitely possible attainment, since for Him nothing is unachievable, He assures us (His chosen) of that, according to His will.
* Footnote:
While this Biblical Book is beiing quoted here to gain a glimpse into what is remotely involved in this complex subject, care must be exercised when attempting to use the information contained in its pages without proper direction, due to distortions included in this text over the years, to present what some woud like this subject to contain for lack of any meaningful relationship with the Creator of the universe, such that only divine guidance can help to unravel the many innacuraces contained here. However, for the purposes of this subject mattter, the point of reference is the fact that understanding in not possible without devine guidance, and His direction/instruction is also needed to demonstrate its application in the pursuit of knowledge.
While two of these qualities have been examined previously on the pages of this Blog, (for example in the post of the title WHAT REALLY IS UNDERSTANDING (EDITED)? they have not been collectively examined. As a result, this description is an effort to examine these traits from a spiritual perspective for any valuable insight they may possess for our lives, by examining the Biblical book pf Proverbs* (see footnote) and chapter 9. This book is examined in two parts, the first ten (10) chapters for their focus on these spiritual qualities and the final seven (7) verses, which focus on the benefits that come from possessing these qualities as well as the final outcome for those who show disregard for such qualities, please follow.
These are the Details of Importance:
In the Biblical book of Proverbs 9, the focus is clearly on this subject, which starts by introducing in verse 1) the concept of wisdom as represented by a soundly constructed residence containing not one, two, three, four, five, or even six, but seven pillars (or foundations). When seven is used in scripture it implies perfection, such as in the book Ecclesiastes 11:2, which states that when its in our ability to give, we should give (what’s ours to give), liberally to “seven” (7) and also to eight (8), “for thou knowest not what evil shall be upon the earth, because when “real instead of orchestrated/distressed conditions” type difficulty arises, those who have “invested” in this manner will be taken care of. Therefore, the house built with seven (7) foundations, implies a very soundly built structure. Verse 2) goes on to point out that the residents of a “perfectly” built house represents those who lives are centered on spiritual matters, (described in terms of having a “furnished table”. Verse 3) indicates that those lacking in wisdom have themselves to blame because its available to anyone who seeks it, as previously pointed out in the referenced post “WHAT REALLY IS UNDERSTANDING (EDITED)?”, by indicating in verse 4) that whoever admits their need for “insight” (the “simple”) and seeks it (“turn in hither”); as a result of having sought and obtained wisdom (or “insight” and as described on the pages of this Blog, the "alternate view" as documented in the post IMPLEMENTING THE ALTERNATE VIEW PRACTICALLY) and then desire understanding (“clarity”) have to take action (“turn hither”) to attain it. Verse 5) provides instructions about the second part of the process required to be carried out in order for understanding to be gained, namely, building one’s life with its focus on spiritual matters, (described in terms of “bread”). Verse 6) on the other hand points out that this focus will be successful when non-spiritual matters are set aside (or discarded), to gain the true benefits of understanding, indicting that action on our part is essential because a journey is involved as well as the fact it’s a continuous process, which requires constant vigilance to ensure that non-spiritual matters don’t be allowed to “hinder” the journey embarked upon. Verses 7 and 8) reminds us how futile it is to attempt to instruct those who are indifferent regarding spiritual matters because it will result in needless conflict with such types as oppose to the type of individual who has sought and obtained wisdom who will welcome such as continuous instruction as well as constructive criticism (or one of God's chosen and/or those considered to be part of ISRAEL). While verse 9) goes on to emphasize who has gained wisdom and is offered additional instruction will become even wiser just as teaching a just individual results in increase learning. Verse 10) clearly reminds us where the inception of wisdom begins, namely with respect for God, and only at this point is the concept of knowledge is introduced, as follows: “knowledge of the HOLY is understanding”. This without doubt implies why many lack understanding of the condition, plight and circumstances of others and anything else for that matter, because it implies that deep awareness of spiritual matters leads to understanding (as the call in verse 5 for rebuilding one's life around such, depicted).
The emphasis in verse 10 on the word HOLY instead of just spiritual matters is an indication as to why so very few find gain understanding, namely because of the high price involved in achieving it. This is due to the fact that it is being equated with the knowledge of divine perfection, since it all takes place under wisdom's structure. The Book of Revelation in chapter 15:4 points out that “who shall not fear Thee, o, Lord, and glorify thy name? For only thou art HOLY, for all nations shall come and worship before Thee, for thy judgments are made manifest.” In summary, verse 10 states that a) RESPECT FOR GOD IS THE INCEPTION OF WISDOM and b) KNOWLEDGE OF THE DIVINELY PERFECT (OR HOLY) ONE IS UNDERSTANDING.
The Outlook and Potential Possibilities:
The remainder of the chapter emphasizes the benefits and difficulties that result from possessing wisdom and knowledge as well as the continuous journey that is required in order to attain understanding because perfection is involved and since none of us are perfect a continuous “journey” is involved is striving for the attribute of understanding. Verse 11 states that these select individuals who have gained these very highly prized qualities are promised multiple (or many) days in, which to live out the years of their lives. Verse 12) indicates that those who are in possession of these three (3) critical instruments are in turn expected to inform others, because those who receive much spiritually are responsible for sharing such as received with others unlike those with no interest in spiritual matters, (which should be a tenet to live by for those also with resources “a plenty” as well but sadly such types hoard and even take from others with less than they do to brandish their accumulated possessions to others). Verse 13) compares these latter types to a harlot (or one involved in man’s oldest profession), who goes out of her (or his) way to attract attention to herself (or himself) at every opportunity, as verses 14 & 15) point out by sitting in the doorway to attract as well as in the seats in the high places of the city (again to attract). Finally verses 16 - 18) point out the end point for those who choose not to live their lives with a focus on spiritual matters; death and destruction.
Clearly, this outline if followed demonstrates why the attributes; wisdom, knowledge and understanding are described as instruments for “life”, namely due to the fact that these apparently simple but intrinsically profound traits hold the keys to truly eventful lives because they NOT ONLY provide us with the proper (or perfect) balance required for hopeful, meaningful, plentiful, purposeful, thankful, thoughtful and successful living BUT ALSO due to the fact that in the Biblical book of Proverbs chapter 3, verse 13 the state of being "happy" is attributed to the man who findeth wisdom and him that getteth understanding. Verse 14, goes on to point out that as an attribute, understanding is better than silver and even the possessing of fine gold. Verse 15, equates understanding with a female first of all and then goes on to point out that "she" (understanding) is more precious than rubies and all the things that can be desired can't be compared to her (understanding). Verses 16 - 18, state that: 1) length of days are in her (understanding) right hand, 2) riches and honour are in her left hand, 3) her (understanding) ways are ways of pleasantness, 4) all her (understanding) paths are peace, 5) she (understanding) is a tree of life to those them that lay hold upon her (understanding), 6) happy is every one that retaineth her (understanding). Verse 19, points out that GOD by WISDOM founded the earth; by UNDERSTANDING he established the heavens. Finally, verse 20 points out that by His KNOWLEDGE the depths are broken up and the clouds drop down dew.
The Finale:
The central fact relates to the continuous “journey” involved in gaining the true benefits of an understanding perspective, centered on spiritual matters that results in the multiplying of our days in, which to live out the years of our lives in the continuous pursuit of understanding (because none of us are perfect, period) and that knowledge of the HOLY ONE (who alone is divinely perfect) helps us achieve our objectives when we rely on Him. The unique thing that has been introduced is the comparison of the "prized" attribute of understanding to a female and not just any female but a "virtuous" (or wise) female as Proverbs 12:4 points out. The acquisition of these attributes are also being being compared here to a continuous journey to find a "virtuous" female, who is a "crown" to her husband. This very, very, very rare achievement is introduced to demonstrate how challenging this task is because the impossibility of finding such a companion is compared to the difficulties of finding the most treasured of these attributes, through, which the heavens were established, underscoring the rarity of achieving success in the task but if accomplished, would bring much spiritual gratification including added "days" (or long life) to the individual, clearly highlighting why these attributes are depicted as instruments for "life". The closest we can comprehend to what He is instructing us here, is what the Biblical book of Genesis in chapter 5 described about those who lived on earth initially, whose years ranged from 365 years for Enoch, who is stated to have "walked with God" for 365 years, who in turn took him and he never saw death, to Methuselah who lived for 969 years and died; and even these aren't described as possessing understanding, with the closest who came to possessing this quality being Enoch, who honoured God in his "life" and then it can only be concluded that because of his father's example, Mathuselah followed in the example of the type of life his father, Enoch lived and he was blessed with the longest life of any Biblical character. What an example and testament to the challenge ahead indeed, but at the same time God has made us aware of, (as He does not hide anything from us). He then provided us with those initial examples to symbolically depict to us what long days could be comprised of, which only goes to show the extent to. which He cares about us even in the midst of the overwhelming circumstances that confront us, if we permit Him to direct the innermost details of our lives, in all fairness.
Background To The Conclusion:
While understanding specifically has been Biblically compared to a very rare female of unmatched qualities as outlined in Proverbs chapter 3, verses 13 - 19, and requires the journey of many days to obtain because divine perfection is involved in this attribute; however, even though it was previously pointed out that such an individual is not likely to be found because of the unusual qualities such an individual needed to possess, a glimpse is provided into the type of female who comparatively comes close to being considered such as defined in Proverbs chapter 31: where verse 10, points out “Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.” Verse 11, goes on to state “The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil.” Verse 12, points out, “She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life.” Verse 13 states, “She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands.” Verse 14 points out, “She is like the merchants’ ships; she bringeth her food from afar.” Verse 15 also states, “She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens.” Verse 16 points out, “She considereth a field, and buyeth it: with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard.” Verse 17 states, “She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms.” Verse 18 points out, “She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night.” Verse 19, goes on to state, “She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff.” Verse 20 describes how “She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea she reacheth forth her hands to the needy. Verse 21, points out, “She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothe with scarlet.” Verse 22 states, “She maketh coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple.” Verse 23, points out, “Her husband is known in the gates, when he siteth among the elders of the land.” Verse 25 points out, “Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.” Verse 26 states, “She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.” Verse 27 emphasizes that, “She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.” Verse 28 points out, “Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.” Verse 29 states, “Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excelleth them all.” In summary, verse 30 points out, “Favor is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that fareth the Lord, she shall be praised. Finally, verse 31 makes it clear to, “Give her the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates.”
Conclusion/Outcome:
This glimpse into what type of qualities this rare female would possess to be comparative with understanding indeed, such an individual, would be the “picture of perfection” and while the likelihood of finding such an ideal individual would be very, very, very remote, the mere fact that the description is given is an indication that it’s not completely impossible as nothing entrusted to Him ever is even though extremely difficult and reliance on His direction will never fail if the acquisition of understanding complemented with a companion of such unusual qualities is to be the object of an individual’s life, along with the added blessing of such a rare individual is His will for the individual who attains the unusual but "prized" attribute of understanding, only the divinely perfect ONE could make what’s impossible for us to achieve a definitely possible attainment, since for Him nothing is unachievable, He assures us (His chosen) of that, according to His will.
* Footnote:
While this Biblical Book is beiing quoted here to gain a glimpse into what is remotely involved in this complex subject, care must be exercised when attempting to use the information contained in its pages without proper direction, due to distortions included in this text over the years, to present what some woud like this subject to contain for lack of any meaningful relationship with the Creator of the universe, such that only divine guidance can help to unravel the many innacuraces contained here. However, for the purposes of this subject mattter, the point of reference is the fact that understanding in not possible without devine guidance, and His direction/instruction is also needed to demonstrate its application in the pursuit of knowledge.
2 comments:
Only those involved in the continuous pursuit of possessing these profound qualities; wisdom, understanding and knowledge are truly able to recognize the "perfect" BALANCE required for meaningful, successful living, and then use them as the basis for determining the appropriate type of assistance required for a given situation because only ONE can help us achieve objectives involving anything that's related to perfection, when He is relied on, there is no other path for achieving this desired outcome. There may be pathways to achieve other outcomes, which some may consider important in their estimation, but none will achieve any outcome comparable to the approach described above as all else relies on man's (or our) approach and the post THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN GOD'S LAW AND MAN'S previously showed how our (man's) approaches in the most important aspect for establishing "order" in our society can't be relied on consistently to provide the appropriate outcomes in all circumstances, because they are not applied fairly. Therefore, if these essential controls can't be relied on, how much more will any other type of methodologies bring about any desired objective, especially the type required in an area as important as a turn-around. Note: all links are available on the COMMENTS Page.
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