All word studies
Wisdom in the Bible
Wisdom in the Bible is not raw intelligence but skill for living. The Hebrew chokmah is the wisdom of Proverbs — practical, moral, and grounded in the fear of the LORD. The Greek sophia is fulfilled in Christ, 'in whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.'
Greek & Hebrew words
Greek (New Testament)
Key KJV verses
All verses →Proverbs 9:10
“The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.”Read in context
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.”Read in context
Chokmah: skill for life
Chokmah (H2451) is used of Bezalel's craftsmanship as much as Solomon's judgments. Biblical wisdom is hands-on — knowing how to live well in God's world.
Sophia: hidden in Christ
Paul tells the Colossians that all the treasures of sophia (G4678) are hidden in Christ. The wisdom God offers is not detached philosophy but a person to be known.
Frequently asked questions
What is biblical wisdom?
Skillful, righteous living rooted in the fear of the LORD (Proverbs 9:10).
What is the Greek word for wisdom?
Sophia (σοφία, Strong's G4678).