The Rooted Podcast

What is wisdom in the Bible? – Proverbs E1

The Rooted Podcast

Show Notes

What does it mean to have wisdom? Why should we pursue it and how can we put it into practice?

In this episode, we explore how wisdom is presented in the Bible. With particular reference to Proverbs, we discuss the contrast between biblical wisdom and current ideas about self-help. We look at the relationship between age, experience and wisdom, and how wisdom is passed on. We discuss the need to see wisdom modelled in community and explore how Jesus both taught and embodied wisdom. We ask whether the proverbs should be read as general guiding principles or direct promises from God. The conversation closes with thoughts about the superior value of wisdom and character over head knowledge, as well as the uniquely hopeful message Christians have for people asking how to live well today. Timestamps

(00:00) - Intro

(01:00) - Introducing Proverbs

(02:00) - What is wisdom in the Bible?

(04:30) - Godly wisdom vs self-help

(07:00) - Wisdom literature in the Bible

(11:25) - Does wisdom only come with age?

(22:12) - Wisdom in the New Testament

(27:37) - Wisdom is about God communicating

(28:52) - Are proverbs meant to be promises?

(33:37) - Wisdom and character over mere head knowledge

Rooted: Rooted is our devotional journal that helps make the Bible available to everyone, everywhere. Every other month, you’ll receive a new 80-page journal filled with insightful devotionals, thought-provoking prompts, and lots of opportunities to reflect, journal and be creative. Sign up today to receive your first journal for free.Send us your questions! We'd love to hear from you. Submit your question

Bible Society: The Rooted Podcast is brought to you by Bible Society, a Christian organisation that translates, publishes, and distributes the Bible. We communicate its relevance and invite people to experience the transforming power of the Scriptures in today’s world. Visit our website to find out more.

Bible Society socials: Facebook Instagram X (formerly Twitter) Disclaimer: This is a Bible Society podcast, but it’s also a conversation between people exploring the Bible together. We won’t get everything right, and we won’t always agree! Please be patient with us and join us on the journey. #Proverbs #Wisdom #BiblicalWisdom #WisdomVsSelfHelp #WisdomLiterature #ChristianLiving #ChristianPodcast

Everyday Faith Bible Let Scripture transform every part of your life with the Everyday Faith Bible. Created in partnership with the London Institute for Contemporary Christianity (LICC), the Everyday Faith Bible will help you to: Understand Scripture’s real-world context Relate to experiences and emotions in the passage Respond to what you read with practical action Key features: Up to 1,000 margin annotations throughout the Bible, to encourage ‘head, heart and hands’ confidence in applying Scripture to everyday life Real-life stories and quotes from Christian expert practitioners across the UK Whole-page introductions to each genre of biblical writing Whole-page features on important biblical themes

More from The Rooted Podcast

Jun 19, 2026

How can we model God’s love, and show what it looks like to love others, by truly listening?

Jun 12, 2026

How does God speak to people and how can they discern that it is really his voice? What does it mean to truly listen to God and obey him?

Jun 5, 2026

What does the Hebrew word Shema mean and what is the significance of the Shema prayer?

Jun 5, 2025

What is pentecost? What can we learn from the early church? Join us as we discuss the significance of Pentecost, exploring its historical and Biblical context, the arrival of the Holy Spirit, and the birth of the early church. We also reflect on the courage and community of the early believers, and the lessons that can be applied to the church today. Join us for a week of Pentecost devotionals. Timestamps

May 16, 2025

Why has this story been included in the biblical canon? What does it reveal about Jesus’ divine position as just lawgiver and merciful judge?

See all episodes →