The meaning of “σοφία”
Understanding sophía reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
wisdom. - wisdom (higher or lower, worldly or spiritual)
σοφία
wisdom. - wisdom (higher or lower, worldly or spiritual)
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Matthew 12:42 | “The queen of the south shall rise up in the judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it: for she came from the uttermost parts of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and, behold, a greater than Solomon is here.” Word: σοφία (sophía) | |
| Luke 11:31 | “The queen of the south shall rise up in the judgment with the men of this generation, and condemn them: for she came from the utmost parts of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and, behold, a greater than Solomon is here.” Word: σοφία (sophía) | |
| Romans 11:33 | “O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out!” Word: σοφία (sophía) | |
| 2 Corinthians 1:12 | “For our rejoicing is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom, but by the grace of God, we have had our conversation in the world, and more abundantly to you-ward.” Word: σοφία (sophía) | |
| Colossians 2:23 | “Which things have indeed a shew of wisdom in will worship, and humility, and neglecting of the body; not in any honour to the satisfying of the flesh. ” Word: σοφία (sophía) |
Theological Word Study: Wisdom
Old Testament Usage
Meaning: Wisdom, skill
The Hebrew chokhmah (חָכְמָה) denotes wisdom—practical skill in living righteously. 'The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom' (Proverbs 9:10), grounding all true knowledge in reverence for God.
New Testament Usage
Meaning: Wisdom, insight
The Greek sophia (σοφία) means wisdom or insight—skillful living and right judgment. Christ is 'the wisdom of God' (1 Corinthians 1:24), and God gives wisdom liberally to those who ask (James 1:5).