The meaning of “חׇכְמָה”
Understanding chokmâh reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
skilful, wisdom, wisely, wit. - wisdom (in a good sense) 1) wisdom 1a) skill (in war) 1b) wisdom (in administration) 1c)...
חׇכְמָה
skilful, wisdom, wisely, wit. - wisdom (in a good sense) 1) wisdom 1a) skill (in war) 1b) wisdom (in administration) 1c) shrewdness, wisdom 1d) wisdom, prudence (in religious affairs) 1e) wisdom (ethical and religious)
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Exodus 35:31 | “And he hath filled him with the spirit of God, in wisdom, in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship;” Word: חׇכְמָה (chokmâh) | |
| 2 Samuel 20:22 | “Then the woman went unto all the people in her wisdom. And they cut off the head of Sheba the son of Bichri, and cast it out to Joab. And he blew a trumpet, and they retired from the city, every man to his tent. And Joab returned to Jerusalem unto the king.” Word: חׇכְמָה (chokmâh) | |
| 1 Chronicles 28:21 | “And, behold, the courses of the priests and the Levites, even they shall be with thee for all the service of the house of God: and there shall be with thee for all manner of workmanship every willing skilful man, for any manner of service: also the princes and all the people will be wholly at thy commandment. ” Word: חׇכְמָה (chokmâh) | |
| Job 28:18 | “No mention shall be made of coral, or of pearls: for the price of wisdom is above rubies.” Word: חׇכְמָה (chokmâh) | |
| Proverbs 11:2 | “When pride cometh, then cometh shame: but with the lowly is wisdom.” Word: חׇכְמָה (chokmâh) |
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).