Daily Word: Learning From Sages

Proverbs 22:17-18 say: Incline your ear, and hear the words of the wise, and apply your mind to my knowledge; for it will be pleasant if you keep them within you, if all of them are ready on your lips. (RSV) The JPS translation uses the word "sages" for "wise." It is very common for Jews to listen to the words of the wise sages from the past. Today, too many think that they can take the words of Scripture, not knowing the original languages, the grammar, the syntax, the historical setting, or the culture and determine what something means because they, "prayed about it." It is that kind of "thinking" that teaches women that they can't put on a pair of pants because Deuteronomy 22:5 says: A woman shall not wear anything that pertains to a man, nor shall a man put on a woman's garment; for whoever does these things is an abomination to the LORD your God. (RSV) Example after example could be given of man misunderstanding Scripture and making a nonsense rule for people to follow. It is vital that proper study be made that includes the historical setting to proper interpretation of Scripture. The Bible was written primarily by Jews to Jews. An understanding of who the Jewish people were is essential.

If one wants to really understand Scripture, one should find someone who is wise in the study of the Bible and listen to their words. There are many good study tools available today that do not require you to be a Hebrew or Greek scholar to use. A few clicks of a mouse and you can know the meaning of words in the original language. Listen to verses18-19 that describe the benefit of hearing the sages: For it will be pleasant if you keep them within you, if all of them are ready on your lips. That your trust may be in the LORD, I have made them known to you today, even to you. (RSV) There is a link between hearing the sages and trusting in the Lord. I encourage you to discover that link.

There can be even a greater issue involved. If you find yourself with no desire to study the Word, you need to discover the cause. Do you have the desire to pray? Or, has that also departed? The journey in this life can be exciting and fulfilling even in the midst of boredom. Have you discovered the joy of listening to the sages? If not, start today and enjoy the journey.