Definition Essay - What is Wisdom - 579 Words

What is Wisdom? If one asks the majority of people what the word wisdom means, most will answer vaguely that it is the knowledge gained during a lifetime. However, wisdom is much more than just knowledge gained; it signifies the accumulation of knowledge, the application of learning, and the personification of Gods will in the creation of the universe (according to the American Heritage Dictionary, 6th ed.). The abstract nature of the word wisdom allows for broad interpretation of its context. To limit the vagueness of the definition, many interpret wisdom as the accumulation of knowledge. In Greek mythology, the goddess Athena was known for her wisdom. Additionally, the personification of animals as possessing wisdom†¦show more content†¦Just as the accumulation of knowledge is a part of wisdom, so is the application of learning. The ancient Greeks believed that logos, or reason and thought, led to sophia, or wisdom. These early lovers of wisdom, or philosophers, sought knowledge and attempted to apply it to solving the puzzles of the universe. Further, philosophers such as Aristotle believed that wisdom was necessary to make judgments which coincide with ones understanding of life. This view, also known as Philosophical Wisdom, is thought to be one of the highest attainable virtues. The Stoics, Greek and Roman philosophers, also had their own ideas about wisdom. To them, not only is wisdom a way of attaining human excellence, it also serves as a way to act according to ones personal ideals. Because attaining wisdom places the philosopher in an enlightened Nirvana-like state, however, it occasionally creates conflict for the individual having to deal with a dog-eat-dog existence. In order to release the enlightened mans tortured mind, therefore, Stoics believed suicide was permissible to relieve the pain of existence. The way to true happiness, Stoics believed, was to want what one gets rather than trying to get what one wants. Finally, wisdom can also explain Gods will in the creation of the universe. The idea of a God who created the heavensShow MoreRelatedEnglish Chapter 3 Essay1213 Words   |  5 PagesEnglish 101 Page 106 What did the writer say and what do you think? (1-3) 1.) No, I do not think any of Fulford’s examples of Movie Wisdom strikes me as inaccurate. Its because most of his examples were all on point and he explained how movies are predictable once you have a little in following the plots of different types of movies. 2.) He includes an anecdote, in an essay that shows how movies get it wrong, because he wants to tell the readers that people believe what they see and hear. ItsRead MoreThe Qualities Of Becoming Wise Essay1534 Words   |  7 PagesWisdom. 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