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The concept of Wise in Christianity

In Christianity, the concept of Wise encompasses multiple dimensions. It refers to individuals who are prepared, exemplified by the wise virgins with their vessels of oil, symbolizing readiness and sound judgment. The wise possess knowledge and intelligence, are characterized by their moral uprightness, and their teachings draw from wisdom traditions like Proverbs. This term also implies a divine quality, as God's actions embody perfect wisdom. Ultimately, being wise signifies a spiritual understanding that aligns with divine purpose and leads to eternal reward.1
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Synonyms: Sage, Knowledgeable, Prudent, Intelligent, Discerning, Sensible

In Finnish: Salvia; In French: Sage; In Dutch: Verstandig; In Spanish: Inteligente; In Swedish: Klok; In German: Salbei; In Malay: Yang bijak

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Christian concept of 'Wise'

Christianity Books

Significance in Early Christian church and writers:
Early Christianity Books

From: Ante-nicene Fathers

(1) This term denotes a characteristic of God, suggesting that all divine actions are undertaken with a purpose and that nothing is done without reason or wisdom.[1] (2) This term refers to individuals whose wisdom is subject to destruction, as the text indicates a declaration of such destruction.[2] (3) Wise is the term used by Solomon, calling the Gnostic wise, who speaks of those who admire the dignity of his mansion and will see the end of the wise.[3] (4) Individuals skilled in words and arts, also known as sophists, according to the Scripture, as stated in the provided text.[4] (5) These are the select individuals whose souls, according to certain philosophical viewpoints, are destined for a specific location, such as the ether, air, or moon, as opposed to other souls.[5]

From: Gospel of Thomas Commentary

(1) These are the ones who took oil in their vessels with their lamps, and they entered in with the bridegroom to the marriage.[6]

Early Christianity (also known as Early Church) refers to the period starting roughly in the 6th century BC up until 325 A.D. during which year the first council of Nicaea was convened. Popular literature includes the writings by the early Church Fathers which forms the basis of later Christian theology.

Significance in Christianity (general):

From: Hymns for Christian Devotion

(1) This term describes a state of possessing intelligence, knowledge, and good judgment.[7] (2) Individuals possessing knowledge.[8] (3) Following divine instructions will make people genuinely intelligent, and enable them to make sound decisions.[9]

From: A Dictionary of the Bible (Hastings)

(1) The wise are frequently mentioned in the text, but not as a class or as a group of people, they are described as successful and upright individuals.[10] (2) A special class of teachers that emerged over time in Israel, whose teachings were influenced by both the Proverbs and the wisdom traditions.[11]

From: Expositions of Holy Scripture

(1) The wise virgins are prepared with oil in their vessels, which allows them to keep their lamps lit when the bridegroom arrives.[12] (2) The wise are the ones who were ready and had oil, and they were not able to share their oil with the foolish.[13]

Significance in Protestantism (Christian movement emphasizing faith and scripture):
Protestantism Books

From: The Existence and Attributes of God

(1) This is a quality of possessing knowledge, understanding, and the ability to make sound judgments, and is often associated with intelligence.[14] (2) In the text, this term is extensively used to describe God's attributes, including his perfect understanding, knowledge, and ability to act in the best possible manner.[15]

Protestantism (or simply the protestant church) is a major branch of Christianity originating from the Reformation in the 16th century, led by figures like Martin Luther. It emphasizes salvation by faith alone and the Bible as the ultimate authority. Variants of Protestantism include Lutheranism, Calvinism, Anglicanism, Methodism and Presbyterianism, each with unique practices but generally united by these core principles.

Significance in Global Christian community:
Catholic Church Books

From: Summa Theologica (English translation)

(1) A person who is characterized by wisdom, and they should share their pleasures with others, excluding those that are associated with lust.[16]

The Catholic Church is a global Christian community with over a billion members, rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ. It is led by the Pope and emphasizes the sacraments, particularly the Eucharist. Catholicism is a denomination centered on the teachings thereof. It has a rich theological and cultural heritage.