Wisdom of solomon 10:17 - She rendered to holy men a reward of their toils; She guided them along a marvelous way, And became to them a covering in the day-time, And a flame of stars through the night.

Generated Verse: Wisdom of solomon 10:17

What does "Wisdom of solomon 10:17" mean?


This verse from Wisdom of Solomon 10:17 is part of a larger passage praising Wisdom (personified as a woman). Let's break down what it likely means, considering the context and traditional interpretations:

"She rendered to holy men a reward of their toils": Wisdom isn't giving physical rewards like money or land. Instead, she provides the inner reward for righteous living. This can include understanding, peace of mind, the joy of knowing and doing God's will, and a sense of purpose. Their "toils" represent the challenges and struggles inherent in living a virtuous life. Wisdom ensures that these efforts are not in vain, but rather lead to a fulfilling and meaningful existence.

"She guided them along a marvelous way": Wisdom leads them on a path that is both wonderful and exceptional. It's not a typical or mundane existence but one filled with spiritual growth, divine favor, and unexpected blessings. It can also mean protecting them from evil and offering them the knowledge of how to navigate the complexities of life.

"And became to them a covering in the day-time": This speaks to Wisdom's protective power. "Covering" suggests shelter and defense from the scorching heat of adversity or the harsh glare of temptation. In the "day-time" (when life is exposed and visible), Wisdom shields them from harm, providing guidance to avoid dangers, and offering reassurance when they face opposition.

"And a flame of stars through the night": During the "night" (times of darkness, uncertainty, and despair), Wisdom acts as a source of light and hope. A "flame of stars" is a powerful image. It suggests a beacon of clarity that illuminates the path forward, helping them to overcome challenges and maintain their faith. The stars symbolize constancy, reliability, and divine guidance in the face of the unknown.

Overall Meaning:

The verse is a poetic description of Wisdom's transformative and protective role in the lives of righteous individuals. She rewards their efforts, guides their path, provides shelter from the trials of the day, and offers hope and direction during the darkness of night. It highlights that seeking and embracing Wisdom leads to a life of blessing, understanding, and protection from both internal and external threats. This isn't about tangible rewards, but about the spiritual and existential rewards that come from a life guided by divine wisdom.

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