The Triumph of Righteousness: Understanding Wisdom of Solomon 5

Executive Summary ✨

Wisdom of Solomon Chapter 5 offers a powerful vision of divine justice and the ultimate triumph of the righteous. The wicked, having oppressed and scorned the just in their earthly lives, are now confronted with the glorious reality of the righteous standing before God in radiant majesty. Their astonishment and remorse highlight the futility of their earthly pursuits and the eternal consequences of their choices. The chapter underscores the importance of choosing wisdom and righteousness, offering profound lessons on judgment, repentance, and the enduring value of a life lived in accordance with God’s will. The triumph of righteousness is a central theme, demonstrating God’s unwavering commitment to justice and His ultimate vindication of those who trust in Him. This vindication serves as both a warning and an encouragement, urging believers to persevere in faith despite earthly trials.

This chapter from the Wisdom of Solomon paints a vivid picture of the final judgment, specifically focusing on the stark contrast between the fate of the righteous and the wicked. It emphasizes that The Triumph of Righteousness isn’t just a hopeful aspiration but a divine promise. Let’s delve into this profound chapter verse by verse, exploring its rich theological and spiritual implications for our lives today.

Commentary Sections 📖

Wisdom of Solomon 5:1

Original (Septuagint): Τότε στήσεται ἐν παρρησίᾳ μεγάλῃ οἱ δίκαιοι κατὰ πρόσωπον τῶν θλιψάντων αὐτοὺς καὶ τῶν ἀθετούντων τὰς ἐργασίας αὐτῶν.

KJV: Then shall the righteous man stand in great boldness before the face of such as have afflicted him, and made no account of his labours.

NKJV: Then the righteous will stand with great boldness before the face of those who afflicted them, and made light of all their labors.

Commentary: This verse sets the stage. The righteous will “stand with great boldness” (ἐν παρρησίᾳ μεγάλῃ) before their oppressors. This boldness isn’t arrogance but rather the confidence that comes from being vindicated by God. Think of St. Paul’s unwavering faith, even in the face of persecution. The phrase “before the face of such as have afflicted him” underscores the personal nature of the judgment. Those who directly caused suffering will witness the righteous’s exaltation. The phrase “made light of all their labors” highlights the injustice; the hard work and dedication of the righteous were disregarded by the wicked.

Patristic Insight: St. Athanasius, in his *Contra Gentes*, speaks of the boldness of Christians before their persecutors, stating that their unwavering faith is a testament to the truth of their beliefs. (Ἀθανάσιος, Κατὰ Ἐθνῶν).

Spiritual Application: In our own lives, we face challenges and often feel unseen or unappreciated. This verse reminds us that our efforts, especially those done in service to God, are not in vain. God sees our faithfulness and will ultimately vindicate us. Remember that quiet acts of service, like volunteering or even just offering a kind word, are seen by God and contribute to our ultimate “triumph of righteousness.” Consider using website builder to share acts of righteousness.

Wisdom of Solomon 5:2-3

Original (Septuagint): Ἰδόντες ταραχθήσονται τρόμῳ δεινῷ καὶ ἐκστήσονται ἐκ τῆς σωτηρίας αὐτῶν· λέγοντες ἐν ἑαυτοῖς μεταμελούμενοι καὶ στενάζοντες διὰ τὴν στενοχωρίαν τοῦ πνεύματος.

KJV: When they see it, they shall be troubled with terrible fear, and shall be amazed at the strangeness of his salvation, so far beyond all that they looked for. And they repenting and groaning for anguish of spirit shall say within themselves,

NKJV: When they see him, they will be troubled with terrible fear, and will be amazed at the strangeness of his salvation, so far beyond all that they expected. They will repent and groan in anguish of spirit,

Commentary: The reaction of the wicked is one of “terrible fear” (τρόμῳ δεινῷ) and amazement. They are “amazed at the strangeness of his salvation” because they never expected the righteous to be vindicated in such a glorious way. This highlights the disconnect between earthly expectations and divine reality. Their repentance comes not from genuine remorse but from the “anguish of spirit” (στενοχωρίαν τοῦ πνεύματος), a realization of their impending doom. This isn’t transformative repentance leading to salvation but rather a sorrow born of regret and fear. The geographic context might be imagined in the Valley of Jehoshaphat, the traditional location for the final judgement.

Patristic Insight: St. Cyril of Alexandria, in his commentary on Isaiah, speaks of the terror that will grip those who reject God’s grace when they see the glory of the saved. (Κύριλλος Ἀλεξανδρείας, Εἰς Ἠσαΐαν).

Spiritual Application: This passage serves as a potent reminder to examine our own hearts. Are we pursuing earthly success at the expense of spiritual growth? Do we value the things of God, or are we more concerned with worldly pleasures? True repentance involves a change of heart and a turning away from sin towards God. We must cultivate a genuine love for righteousness, not merely regret our sins when faced with their consequences.

Wisdom of Solomon 5:4-5

Original (Septuagint): Οὗτος ἦν, ὃν ἐσχέδομεν ποτέ, καὶ γέλωτα παραβολῆς καὶ ἀφροσύνης ὁμοίωμα· ἡ ζωὴ αὐτοῦ ἐλογίζετο μανία, καὶ ἡ τελευτὴ αὐτοῦ ἀτιμία.

KJV: This is he, whom we had sometimes in derision, and a proverb of reproach: We fools accounted his life madness, and his end to be without honour.

NKJV: This is the one we once held in derision and as a byword of reproach. We fools accounted his life madness and his end without honor!

Commentary: The wicked now recognize the one they mocked and scorned. They remember the righteous person as a figure of “derision” (ἐσχέδομεν ποτέ) and “a proverb of reproach.” They acknowledge their folly in considering his life “madness” and his death “without honor.” This highlights the world’s tendency to misunderstand and devalue those who live righteously. The archaeological context could relate to how early Christians were viewed by the Roman Empire.

Patristic Insight: St. Ignatius of Antioch, in his letter to the Romans, expressed his willingness to suffer for Christ, even to the point of being considered a fool by the world. (Ἰγνάτιος Ἀντιοχείας, Πρὸς Ῥωμαίους).

Spiritual Application: This verse should encourage us not to be swayed by the opinions of the world. True wisdom lies in following Christ, even if it means being misunderstood or ridiculed. The approval of God is far more valuable than the praise of men. We can find strength and guidance in scripture and through prayer.

Wisdom of Solomon 5:6-7

Original (Septuagint): Πῶς ἐλογίσθη ἐν τέκνοις θεοῦ καὶ ἐν ἁγίοις ὁ κλῆρος αὐτοῦ; ἄρα ἐπλανήθημεν ἀπὸ ὁδοῦ ἀληθείας, καὶ τὸ φῶς τῆς δικαιοσύνης οὐκ ἐπέλαμψεν ἡμῖν, καὶ ὁ ἥλιος τῆς συνέσεως οὐκ ἀνέτειλεν ἐφ’ ἡμᾶς.

KJV: How is he numbered among the children of God, and his lot is among the saints! Therefore have we erred from the way of truth, and the light of righteousness hath not shined unto us, and the sun of understanding rose not upon us.

NKJV: How is he numbered among the children of God, and his lot is among the saints! Therefore we strayed from the way of truth, and the light of righteousness did not shine on us, and the sun of understanding did not rise on us.

Commentary: The wicked lament the fact that the righteous are now “numbered among the children of God.” They realize they have “erred from the way of truth” and that the “light of righteousness” did not shine upon them. The “sun of understanding” (ὁ ἥλιος τῆς συνέσεως) represents spiritual enlightenment, which they failed to attain. This underscores the importance of seeking divine wisdom and guidance. The environmental context can be connected to the idea of walking in darkness and the need for spiritual illumination.

Patristic Insight: St. Gregory of Nyssa, in his *Life of Moses*, uses the imagery of light and darkness to describe the difference between those who follow God and those who reject Him. (Γρηγόριος Νύσσης, Βίος Μωυσέως).

Spiritual Application: We must constantly seek to grow in spiritual understanding. This involves studying the Scriptures, praying, and seeking guidance from the Holy Spirit. It also requires being open to correction and willing to admit when we are wrong. Let’s pray for the “light of righteousness” and the “sun of understanding” to guide our steps.

Wisdom of Solomon 5:8-14

Original (Septuagint): Ἐκοπιάσαμεν ἐν ὁδῷ ἀνομίας καὶ ἀπωλείας, καὶ διεπορεύθημεν ὁδοὺς δυσχωρήτους, τὴν δὲ ὁδὸν κυρίου οὐκ ἐπέγνωμεν. Τί ὠφέλησεν ἡμᾶς ἡ ὑπερηφανία; ἢ τί ὁ πλοῦτος μετὰ τὴν ἀλαζονείαν ἐπήνεγκεν ἡμῖν; πάντα ταῦτα παρῆλθεν ὡς σκιὰ καὶ ὡς ἀγγελία δρομέως. Ὡς ναῦς διερχομένη θάλασσαν ταρασσομένην, ἧς διελευούσης ἴχνος οὐ δύναται εὑρεθῆναι οὐδὲ τρίβος πηδαλίου ἐν κύμασιν· ἢ ὡς ὄρνις πετομένη ἐν ἀέρι, οὗ τὸ πέταγμα οὐδὲν σημεῖον εὑρίσκεται, ἀλλὰ διῄρηται ὁ ἀὴρ κτύπῳ τῶν πτερύγων καὶ μετὰ ταῦτα οὐδεμία εὑρίσκεται ὁδὸς τοῦ διελεύσεως αὐτοῦ· ἢ ὡς βέλος ἐπὶ σκοπὸν βαλλόμενον, τοῦ διαιρεθέντος ἀέρος πάλιν συνελθόντος, ὥστε ἀγνοηθῆναι τὴν διόδευσιν αὐτοῦ. Οὕτως καὶ ἡμεῖς γεννηθέντες εὐθὺς ἐπαυσάμεθα καὶ σημεῖον ἀρετῆς οὐκ ἠδυνήθημεν δεῖξαι, ἀλλ’ ἐν τῇ κακίᾳ ἡμῶν κατεδαπανήθημεν.

KJV: We wearied ourselves in the way of wickedness and destruction: yea, we have gone through deserts, where there lay no way: but as for the way of the Lord, we have not known it. What hath pride profited us? or what good hath riches with our vaunting brought us? All those things are passed away like a shadow, and as a post that hasted by; And as a ship that passeth over the waves of the water, which when it is gone by, the trace thereof cannot be found, neither the pathway of the keel in the waves; Or as when a bird hath flown through the air, there is no token of her way to be found, but the light air being beaten with the stroke of her wings and parted with the violent noise and motion of them, is thenceforth closed up again, and no sign where she went is to be found; Or like as an arrow which is shot at a mark, it parteth the air, which immediately cometh together again, so that a man cannot know where it went through: Even so we in like manner, as soon as we were born, began to draw to our end, and had no sign of virtue to shew; but were consumed in our own wickedness.

NKJV: We have wearied ourselves in the way of lawlessness and destruction, and we have gone through waterless deserts, but the way of the Lord we have not known. What has pride profited us? Or what good has the boasting of riches done for us? All those things have passed away like a shadow, like a messenger running by, like a ship that crosses the surging water, of which, when it has passed, no trace can be found, nor a pathway of its keel in the waves; or as when a bird flies through the air, no evidence of its passage is found – the light air, lashed by the beat of its wings and pierced by the force of its flight, is traversed, and afterward no sign of its passing is seen there; or as when an arrow is shot at a target, the air, closing in again immediately, does not allow the passage to be traced— so we also, as soon as we were born, ceased to be, and we had no sign of virtue to show, but were consumed in our wickedness.

Commentary: This section is filled with vivid imagery depicting the fleeting nature of earthly pleasures and the futility of pursuing wickedness. The wicked acknowledge that they “wearied ourselves in the way of lawlessness and destruction.” They compare their earthly pursuits to a shadow, a passing messenger, a ship leaving no trace in the water, a bird flying without a trace, and an arrow whose path disappears. These images emphasize the transient and ultimately meaningless nature of a life lived without God. The geographical imagery of “waterless deserts” paints a stark picture of spiritual barrenness. The scientific understanding of aerodynamics and projectile motion further highlights the disappearing nature of their pursuits.

Patristic Insight: St. Basil the Great, in his homilies, often used natural imagery to illustrate spiritual truths, highlighting the contrast between the fleeting nature of earthly things and the enduring reality of God’s kingdom. (Βασίλειος ὁ Μέγας, Ὁμιλίαι).

Spiritual Application: This passage challenges us to consider what we are investing our time and energy in. Are we pursuing lasting, eternal values, or are we chasing fleeting pleasures that will ultimately leave us empty? We must strive to build our lives on a foundation of faith, righteousness, and love, rather than on the shifting sands of worldly success. Are we building something eternal, or are our efforts as ephemeral as the wake of a ship? This passage powerfully reminds us to prioritize eternal values. Reflect on the transient nature of worldly possessions. Are we investing in things that will last, or are we chasing shadows?

Wisdom of Solomon 5:15-16

Original (Septuagint): Οἱ δὲ δίκαιοι εἰς τὸν αἰῶνα ζῶσι, καὶ ἐν κυρίῳ ὁ μισθὸς αὐτῶν, καὶ ἡ φροντὶς αὐτῶν παρὰ ὑψίστῳ. Διὰ τοῦτο λήμψονται τὸ βασίλειον τῆς εὐπρεπείας καὶ τὸ διάδημα τοῦ κάλλους ἐκ χειρὸς κυρίου, ὅτι τῇ δεξιᾷ αὐτοῦ σκεπάσει αὐτούς καὶ τῷ βραχίονι ὑπερασπιεῖ αὐτῶν.

KJV: But the righteous live for evermore; their reward also is with the Lord, and the care of them is with the most High. Therefore shall they receive a glorious kingdom, and a beautiful crown from the Lord’s hand: for with his right hand shall he cover them, and with his arm shall he protect them.

NKJV: But the righteous live forevermore, their reward is with the Lord, and the care of them is with the Most High. Therefore they will receive a glorious kingdom and a beautiful crown from the hand of the Lord, for with His right hand He will cover them and with His arm protect them.

Commentary: In stark contrast to the fate of the wicked, the righteous “live forevermore.” Their reward is with the Lord, and they are under the care of the Most High. They will receive “a glorious kingdom and a beautiful crown” from the Lord’s hand. This emphasizes the eternal reward that awaits those who trust in God. The imagery of God covering them with His right hand and protecting them with His arm speaks of divine protection and unwavering love.

Patristic Insight: St. Irenaeus of Lyons, in his *Against Heresies*, speaks of the eternal life that awaits believers in Christ, a life of communion with God and participation in His glory. (Εἰρηναῖος Λουγδούνου, Κατὰ Αἱρέσεων).

Spiritual Application: This passage offers hope and encouragement. No matter what challenges we face in this life, we can be assured of God’s love and protection. Our ultimate reward is eternal life with Him. Let this promise sustain us through trials and motivate us to live righteously. Hold fast to the promise of eternal life. How does this motivate you to live righteously today? Reflect on the imagery of God’s protection. How can this image provide comfort and strength?

Wisdom of Solomon 5:17-23

Original (Septuagint): Λήμψεται πανοπλίαν τὸν ζῆλον αὐτοῦ καὶ ὁπλοποιήσει τὴν κτίσιν εἰς ἄμυναν τῶν ὁσίων. Ἐνδύσεται θώρακα δικαιοσύνης καὶ περιθήσεται περικεφαλαίαν κρίσιν ἀνυπόκριτον· λήμψεται ἀσπίδα ἀκαταμάχητον ὁσιότητα, ὀξυνεῖ δὲ ἀπότομον ὀργὴν εἰς ῥομφαίαν, συνεκπολεμήσει δὲ αὐτῷ ὁ κόσμος ἐπὶ τοὺς παράφρονας. Πορεύσονται εὔστοχοι βολίδες ἀστραπῶν, καὶ ὡς ἀπὸ εὐκύκλου τόξου τῶν νεφῶν ἐπιτελοῦσιν ἐπὶ σκοπὸν ἁλοῦνται· καὶ ἀπὸ καταπέλτου θυμοῦ πληρεῖς ῥιφήσονται χάλαζαι· ἀγανακτήσει ἐπ’ αὐτοὺς ὕδωρ θαλάσσης, ποταμοὶ δὲ συγκλύσουσιν αὐτομόλως. Ἀντιστήσεται αὐτοῖς πνεῦμα δυνάμεως καὶ ὡς λαῖλαψ ἐκλικμήσει αὐτούς, καὶ ἐρημώσει πᾶσαν τὴν γῆν ἡ ἀνομία αὐτῶν, καὶ ἡ κακοπραγία καταστρέψει θρόνους δυναστῶν.

KJV: He shall take to him his jealousy for complete armour, and make the creature his weapon for the revenge of his enemies. He shall put on righteousness as a breastplate, and true judgment instead of an helmet. He shall take holiness for an invincible shield. His severe wrath shall he sharpen for a sword, and the world shall fight with him against the unwise. Then shall the right aiming thunderbolts go abroad; and from the clouds shall they fly as from a well drawn bow, they shall be shot out, and hailstones full of wrath shall be cast as out of a stone bow: the water of the sea shall rage against them, and the floods shall cruelly overflow them: Yea, a mighty wind shall stand up against them, and like a whirlwind shall drive them away: thus iniquity shall lay waste the whole earth, and ill dealing shall overthrow the thrones of the mighty.

NKJV: He will take His zeal as His whole armor, and arm creation to punish His enemies; He will put on righteousness as a breastplate, and justice as a helmet; He will take holiness as an invincible shield, and sharpen stern wrath as a sword, and the world will fight with Him against the senseless. Well-aimed thunderbolts will go forth, and from the clouds, as from a well-drawn bow, they will leap to the target; hailstones full of wrath will be hurled as from a catapult. The water of the sea will rage against them, and rivers will relentlessly overwhelm them. A mighty wind will rise against them, and like a whirlwind it will winnow them away. Thus lawlessness will lay waste the whole earth, and evil deeds will overturn the thrones of rulers.

Commentary: This section paints a powerful picture of God’s judgment, depicting Him as arming Himself with “jealousy for complete armour.” Creation itself becomes a weapon against His enemies. Righteousness is His breastplate, justice His helmet, and holiness His invincible shield. The imagery is intense: thunderbolts, hailstones, raging seas, and a mighty wind all combine to depict the overwhelming force of God’s wrath against the wicked. The scientific descriptions of weather phenomena add to the impact of the imagery. This passage echoes other biblical descriptions of God’s judgment, such as the plagues of Egypt or the flood in the time of Noah.

Patristic Insight: St. John Chrysostom, in his homilies, often spoke of the power and majesty of God’s judgment, warning against complacency and urging his listeners to live lives worthy of His kingdom. (Ἰωάννης ὁ Χρυσόστομος, Ὁμιλίαι).

Spiritual Application: This passage reminds us that God is a just judge who will ultimately hold everyone accountable for their actions. We must fear God, not in a sense of terror, but in a sense of reverence and awe. Let this knowledge motivate us to live lives of holiness and righteousness. Reflect on the completeness of God’s armor. What does this say about His power and justice? Consider the role of creation in God’s judgment. How does this emphasize the scope of His authority?

Subtopic Sections 💡

Here are some key reflections and teachings we can glean from Wisdom of Solomon 5:

• The Importance of Perspective: Earthly success and approval are fleeting. True and lasting value lies in living righteously and pleasing God.
• The Reality of Judgment: There will be a final judgment where the righteous will be vindicated and the wicked will face the consequences of their choices.
• The Value of Righteousness: Righteousness isn’t merely a set of rules but a way of life that leads to eternal life and fellowship with God.
• The Folly of Wickedness: Pursuing wickedness leads to emptiness, regret, and ultimately, destruction.
• God’s Unwavering Justice: God is just and will ultimately set all things right. We can trust in His justice even when we don’t understand His ways.
• The Promise of Eternal Life: For those who trust in God, there is the promise of eternal life and a glorious reward in His presence.

FAQ ❓

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Wisdom of Solomon 5:

• Q: Why does the book focus so much on the contrast between the righteous and the wicked?

  A: The emphasis on this contrast serves to highlight the consequences of choices. It provides a clear path for guidance and encourages readers to consider their own actions.

• Q: Is the “fear” described in the passage a healthy fear or a crippling fear?

  A: The fear described is a healthy fear of God, a sense of reverence and awe that motivates us to live righteously. It’s not a paralyzing fear but one that inspires us to seek His will.

• Q: How can I apply the teachings of Wisdom of Solomon 5 to my everyday life?

  A: Strive to live righteously, prioritize spiritual growth over worldly success, and trust in God’s justice and love. Remember that your actions have eternal consequences.

• Q: What does this chapter tell us about the nature of repentance?

  A: This chapter highlights the difference between true repentance, which leads to a change of heart and a turning towards God, and mere regret, which is born of fear and doesn’t lead to lasting change. True repentance bears fruit in righteous living.

Conclusion ✨

Wisdom of Solomon 5 provides a sobering yet ultimately hopeful message. The Triumph of Righteousness is not merely a distant promise but a present reality for those who trust in God. The contrast between the fate of the wicked and the righteous serves as a powerful reminder to choose wisdom, righteousness, and a life lived in accordance with God’s will. Let us strive to live in such a way that when we stand before God, we will do so with boldness and confidence, knowing that our reward is with Him. Embrace the wisdom found in this chapter. Let it guide your choices and shape your character.

Tags

Wisdom of Solomon, Righteousness, Judgment, Repentance, Eternal Life, Coptic Orthodox, Patristic, Theology, Divine Justice, Vindication

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Explore Wisdom of Solomon 5: The Triumph of the Righteous. Discover profound insights on divine justice, judgment, and the eternal reward for a life lived righteously. A Coptic Orthodox perspective.