Wisdom’s Saving Hand: Unveiling Divine Providence in Wisdom of Solomon 10

Executive Summary ✨

Wisdom of Solomon 10 masterfully recounts the pivotal role of Divine Wisdom in guiding humanity from the Fall to the liberation of Israel under Moses. This chapter showcases Wisdom as the active agent of salvation, rescuing Adam from his transgression, protecting righteous Noah during the flood, leading Abraham to faith, and delivering Lot from Sodom’s destruction. It highlights Wisdom’s constant presence with those who sought righteousness, demonstrating God’s unwavering commitment to His creation. The culmination of Wisdom’s work is seen in the Exodus, where Wisdom directs the Israelites through the wilderness, provides them with water, and defeats their enemies. Ultimately, Wisdom of Solomon 10 demonstrates God’s active and loving involvement in human history, emphasizing that true wisdom lies in seeking Him.

This profound chapter, Wisdom of Solomon 10, delves into the very heart of God’s interaction with humanity, illuminating how Divine Wisdom has consistently intervened to guide, protect, and ultimately save those who sought righteousness from the dawn of creation. It is a testament to God’s enduring covenant and proactive love for His people throughout history.

Commentary Sections 📖

Wisdom Preserves Adam (Wisdom of Solomon 10:1)

Wisdom of Solomon 10:1 (KJV): She preserved the first formed father of the world, that was created alone, and brought him out of his fall.

Wisdom of Solomon 10:1 (NKJV): Wisdom kept the first-formed father of the world, when he alone was created, and rescued him from his transgression.

This verse establishes Wisdom as the protector and deliverer of Adam. Adam, “created alone,” represents the original, unfallen humanity. However, he succumbed to temptation. It’s crucial to note that the fall wasn’t the end. Wisdom, personified as a feminine figure (Σοφία, Sophia in Greek), actively intervened to rescue Adam “from his transgression” (παραπτώματος αὐτοῦ, paraptōmatos autou). This rescue isn’t necessarily a complete restoration to his pre-fall state, but rather, a preservation and a provision of hope and redemption through God’s promise.

From a Coptic Orthodox perspective, this highlights the grace extended to Adam even after his sin. St. Athanasius, in *De Incarnatione* (Περὶ Ἐνανθρωπήσεως), speaks of God’s plan to restore humanity through the Incarnation, demonstrating that even after the Fall, God’s love and plan for salvation remain unbroken. “Διὰ τοῦτο οὐκ ἀπέστρεψεν ὁ Λόγος τὴν ἑαυτοῦ εἰκόνα ἀπὸ τῆς γῆς·” (Dia touto ouk apestrepsen ho Logos tēn heautou eikona apo tēs gēs;) “Therefore, the Word did not turn his own image away from the earth” (Athanasius, *De Incarnatione*, 13).

Spiritual Application: Even in our deepest falls, God’s Wisdom offers rescue. Don’t despair in your failures; seek God’s guidance and embrace the hope of redemption. Confession and repentance through the sacraments of the church, especially the sacrament of confession, cleanses us from sin and brings us closer to God. See the benefits of using church services for your religious needs.

Wisdom Guides Noah and Gives Him Strength (Wisdom of Solomon 10:4)

Wisdom of Solomon 10:4 (KJV): Moreover, when the earth was drowned with the flood, wisdom again delivered it, directing the course of the righteous in a piece of wood of small value.

Wisdom of Solomon 10:4 (NKJV): Moreover, when the earth was flooded because of wickedness, Wisdom again delivered it, directing the righteous man in a plain piece of wood.

The verse describes the devastating flood and Wisdom’s role in saving Noah. The “flood” (κατακλυσμοῦ, kataklusmou) was a consequence of humanity’s wickedness, a judgment on the corruption that had permeated the earth (Genesis 6:5-7). Wisdom “delivered it” (διέσωσεν, diasōsen), meaning Noah and his family, the righteous remnant, through the Ark – a “piece of wood of small value” (ἐπὶ ξύλου φαύλου, epi xylou phaulou). This seemingly insignificant vessel, guided by divine Wisdom, became the instrument of salvation.

This resonates with the Coptic Orthodox understanding of salvation through seemingly simple means. The Cross of Christ, a piece of wood, is the ultimate symbol of salvation. Just as the Ark saved Noah and his family, the Cross saves all who believe. St. Cyril of Alexandria wrote extensively about the typological significance of Old Testament events foreshadowing Christ. He highlights the parallels between the Ark and the Church, both offering refuge from the storms of the world. “Τύπος τῆς Ἐκκλησίας ἡ κιβωτός” (Typos tēs Ekklēsias hē kibōtos), “The Ark is a type of the Church” (Cyril of Alexandria, *Glaphyra in Genesim*).

Spiritual Application: God often uses seemingly insignificant things to accomplish great purposes. Trust in God’s plan even when it seems unconventional or unimpressive. The power of faith lies not in grand gestures but in humble obedience to God’s word. Pray that you can always trust in God in difficult times.

Abraham: Wisdom Guides Him from Sin (Wisdom of Solomon 10:5)

Wisdom of Solomon 10:5 (KJV): Moreover, when the nations conspired together in wickedness, she knew the righteous, and preserved him blameless unto God, and kept him strong against his tender compassion toward his son.

Wisdom of Solomon 10:5 (NKJV): When the nations were in wicked conspiracy, Wisdom knew the righteous man, and preserved him blameless before God, and kept him strong in the face of his tender compassion for his son.

This verse describes the situation with the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. We see Abraham’s righteous character recognized. Wisdom “knew the righteous” (ἔγνω δίκαιον, egnō dikaion), referring to Abraham, and “preserved him blameless unto God” (ἀφθόριστον Θεῷ διεφύλαξεν, aphthoriston Theō diephylaxen). The verse also alludes to Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice Isaac. Abraham showed strength against his “tender compassion toward his son” (ἔσχεν ἰσχύουσιν ἀγάπην υἱοῦ, eschen ischyousin agapēn huiou) and was faithful to God’s command.

Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice Isaac is a prefigurement of Christ’s sacrifice. God tests Abraham’s love, just as God tests our faith today. St. Gregory of Nyssa, in his *Life of Moses*, explores the idea of spiritual ascent. He emphasizes that Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice Isaac represents a transcendence of earthly attachments in pursuit of divine love. “Καθαρτικὴ δὲ τῆς ψυχῆς ὁ ἔρως ὁ πρὸς τὸ ἀγαθόν” (Kathartikē de tēs psychēs ho erōs ho pros to agathon), “The love towards the Good is purifying for the soul” (Gregory of Nyssa, *Life of Moses*, Book II).

Spiritual Application: True faith requires obedience, even when it’s difficult or painful. Be willing to sacrifice your own desires for God’s will. Trust that God will provide even in the face of great trials. Remember that God’s love is greater than any earthly love. Pray for obedience in your life, and that you can always align your will with God’s.

Lot’s Escape from Sodom (Wisdom of Solomon 10:6-7)

Wisdom of Solomon 10:6 (KJV): She delivered the righteous from the destruction of the ungodly, when he fled from the fire which fell down upon the five cities.

Wisdom of Solomon 10:6 (NKJV): When the ungodly perished, Wisdom delivered the righteous man who fled from the fire that descended on the five cities.

This verse describes Wisdom’s protection of Lot during the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. The “ungodly” (ἀσεβῶν, asebōn) suffered destruction due to their wickedness. The “fire which fell down” (πυρὸς καταρρέοντος, pyros katarrheontos) refers to the sulfurous rain that destroyed the cities. Lot, the “righteous man” (δίκαιον, dikaion), was rescued by Wisdom. Genesis 19 provides the narrative of the angel’s intervention.

Wisdom of Solomon 10:7 (KJV): Of whose wickedness even to this day the waste land that smoketh is a testimony, and plants bearing fruit that never come to ripeness: and a standing pillar of salt is a monument of an unbelieving soul.

Wisdom of Solomon 10:7 (NKJV): Of whose wickedness the desolate land is a witness to this day, and plants bearing fruit that does not ripen; a pillar of salt stands as a reminder of an unbelieving soul.

This verse emphasizes the lasting consequences of Sodom’s wickedness. The “waste land that smoketh” (ἔρημος καπνιζομένη, erēmos kapnizomenē) refers to the desolation of the area, still evident as a testimony to God’s judgment. The “pillar of salt” (στήλη ἅλατος, stēlē halatos) is a reference to Lot’s wife, who disobeyed the angel’s command and was turned into a pillar of salt. This serves as “a monument of an unbelieving soul” (μνημεῖον ψυχῆς ἀπιστούσης, mnēmeion psychēs apistousēs).

The Dead Sea region, near where Sodom and Gomorrah were believed to be located, is indeed a harsh environment. The high salt content prevents most plant life from thriving. This ecological reality echoes the biblical description of the land’s desolation. The pillar of salt serves as a powerful metaphor for the consequences of disobedience and lack of faith. St. Basil the Great often spoke about the importance of heeding God’s warnings and avoiding the pitfalls of sin. In his homilies, he uses examples from the Old Testament to illustrate the consequences of disobedience. “Φόβος Κυρίου ἀρχὴ σοφίας” (Phobos Kyriou archē sophias), “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom” (Basil the Great, *Homiliae in Psalmos*, Psalm 110).

Spiritual Application: Disobedience to God has lasting consequences. Heed God’s warnings and avoid the path of wickedness. Remember Lot’s wife: looking back to our old sinful ways can lead to spiritual stagnation and judgment. Always look ahead with faith and trust in God’s promises. Be obedient in prayer, fasting, and giving to the poor.

Wisdom Leads Jacob (Wisdom of Solomon 10:10)

Wisdom of Solomon 10:10 (KJV): When the righteous fled from his brother’s wrath, she guided him in right paths, shewed him the kingdom of God, and gave him knowledge of holy things, made him rich in his travels, and multiplied his fruit.

Wisdom of Solomon 10:10 (NKJV): When a righteous man fled from his brother’s wrath, Wisdom guided him in right paths, showed him the kingdom of God, and gave him knowledge of holy things; she prospered him in his labors, and increased the fruit of his fields.

This verse speaks of Jacob, who “fled from his brother’s wrath” (ἀπὸ ὀργῆς ἀδελφοῦ, apo orgēs adelphou) – Esau, due to his deception regarding the birthright. Wisdom “guided him in right paths” (διεύθυνεν ἐν ὁδοῖς εὐθείαις, dieēthynen en hodois eutheiais) leading him to safety and ultimately to prosperity. She “shewed him the kingdom of God” (ἔδειξεν αὐτῷ βασιλείαν Θεοῦ, edeixen autō basileian Theou), likely referring to the dream at Bethel (Genesis 28:10-17) where Jacob saw the ladder to heaven. Wisdom also “gave him knowledge of holy things” (ἔδωκεν ἐπιστήμην ἁγίων, edōken epistēmēn hagiōn), deepening his understanding of God’s covenant.

Jacob’s journey is a powerful illustration of God’s guidance and provision. Even when we make mistakes (as Jacob did), God can still use us for His purposes. St. John Chrysostom often emphasized the importance of perseverance and trust in God, even in the face of adversity. Jacob’s story exemplifies this principle. “Μὴ ἀθυμεῖτε ἐν ταῖς θλίψεσι, χαίροντες τῇ ἐλπίδι” (Mē athumeite en tais thliphesi, chairontes tē elpidi), “Do not be discouraged in tribulations, rejoicing in hope” (John Chrysostom, *Homiliae in Epistolam ad Romanos*, 9.2).

Spiritual Application: Seek God’s guidance in all your decisions. Even when facing the consequences of your mistakes, trust that God can lead you on the right path. Remember the vision of the ladder at Bethel; strive to climb closer to God in your daily life. Daily pray, repent, and seek to live a righteous life.

Wisdom Delivers Joseph (Wisdom of Solomon 10:13-14)

Wisdom of Solomon 10:13 (KJV): She went down with him into the pit, and left him not in bonds, till she brought him the sceptre of the kingdom, and power against those that oppressed him: as for them that had accused him, she shewed them to be liars, and gave him perpetual glory.

Wisdom of Solomon 10:13 (NKJV): She went down with him into the pit, and did not leave him in bonds, till she brought him the scepter of the kingdom and power over those who oppressed him. As for those who accused him, she proved them false, and gave him everlasting glory.

This verse describes Wisdom’s role in Joseph’s life. “She went down with him into the pit” (κατέβη μετ’ αὐτοῦ εἰς λάκκον, katebē met’ autou eis lakkon) refers to Joseph’s brothers throwing him into a well/cistern. Wisdom “left him not in bonds” (οὐκ ἐγκατέλιπεν αὐτὸν ἐν δεσμοῖς, ouk egkatelipen auton en desmois), meaning she did not abandon him in slavery or prison, “till she brought him the sceptre of the kingdom” (ἕως ὅτου προσήνεγκεν αὐτῷ σκῆπτρον βασιλείας, heōs hotou prosēnegken autō skēptron basileias), elevating him to a position of power in Egypt. This verse emphasizes God’s presence even in the darkest moments of Joseph’s life.

Wisdom of Solomon 10:14 (KJV): She delivered the holy people and the blameless seed from the nation that oppressed them.

Wisdom of Solomon 10:14 (NKJV): She delivered the holy people and the blameless race from a nation of oppressors.

This verse describes how Joseph’s leadership, guided by Wisdom, ultimately led to the preservation of the Israelites during the famine. “She delivered the holy people” (ἔσωσε λαὸν ἅγιον, esōse laon hagion) – the Israelites – from “the nation that oppressed them” (ἀπὸ ἔθνους καταδυναστεύοντος, apo ethnous katadynasteuontos) through the provision of food during the famine.

Joseph’s story illustrates God’s sovereignty and ability to turn even evil intentions into good. St. Ephrem the Syrian frequently used Joseph’s story as an example of God’s providence and the triumph of good over evil. He saw Joseph as a type of Christ, who was also betrayed and suffered but ultimately triumphed. “Οὐκ ἔστιν ἀδικία ἐν τῷ Θεῷ” (Ouk estin adikia en tō Theō), “There is no injustice in God” (Ephrem the Syrian, *Commentary on Genesis*).

Spiritual Application: Even in times of suffering and injustice, trust that God is working for your good. Remember Joseph’s story: God can turn your trials into triumphs. Forgive those who have wronged you, as Joseph forgave his brothers. Pray for those you hold malice towards.

Wisdom Leads Israel Out of Egypt (Wisdom of Solomon 10:15-21)

These verses describe the Exodus, highlighting the miracles and divine intervention that secured Israel’s freedom. This is a climax of Wisdom’s activity. The detail is extensive and poetic in its description of God’s work.

Wisdom of Solomon 10:15 (KJV): She went down with him into the pit, and left him not in bonds, till she brought him the sceptre of the kingdom, and power against those that oppressed him: as for them that had accused him, she shewed them to be liars, and gave him perpetual glory.

Wisdom of Solomon 10:15 (NKJV): She delivered the holy people and the blameless race from a nation of oppressors.

This verse marks a transition from Joseph’s individual story to the collective liberation of the Israelites. “She delivered the holy people” refers to the Israelites who were slaves in Egypt.

Wisdom of Solomon 10:16 (KJV): She entered into the soul of the servant of the Lord, and withstood dreadful kings in wonders and signs;

Wisdom of Solomon 10:16 (NKJV): She entered the soul of a servant of the Lord, and withstood dread kings with signs and wonders;

This verse refers to Moses, the “servant of the Lord” (ψυχὴν δούλου Κυρίου, psychēn doulou Kyriou). Wisdom “entered into the soul” (εἰσῆλθεν εἰς ψυχήν, eisēlthen eis psychēn), empowering him to confront “dreadful kings” (βασιλεῦσιν φοβεροῖς, basileusin phoberois), specifically Pharaoh, through “wonders and signs” (τέρασιν καὶ σημείοις, terasin kai sēmeiois) – the ten plagues.

Wisdom of Solomon 10:17 (KJV): Rendered to the righteous a reward of their labours, guided them in a marvellous way, and was unto them for a cover by day, and a light of stars by night.

Wisdom of Solomon 10:17 (NKJV): She gave the righteous a reward for their labors; she guided them along a marvelous way, and became a shelter to them by day and a starry flame through the night.

This verse describes God’s protection and guidance during the Exodus. Wisdom “rendered to the righteous a reward of their labours” (ἀπέδωκεν δικαίοις μισθὸν πόνων, apedōken dikaios misthon ponōn), freeing them from slavery. She “guided them in a marvellous way” (ὡδήγησεν αὐτοὺς ὁδῷ θαυμαστῇ, hōdēgēsen autous hodō thaumastē) through the wilderness, acting as “a cover by day” (ἐγένετο σκεπὴ ἡμέρας, egeneto skepē hēmeras) – the pillar of cloud – and “a light of stars by night” (καὶ φλὸξ ἀστέρων διὰ νυκτός, kai phlox asterōn dia nyktos) – the pillar of fire (Exodus 13:21).

Wisdom of Solomon 10:18 (KJV): Brought them through the Red sea, and led them through much water:

Wisdom of Solomon 10:18 (NKJV): She brought them across the Red Sea, and led them through much water.

This verse references the crossing of the Red Sea. Wisdom “brought them through the Red sea” (διήγαγεν αὐτοὺς διὰ θαλάσσης ἐρυθρᾶς, diēgagen autous dia thalassēs erythras), a miraculous event where God parted the waters to allow the Israelites to escape the pursuing Egyptian army (Exodus 14:21-31).

Wisdom of Solomon 10:19 (KJV): But she drowned their enemies, and cast them up out of the bottom of the deep.

Wisdom of Solomon 10:19 (NKJV): But she drowned their enemies, and cast them up from the depths of the sea.

This verse describes the destruction of the Egyptian army. “She drowned their enemies” (τοὺς δὲ ἐχθροὺς κατέποντισεν, tous de echthrous katepontisen), as the sea returned to its normal state, engulfing the pursuing Egyptians.

Wisdom of Solomon 10:20 (KJV): Therefore the righteous spoiled the ungodly, and praised thy holy name, O Lord, and magnified thy mercy, which hast been ever with them.

Wisdom of Solomon 10:20 (NKJV): Therefore the righteous plundered the ungodly; they sang praises to Your holy name, O Lord, and extolled Your protecting hand, which always fought on their behalf.

This verse describes the aftermath of the Exodus. “The righteous spoiled the ungodly” (ἐσκύλευσαν δίκαιοι ἀσεβεῖς, eskyleusan dikaioi asebeis) likely refers to the Israelites taking spoils from the Egyptians after the crossing of the Red Sea. They “praised thy holy name, O Lord” (ὕμνησαν τὸ ἅγιον ὄνομά σου, Κύριε, hymnēsan to hagion onoma sou, Kyrie) and “magnified thy mercy” (ἐδόξασαν τὴν χεῖρά σου, edoxasan tēn cheira sou), acknowledging God’s deliverance and protection.

Wisdom of Solomon 10:21 (KJV): For wisdom opened the mouth of the dumb, and made the tongues of them that cannot speak eloquent.

Wisdom of Solomon 10:21 (NKJV): Wisdom opened the mouths of the mute, and loosened the tongues of infants.

This verse emphasizes Wisdom’s transformative power. “Wisdom opened the mouth of the dumb” (σοφία ἔλυσε στόμα ἀλάλων, sophia elyse stoma alalōn), meaning she empowered those who were previously unable to speak to praise God and proclaim His truth. This is a metaphor for spiritual enlightenment and the ability to communicate God’s message effectively.

The Exodus is the quintessential story of liberation in the Old Testament, prefiguring the ultimate liberation from sin and death through Jesus Christ. The parting of the Red Sea is often seen as a type of baptism. St. Gregory of Nazianzus, in his orations, draws parallels between the Exodus and the Christian sacraments, highlighting the themes of liberation, purification, and new life. “Τὸ βάπτισμα λυτρωτήριον, ἀνακαίνισις τοῦ ἀνθρώπου” (To baptisma lytrōtērion, anakainisis tou anthrōpou), “Baptism is redemptive, a renewal of man” (Gregory of Nazianzus, *Oratio* 40, On Holy Baptism).

Spiritual Application: God can use even the most unlikely people to accomplish His purposes. Trust in God’s power to overcome any obstacle. Praise God for His deliverance and protection. Share your faith with others, and let your voice be used to proclaim God’s truth. Always seek God’s wisdom, direction, and discernment.

Wisdom’s Enduring Legacy 💡

The examples of Wisdom’s saving power teach several invaluable lessons:

• God is always present: From Adam to Moses, Wisdom demonstrates God’s constant involvement in human history.
• Salvation is a gift: Wisdom’s actions highlight that deliverance is an act of God’s grace, not human effort alone.
• Faith requires obedience: The stories of Noah, Abraham, and Lot emphasize the importance of heeding God’s call.
• God turns evil into good: Joseph’s story shows that God can use even the most challenging circumstances for His purposes.
• Wisdom empowers: Moses, empowered by Wisdom, leads the Israelites to freedom.

FAQ ❓

Q: How does the Wisdom of Solomon relate to Jesus Christ?
A: In Coptic Orthodox theology, Divine Wisdom (Sophia) is often linked to the Logos (Word) of God, who is Jesus Christ. The actions attributed to Wisdom in the Old Testament prefigure Christ’s saving work in the New Testament. Christ is the ultimate manifestation of God’s wisdom and the means by which humanity is redeemed.

Q: Why is Wisdom personified as a feminine figure?
A: In Hebrew (חָכְמָה, chokhmah) and Greek (Σοφία, Sophia), the word for wisdom is grammatically feminine. This personification isn’t meant to imply that God is female, but rather to highlight the nurturing, creative, and life-giving aspects of Divine Wisdom. Wisdom is not God himself, but a divine attribute in which God takes delight.

Q: What does the Wisdom of Solomon teach us about suffering?
A: The book shows that suffering is often a consequence of human wickedness. However, it also demonstrates that God is present with those who suffer, offering them protection, guidance, and ultimately deliverance. Suffering can also be a catalyst for spiritual growth and a means by which God reveals His power and love.

Q: How can we cultivate wisdom in our own lives?
A: According to the Coptic Orthodox tradition, wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord (Proverbs 9:10). We can cultivate wisdom through prayer, studying the scriptures, participating in the sacraments of the Church, and seeking the guidance of spiritual elders. True wisdom is not simply intellectual knowledge, but a deep understanding of God’s will and a commitment to living a righteous life. Consider adding more spiritual services to your life to increase your wisdom.

Conclusion 🕊️

Wisdom of Solomon 10 stands as a powerful testament to God’s unwavering presence and active involvement in human history. From rescuing Adam to leading the Israelites out of Egypt, Wisdom consistently intervenes to guide, protect, and ultimately save those who seek righteousness. It emphasizes that true wisdom lies in recognizing God’s sovereignty, trusting in His promises, and obeying His commands. Let the lessons of Wisdom of Solomon 10 inspire us to seek God’s wisdom in our own lives, knowing that He will never abandon those who call upon His name. Wisdom’s saving hand extends to each of us, offering hope, redemption, and the promise of eternal life.

Tags

Wisdom of Solomon, Coptic Orthodox, Theology, Salvation, Adam, Noah, Abraham, Exodus, Moses, Divine Wisdom, Sophia

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Explore Wisdom of Solomon 10: Discover Wisdom’s saving hand in history, from Adam to Moses, through a Coptic Orthodox lens. Find guidance for your faith journey.