Wisdom's response to the seeker: 'Wisdom is supreme; therefore get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.' 'Wisdom is supreme' (reshit be'emet hokhmah) positions wisdom first, above all other goods. The imperative to get understanding 'though it cost all you have' (bechol kinoyancha) indicates that no price is too high for wisdom. This is hyperbolic language meant to shock the young person into recognizing wisdom's absolute priority. In the ancient world, to urge someone to give up all possessions was an extreme statement. It indicates that wisdom surpasses all material goods in value. The young person must be willing to sacrifice conventional goods if necessary to obtain understanding.

COMMUNITY REFLECTIONS

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