Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Botanical Context: Sage, known scientifically as Salvia, is a genus of plants in the mint family, Lamiaceae. While the specific plant commonly referred to as "sage" today, Salvia officinalis, is not directly mentioned in the Bible, the concept of sage as a wise person is deeply rooted in biblical literature. The plant itself is valued for its culinary, medicinal, and aromatic properties, and it is possible that similar herbs were used in ancient times for various purposes. Wisdom and the Sage in Scripture: In the biblical context, a "sage" is often synonymous with a wise person, someone who possesses and imparts wisdom. The Bible places a high value on wisdom, often personifying it and associating it with the fear of the Lord. Proverbs 1:7 states, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline." This verse underscores the biblical view that true wisdom begins with reverence for God. Old Testament References: The Old Testament frequently highlights the role of wise individuals, or sages, in Israelite society. These individuals were often sought for counsel and guidance. For example, King Solomon is renowned for his wisdom, which he received from God. In 1 Kings 4:29-34 , it is written, "And God gave Solomon wisdom, exceedingly deep insight, and understanding beyond measure, like the sand on the seashore. Solomon’s wisdom was greater than that of all the men of the East, greater than all the wisdom of Egypt." The Book of Proverbs, traditionally attributed to Solomon, is a collection of sayings and teachings that reflect the wisdom of the sages. Proverbs 13:20 advises, "He who walks with the wise will become wise, but the companion of fools will be destroyed." New Testament Insights: In the New Testament, wisdom continues to be a significant theme. Jesus Christ is depicted as the ultimate source of wisdom. In Matthew 12:42 , Jesus refers to Himself in relation to Solomon, saying, "The Queen of the South will rise at the judgment with this generation and condemn it, for she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon, and now one greater than Solomon is here." The Apostle Paul also emphasizes the importance of wisdom in the life of believers. In Colossians 3:16 , he writes, "Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God." Symbolism and Application: Sage, as a symbol of wisdom, can be seen as a metaphor for the pursuit of godly wisdom. Just as the plant is used for its healing and aromatic properties, so too is wisdom seen as beneficial and life-giving. James 1:5 encourages believers to seek wisdom from God: "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him." In summary, while the specific plant known as sage is not mentioned in the Bible, the concept of wisdom and the role of the sage are integral to biblical teaching. Wisdom is portrayed as a divine gift, essential for living a life that honors God and benefits others. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) A suffruticose labiate plant (Salvia officinalis) with grayish green foliage, much used in flavoring meats, etc. The name is often extended to the whole genus, of which many species are cultivated for ornament, as the scarlet sage, and Mexican red and blue sage.2. (n.) The sagebrush. 3. (superl.) Having nice discernment and powers of judging; prudent; grave; sagacious. 4. (superl.) Proceeding from wisdom; well judged; shrewd; well adapted to the purpose. 5. (superl.) Grave; serious; solemn. 6. (n.) A wise man; a man of gravity and wisdom; especially, a man venerable for years, and of sound judgment and prudence; a grave philosopher. Strong's Hebrew 2450. chakam -- wise... Word Origin from chakam Definition wise NASB Word Usage expert (1), men who are skillful (1), sage (1), shrewd (2), skilled (2), skilled men (3), skilled men ... /hebrew/2450.htm - 6k Library The Writings of Israel's Philosophers Jean Jacques Rousseau. Fourth Tractate. Our Tutelary Spirit. Fourth Tractate. On True Happiness. The Hebrew Sages and their Proverbs The Stage as it was Once. Discipline Grundtvig's Later Years The Burial of Moses 'A Greater than Solomon' Thesaurus Sage (1 Occurrence)... The name is often extended to the whole genus, of which many species are cultivated for ornament, as the scarlet sage, and Mexican red and blue sage. ... /s/sage.htm - 7k Sagacious (1 Occurrence) Epicureans (1 Occurrence) Job (60 Occurrences) Wizard (3 Occurrences) Teaching (372 Occurrences) Eliphaz (14 Occurrences) Perfumer (4 Occurrences) Perfume (202 Occurrences) Shagee (1 Occurrence) Resources What does the Bible say about smudging? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is Stoicism? What did the Greek Stoics teach? | GotQuestions.org Who was King Lemuel in Proverbs 31? | GotQuestions.org Sage: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Sage (1 Occurrence)Jeremiah 18:18 Subtopics Related Terms |
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