Solomon employs the Hebrew word for wisdom, chokmah, to signify skill in living and in relationships with others. Yet, it is evident that those expected to exhibit wisdom—such as the aged, the expert, and the influential—often display little of it. God's knowledge, as conveyed through Solomon, leads to wisdom, and nothing compares to it, for wisdom is better than rubies, and all the things one may desire cannot be compared with her. The so-called wise of this world often fail to recognize their foolishness, pursuing priorities that hold no value beyond the grave. God has granted us far greater riches through His wisdom, which we must guard diligently, building each day on the knowledge gained from living His way of life.

The primary Hebrew word for wisdom is chokmah (Strong's 2451), a feminine noun used 145 times in the Old Testament, meaning skillful, wisdom, or wisely. Solomon employs chokmah 41 times in Proverbs and 28 times in Ecclesiastes, accounting for nearly half of its biblical occurrences. Chokmah indicates wisdom but can also refer to technical skills or special abilities, as seen with the artisans in Exodus whom God used to craft items for the Tabernacle. Solomon uses chokmah to signify the right use of knowledge, applying common sense, or demonstrating skill in living and in relationships with others. This kind of wisdom accumulates over time through experience. Solomon himself possessed great wisdom, yet he made foolish choices in his dealings with women and foreign gods, showing that even profound wisdom can be lost if not maintained. In Proverbs 1:1-7, the purpose of the proverbs is to know wisdom and instruction, to perceive understanding, and to receive the instruction of wisdom, justice, judgment, and equity. Wisdom and instruction are paired together, emphasizing that a wise person listens and increases learning. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, which is essential to gaining wisdom, while fools despise wisdom and instruction.

The Hebrew word *chokmah* (H2451), often translated as wisdom, appears frequently in Ecclesiastes and Proverbs, carrying a nuanced meaning distinct from common English usage. Unlike sagacity, *chokmah* primarily denotes skill, particularly skill in living according to God's Word. As first used in Exodus 28:3, it indicates technical skills or abilities, such as crafting ornaments or designing, but in the contexts of Proverbs and Ecclesiastes, it specifically refers to skill in the principles that control and direct human living at its highest and best. This skill leads to the knowledge of God, emphasizing a practical application in life. Acquiring *chokmah* requires determined practice and effort, much like any other skill. It does not appear miraculously but demands hard work, as exemplified by Solomon, who had to participate with God through trials and experiences to gain it. This process involves gathering knowledge with concentrated effort, meditating, seeking counsel, and applying understanding practically. The linkage between *chokmah* and understanding is vital, as they are closely related, almost inseparable, with wisdom being supreme and worth any cost to obtain. In essence, *chokmah* within the framework of Proverbs and Ecclesiastes is about making right choices at the right time for the right reasons. It represents skill in living that leads to success in life, aligning one's decisions with God's guidance to achieve a purposeful and meaningful existence.