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Book of Ecclesiastes - Chapter 10 - Verse 10

10:10
If the iron be blunt, and he do not whet the edge, then must he put to more strength: but wisdom is profitable to direct.

Meaning

Proverbs 10:10 discusses the importance of wisdom and foresight in our actions. The verse uses a metaphor to illustrate this concept, comparing a blunt iron that requires more effort to cut something to someone who lacks wisdom and must exert more energy to achieve their goals. It suggests that without sharpness, or wisdom, one must rely solely on strength and brute force to accomplish tasks. This verse serves as a reminder that possessing wisdom not only makes tasks easier to accomplish but also enables one to do so more efficiently. By sharpening our proverbial "blades" through acquiring knowledge and understanding, we are better equipped to navigate life's challenges with skill and precision. Ultimately, the verse emphasizes the value of wisdom in guiding our decisions and actions towards success and fulfillment.

Theological Overview

In this verse, the concept of wisdom is presented as a valuable asset that can make tasks easier and more efficient. The imagery of sharpening a blunt tool, in this case, iron, is used to illustrate the importance of wisdom in guiding one's actions. If the tool is not sharpened, more effort is required to achieve the desired outcome. This can be seen as a metaphor for life - without wisdom, one may need to exert more effort to navigate challenges and achieve goals. The word "whet" refers to the action of sharpening or honing, suggesting that wisdom is essential for ensuring that one's actions are effective and fruitful. The phrase "wisdom is profitable to direct" highlights the benefits of wisdom in providing guidance and direction in one's endeavors. Ultimately, this verse underscores the importance of cultivating wisdom to make informed decisions and achieve success with greater ease.

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