And by thy wisdom hast formed man: This line is closely parallel to the previous line, thus virtually equating Wisdom with God’s word; compare John 1.3. The verb translated hast formed implies shaping something for a purpose. That purpose will be expressed in the next three lines (verses 2b-3).

To have dominion over the creatures thou hast made: Compare Gen 1.26, 28; Psa 8.6-8; Sir 17.2.

An alternative model for this verse is:

• You used your wisdom to create human beings, so that they could rule over all your creation [or, all the things you have made].

Quoted with permission from Bullard, Roger A. and Hatton, Howard A. A Handbook on The Wisdom of Solomon. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 2004. For this and other handbooks for translators see here.