8:14–17
In these verses, the Hebrew pronouns that the Berean Standard Bible translates as “mine,” “I,” and “me” occur in an emphatic position. In some languages, this emphasis may be expressed by saying “It is I who…” or “I am the one who….” For example, a translation of 8:14 may say:
I am the one who gives good advice so that people are able to make successful plans. I also am the source of intelligence and power.
8:14
Notice the parallel parts that are similar in meaning:
14a
Counsel and sound judgment are mine ;
14b
I have insight and strength.
8:14a–b
are mine; I have: In this verse and in 8:15, Wisdom claims to possess the qualities or abilities that rulers need in order to govern well. These verses imply that Wisdom not only has these qualities herself, but that she is the one who provides them to rulers. In some languages, it may be helpful to make this explicit. For example:
From me come advice and ability. (Revised English Bible)
8:14a
Counsel: The word Counsel is a general word meaning “advice,” but in this context, it refers mainly to political and military advice. It also indicates the ability to think about a situation and make good plans. (Notice the Good News Translation translation: “I make plans.”) So it has a very similar meaning to “sound judgment.”
sound judgment: This second term (tušiyyah in Hebrew) means “competence” in this context. It describes someone who is able to think clearly and practically to decide what action should be taken in a particular situation.
8:14b
I have insight and strength: The word insight means “intelligence.”
The word strength refers to political or military power.
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