The Cry of Wisdom

In Proverbs 1:20-21, we hear Wisdom crying out in the streets and the marketplaces, calling out to the simple and the fools:  "Wisdom crieth without; she uttereth her voice in the streets: She crieth in the chief place of concourse, in the openings of the gates: in the city she uttereth her words." This art echoes that cry, with the orb at the center radiating light, its beams cutting through the darkness, attempting to reach those whose hearts are still open to understanding.  

In the top left of the image, we see ancient scrolls, symbolizing the knowledge passed down through generations—wisdom offered freely to those who would listen. Yet, as in the Proverb, many refuse the call. The shadows in the image represent those who turn away, embodying Proverbs 1:22-23:  "How long, ye simple ones, will ye love simplicity? and the scorners delight in their scorning, and fools hate knowledge? Turn you at my reproof: behold, I will pour out my spirit unto you, I will make known my words unto you." The art captures the contrast between those who embrace wisdom and those who reject it, their figures faint and obscured in the darkness.  

Wisdom's plea turns into sorrowful reproof, expressed in the dimming light in the corners of the image, as seen in Proverbs 1:24-26:  "Because I have called, and ye refused; I have stretched out my hand, and no man regarded; But ye have set at nought all my counsel, and would none of my reproof: I also will laugh at your calamity; I will mock when your fear cometh." The fading light in the background represents the impending calamity for those who continue to reject wisdom. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of ignoring divine guidance.  

The art draws a direct connection to real life. In today’s fast-paced digital world, the cries of wisdom often go unheard amidst the noise of distractions and fleeting pleasures. The internet offers vast amounts of information, but without the guidance of wisdom, knowledge can be misused, leading to confusion, folly, and eventual downfall. The Proverb speaks to this, warning that the rejection of wisdom brings consequences not only in spiritual matters but also in practical, everyday life. In this digital age, Wisdom’s voice may still be heard—through scripture, through the wise words of elders, and through deep reflection on the knowledge available. Yet, just as in the ancient world, many turn away, seeking their own path until calamity strikes.  

The piece reminds us of the importance of heeding wisdom’s call. In both ancient and modern contexts, listening to Wisdom can guide one away from destruction and toward a life illuminated by understanding and righteousness. It emphasizes that wisdom is not just something to be learned but something to be lived and embraced. And in the end, wisdom will always have the last word for those who seek her.  

Through this powerful visual metaphor, the art invites reflection on the choices we make daily, the counsel we accept or reject, and the wisdom we choose to pursue or ignore. It is a sobering reminder that Wisdom is always calling, but it is up to us whether we will respond before it is too late.