From the viewpoint of theosophy or “Ancient Wisdom,” wisdom is the aggregate of the knowledge and insights underlying all the esoteric traditions in all civilizations. It may be described as the faculty of BUDDHI — seeing things as they really are with a resultant discrimination in action. Unlike mental knowledge, wisdom stresses quality above quantity, the indwelling life above the outer form, the principles above the details, assimilation above accumulation, living above intellection. It involves the right use of knowledge rather than just knowledge itself. When things are seen in the right perspective and relation, i.e., wisely, the result is love. According to theosophical principles, its development depends on living a pure life as well as having unselfish motives and humility.

M.A.

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