### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **sophós**, represented by `{{G4680}}`, is a term for **wise** in a very general application. It appears **22 times** across **21 unique verses** in the Bible. The word is used to describe both the wisdom of God and the wisdom of humanity, often placing the two in direct and stark contrast.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{G4680}}` frequently serves to distinguish divine revelation from human intellect. Jesus gives thanks that the Father has hidden things from the **wise** and prudent, revealing them to "babes" instead ([[Matthew 11:25]]; [[Luke 10:21]]). This concept is echoed in Paul's writings, where he states that God chooses what is foolish in the world to confound the **wise** [[1 Corinthians 1:27]]. To be truly **wise**, one who seems **wise** in this world must become a fool [[1 Corinthians 3:18]]. Conversely, the term is applied positively to God, who is called the "only **wise** God" ([[Jude 1:25]]; [[1 Timothy 1:17]]), and to believers, who are instructed to walk as **wise** [[Ephesians 5:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of wisdom and its opposite:
* `{{G4678}}` **sophía** (wisdom): As the noun form of `sophós`, this word signifies the quality of wisdom itself. It is used when God declares He will destroy the "**wisdom** of the wise" [[1 Corinthians 1:19]].
* `{{G781}}` **ásophos** (unwise): This is the direct antonym, used to contrast believers' conduct: "not as **fools**, but as **wise**" [[Ephesians 5:15]].
* `{{G3474}}` **mōrós** (foolish): This word for what is dull or stupid is set against `sophós`. God chose the **foolish** things to confound the **wise** [[1 Corinthians 1:27]], and one must become a **fool** to be **wise** [[1 Corinthians 3:18]].
* `{{G4908}}` **synetós** (prudent): Often appearing alongside `sophós`, this term refers to one who is sagacious. God hides spiritual truth from the "**wise** and **prudent**" to show that human intelligence cannot grasp it on its own [[Matthew 11:25]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4680}}` is significant, primarily in its portrayal of two conflicting forms of wisdom.
* **Rejection of Worldly Wisdom:** The Bible consistently shows that human-centered wisdom is not only insufficient but can be an impediment to knowing God. Paul asks, "hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world?" [[1 Corinthians 1:20]]. Those "professing themselves to be **wise**... became fools" [[Romans 1:22]].
* **The Supremacy of God's Wisdom:** True wisdom is presented as an inherent attribute of God. He is the "only **wise** God" [[Romans 16:27]], and His wisdom is so far above man's that "the foolishness of God is **wiser** than men" [[1 Corinthians 1:25]].
* **The Believer's Mandate:** Christians are called to a practical, godly wisdom. Paul, as a "**wise** masterbuilder," laid a foundation by God's grace [[1 Corinthians 3:10]]. This wisdom is demonstrated through a person's good works and meekness [[James 3:13]] and is to be applied to what is good while remaining simple concerning evil [[Romans 16:19]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4680}}` is far more than a simple adjective. It is a pivotal word used to contrast the arrogant, self-sufficient wisdom of the world with the humble, revealed wisdom that originates from God. It underscores the biblical theme of spiritual inversion, where God chooses the weak and foolish to shame the strong and **wise**. The term defines a core attribute of God and sets forth a clear call for believers to seek and live by a wisdom not their own.
TRV