The Meanings of Wisdom

Wisdom is used in two meanings: literal and technical. The latter indicates philosophy and is applied in two limited and non-limited ways. Philosophers define wisdom in terms of subject-matter, problems and aim for it. Mulla Sadra for instance defines wisdom in a general way that includes both theoretical and practical wisdoms. Ibn Sina considers wisdom to be the perfection of the human soul. Philosopher Sabzavari describes wisdom as means by which man can be drastically changed into real realm corresponding to the external world. IbnArabi regards wisdom to be judgment on the existence and essence of things out of realization without any imitation. This article has a critical review on the viewpoints of these prominent philosophers on the definition, subject-matter and aim of wisdom as field of study.