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H7919 · Hebrew · Old Testament
שָׂכַל
sakal
Verb
to be prudent, wise, give insight, prosper

Definition

To act with wise understanding and consequent success. The Servant of the LORD 'will act wisely' (sakal, Isa 52:13); David 'acted wisely' wherever Saul sent him (1 Sam 18:5). Wisdom leads to success.

Usage & Theological Significance

Joshua is commanded to meditate on the Torah so that he will act wisely and succeed (Josh 1:8). The connection between wisdom and success in sakal is not material prosperity but aligned living.

Key Bible Verses

Isaiah 52:13 Behold, my servant shall act wisely [sakal]; he shall be high and lifted up.
Joshua 1:8 You shall meditate on it day and night...for then you will make your way prosperous and have good success [sakal].
Proverbs 10:19 Whoever restrains his lips is prudent [sakal].

Word Study

Isaiah 52:13 opens the fourth Servant Song with sakal — the Servant will act wisely. The rest of the song shows the Servant's 'wisdom' was the path through suffering to glory — a redefinition of success.

Related Words

External Resources

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