In our reflection for August 1st, I suggested that we read the parables of the pearls in terms of human calculating wisdom. Both the first reading and the Gospel today talk once again about wisdom, but together teach us to distinguish divine and human wisdom. In general, we may say the Bible recognizes these two types of wisdom, namely divine wisdom and human wisdom. In speaking about the "folly of the Cross", Paul clearly indicates that he is speaking about divine wisdom. This is a wisdom which gives without counting the cost.

Many of Jesus' parables deal with the human wisdom which allows us to understand the Kingdom of God through a simple understanding of ordinary human things. The human wisdom in question is often wisdom of a calculating kind. Thus the five foolish virgins had not calculated correctly either the amount of oil they required or the time required to go to buy it. In other parables, Jesus spoke about calculating the cost of building a house and the cost of going to war. (Luke 14:28-33) and spoke of the necessity of renunciation in order to become his disciples: renunciation and self-control are necessary forms of wisdom.