In this post, we’ll unpack all you need to know about knowledge versus wisdom, defining exactly what they are, the differences between them and how they influence us and more.
What Is Knowledge?
Knowledge refers to the understanding of information within a specific context. More simply, knowledge is the awareness of facts.
What Is Wisdom?
Wisdom refers to the ability to use knowledge within a specific context to make good decisions. More simply, wisdom is the application of facts.
“Wisdom is highest of all five virtues.” — Buddha
The Difference Between Knowledge & Wisdom
Knowledge is the awareness of information. Wisdom is the application of information.
Knowledge must be obtained. Wisdom must be developed.
Knowledge is knowing what. Wisdom is knowing when.
Knowledge creates understanding. Wisdom creates action.
Knowledge is harnessed through the mind. Wisdom is harnessed through the soul.
Knowledge is indiscriminate. Wisdom is discriminate.
Knowledge allows you to discern whether something is true or false. Wisdom allows you to discern whether something is right or wrong.
“Knowledge is knowing that a tomato is a fruit, wisdom is not putting it in a fruit salad.” — Miles Kington
Knowledge Versus Wisdom Table Summary
Below is a table that summarises the differences between knowledge and wisdom.
| Knowledge | Wisdom |
|---|---|
| Awareness Of Information | Application Of Information |
| Obtained | Developed |
| What | When |
| Understanding | Action |
| Mind | Soul |
| Indiscriminate | Discriminate |
| True Or False | Right Or Wong |
“In pursuit of knowledge, everyday something is gained. In pursuit of wisdom, everyday something is dropped.” — Lao Tzu
Why Understanding Both Is Important
Understanding what both knowledge and wisdom are and recognising the differences between them is important because it allows you to make better decisions and ultimately more effectively achieve your goals and the life you desire.
In doing so, you become the Master of your Destiny instead of a Slave to your Fate.
“The quality of our thinking cannot be higher than the quality of the information that it is based on.” — Daniel Kahneman
Summary (TL;DR)
Knowledge refers to the awareness of information within a specific context. Wisdom refers to the application of information within a specific context.
While knowledge must be obtained through the mind and creates understanding, wisdom must be developed through the soul and creates action. While knowledge allows you to discern whether something is true or false, wisdom allows you to discern whether something is right or wrong.
Understanding what both knowledge and wisdom are and recognising the differences between them arms you with the ability to make better decisions and more effectively achieve your goals and the life you desire.
