KNOWLEDGE AND WISDOM

What is the difference between knowledge and wisdom? Why do the ancient sages including Lao Tzu consider wisdom to be more important than knowledge?

People often say that knowledge is power, but what exactly is knowledge? The dictionary says it can be defined as an acquaintance with facts, a familiarity with information. Knowledge is all about data.

Wisdom is what knowledge transforms into when it is taken from books and applied to life. Thus, knowledge is an intellectual abstraction, while wisdom is the experience that is tied to reality. An excellent way to express the difference is through the imagery of the Tao sages: knowledge is a tool we can use to dig for answers; wisdom is the treasure that we eventually unearth.

The Tao Today

Some students of the Tao make the mistake of studying for knowledge instead of wisdom. They end up with a lot of information about the Tao, while overlooking the great benefits of its practical application to life.

Do not waste the teachings that way. Process every piece of knowledge you gain through real-life application. It is only true and useful if it works. Transform knowledge into wisdom.

The Tao of Joy Every Day

~ Derek Lin