Paul Engle: 'Wisdom is knowing when you can't be wise.'

Wisdom is knowing when you can't be wise.

Paul Engle's quote, 'Wisdom is knowing when you can't be wise,' may initially come across as a paradoxical statement, but upon deeper reflection, it holds a profound truth about the nature of wisdom. Essentially, the quote highlights the importance of self-awareness and humility in the pursuit of wisdom. It suggests that true wisdom lies not only in possessing knowledge and understanding but also in recognizing the limitations of one's own wisdom. In a way, it implies that being wise involves accepting the fact that there are situations or aspects of life where our knowledge or insights may fall short.This idea of acknowledging the boundaries of one's wisdom invokes an interesting philosophical concept known as the concept of 'apophatic wisdom' or 'negative wisdom.' This concept is rooted in the notion that true knowledge and understanding often come through recognizing what we do not know or cannot know, rather than focusing solely on what we are capable of knowing. In some philosophical traditions, such as Taoism or certain schools of existentialism, the acceptance of limitations and embracing the unknown is seen as a path to deeper insight and wisdom.In contrast to the typical understanding of wisdom as the accumulation of knowledge and experience, the concept of apophatic wisdom challenges us to explore the realm of uncertainty and mystery. By acknowledging our limitations and accepting that there are aspects of life that surpass our comprehension, we open ourselves up to new perspectives and possibilities. This approach encourages a sense of humility and openness to learning from the unknown, leading to a more profound and nuanced understanding of the world and ourselves.In conclusion, Paul Engle's quote serves as a reminder that true wisdom involves not only the pursuit of knowledge and insight but also the recognition of our own limitations. By embracing the concept of apophatic wisdom and being open to the mysteries and uncertainties of life, we may find a different kind of wisdom—one that transcends traditional boundaries and offers a deeper, more profound connection to the profound truths of existence.