Ancient Wisdom for Modern Mediators
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On emerging from a rather taxing meeting a phrase popped into my mind which has done so regularly since I started mediating. It runs “a soft answer turns away wrath” and it is to be found in the biblical book of Proverbs. It will resonate with anyone faced with hostility: anger can be contained by refusing to respond in kind. It’s a commonplace for mediators to stay calm and steady while the temperature rises and discover that afterwards, when the dust has settled, the person who was angry has not only calmed down but is both apologetic and grateful. It struck me that, if this ancient wisdom tradition could so eloquently convey a universal truth, it may have more to offer.
The Wisdom Tradition
The book of Proverbs belongs to the Jewish wisdom tradition. It is a collection of sayings probably dating from somewhere between 800 and 400 BC, although many have their roots in earlier traditions.
Some observations about wisdom:
- wisdom is universal, a code of right thinking or natural law that applies to all situations – two of the collections of sayings are attributed to foreign wise men
- wisdom ran counter to the hierarchical structure of the monarchy, where authority was derived from status – in this tradition authority depends on being wise, or adhering to the code of wisdom
- wisdom is personified as female (see biologos.org/blog/genesis-creation-and-ancient-interpreters-part-ii )
- wisdom is a peacemaking tradition, in keeping with the Jewish concept of “shalom”, where peace is not merely the absence of conflict but has to be actively pursued using justice and fairness
- wisdom can be learned – see Proverbs 4:7 “Get wisdom and whatever you get, get insight”
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