The goal of Hebrew wisdom was a proper relationship to Yahweh, the very God of Wisdom (Job 12:13; Isa. 31:1-2). The Old Testament expression “the fear of the Lord” best conveys this relational dimension of Hebrew wisdom (Ps. 111:10; Prov. 1:7). The fear of the Lord was the source of Hebrew wisdom and actually connoted a complex of interrelated attitudes and actions:
1. The desire to get understanding that arises from a choice grounded in the human will (Prov. 1:29; 2:5).
2. Awe and reverence of the God of creation and redemption that elicits genuine worship and willing obedience to his commands (Prov. 24:21).
3. Dread at God’s holiness and trepidation of his divine judgment (Eccl. 12:13-14).
4. Faith and trust in God’s plan for human life, and a rejection of self-reliance (Ps. 115:11; Prov. 3:5-6).
5. Hating and avoiding evil, and refusing to envy sinners (Prov. 3:7; 9:13; 16:6; 23:17).
6. Generally the reward of prosperity and long life to the prudent (Prov. 10:27; 14:27; 19:23).
7. Disciplined instruction that instills wisdom, humility, and honor (Prov. 15:33; 22:4).
-excerpt from Hebrew Poetic and Wisdom Literature by Andrew Hill and John Walton