Prudence

Prudence - (Webster's 1828 Dictionary)

PRU'DENCE, n. [L. prudentia.] Wisdom applied to practice.

Prudence implies caution in deliberating and consulting on the most suitable means to accomplish valuable purposes, and the exercise of sagacity in discerning and selecting them. Prudence differs from wisdom in this, that prudence implies more caution and reserve than wisdom, or is exercised more in foreseeing and avoiding evil, than in devising and executing that which is good. It is sometimes mere caution or circumspection.

Prudence is principally in reference to actions to be done, and due means, order, season and method of doing or not doing.

Prudent - (Webster's 1828 Dictionary)

PRU'DENT, a. Cautious; circumspect; practically wise; careful of the consequences of enterprises, measures or actions; cautious not to act when the end is of doubtful utility, or probably impracticable.

The prudent man looketh well to his going. Prov 14.

A prudent man foreseeth the evil and hideth himself. Prov 22.

1. Dictated or directed by prudence; as prudent behavior.

2. Foreseeing by instinct; as the prudent crane.

3. Frugal; economical; as a prudent woman; prudent expenditure of money.

4. Wise; intelligent.

proo'-dens, proo'-dent: In the Old Testament "prudence" is the translation of `ormah (Pr 8:12); also in the King James Version of sekhel (2Ch 2:12, the Revised Version (British and American) "discretion"); and "prudent" is the translation of `arum, "subtle" (Pr 12:16,23; 13:16, etc.; compare Ge 3:1; Job 5:12), and of bin (1Sa 16:18, the Revised Version margin "skillful"; Pr 16:21; 18:15; Isa 5:21; 10:13, the American Standard Revised Version "understanding," etc.), with other words. In the New Testament "prudence" occurs once as the translation of phronesis (Eph 1:8); "prudent" is in the King James Version the translation of sunetos, changed in the Revised Version (British and American) to "understanding" (Mt 11:25; Ac 13:7); in 1Co 1:19, the American Standard Revised Version has "the discerning," the English Revised Version retains "prudent." In its etymological sense of seeing beforehand (contraction of "providence"), "prudence" does not occur in the New Testament. As forethought, foresight, prudence was reckoned one of the cardinal virtues by the ancient ethical writers. See the remarks of Coleridge on its lower and higher character in his Aids to Reflection, Aphor. 29.

W. L. Walker

Definition

The term “prudent” describes a person who thinks carefully about his actions and makes wise decisions.

• Often “prudence” refers to the ability to make wise decisions about practical, physical matters, such as in managing money or property.
• Although “prudence” and “wisdom” are similar in meaning, often “wisdom” is more general and focuses on spiritual or moral matters.
• Depending on the context, “prudent” could also be translated as “shrewd” or “careful” or “wise.”

(See also: shrewd, spirit, wise)

Bible References

• Proverbs 8:4-5
• Proverbs 12:23-24
• Proverbs 27:12

Word Data

• Strong’s: H0995, H5843, H6175, H6191, H6195, H7919, H7922