Prudence

Prudence (arum, sekel in Hebrew; phronesis in Greek) is the practical wisdom to discern the right course of action in particular circumstances — the application of wisdom to real-life decisions. Proverbs presents it as one of the central virtues: "The prudent sees danger and hides himself" (Prov. 22:3; 27:12), contrasted with the simple who blunder ahead. The prudent person weighs words carefully (Prov. 12:23), governs appetite (Prov. 23:1–3), and acts with forethought.

The personified Wisdom of Proverbs 8 identifies herself with prudence (Prov. 8:12). In the NT, Jesus commends prudence in his disciples: "Be wise (prudent) as serpents and innocent as doves" (Matt. 10:16). The parable of the wise and foolish builders (Matt. 7:24–27) and the ten virgins (Matt. 25:1–13) contrast prudent preparation with foolish negligence. Paul's prayer for the Ephesians includes that they receive "the Spirit of wisdom and of revelation" (Eph. 1:17), and his letter opens by blessing God who has lavished upon us "all wisdom and insight (prudence)" in Christ (Eph. 1:8).