Lately, there has been an alarming trend whereby certain individuals and groups are distancing themselves from practices such as fact-checking, scientific research, academic inquiry, and higher education. This shift reflects a broader societal change in how information and knowledge are valued. Throughout history, societies have learned that ignorance has serious consequences, including social upheavals and public health crises. In 1905, George Santayana emphasized the importance of learning from history in his work “The Life of Reason,” where he wrote, “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” “The Life of Reason” is likely already the target of a banned book list.

It’s important to note that ignorance refers to a lack of knowledge or awareness, or the concept of being uninformed. Ignorance is not a reflection of one’s ability to learn, but rather a current state of understanding. People have the potential to seek out and embrace knowledge if they choose to do so.

The groups who are currently in the habit of eschewing knowledge often cite the Bible as a reason to remain ignorant, but this book actually serves as a suitable reference to refute the idea that ignorance should be embraced or celebrated. The Bible frequently addresses the behavior and fate of fools—those who reject wisdom and understanding. In this blog post, we’ll explore how the Bible depicts fools and the lessons we can draw from these portrayals.

Rejecting Wisdom and Guidance

One of the most striking characteristics of a fool, according to the Bible, is their disdain for wisdom and guidance. Proverbs 1:7 states, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.” This verse sets the tone for understanding the biblical perspective on fools. Their rejection of wisdom isn’t merely ignorance; it’s a willful act that distances them from the divine truth (or any truth).

Self-Deception and Arrogance

Fools often deceive themselves, believing their ways to be right despite contrary advice. Proverbs 12:15 highlights this: “The way of fools seems right to them, but the wise listen to advice.” This self-deception is compounded by arrogance, as seen in Proverbs 18:2: “Fools find no pleasure in understanding but delight in airing their own opinions.” Their preference for their own misguided thoughts over true understanding leads to their downfall. And that’s not just, like, my opinion, man.

Destructive Speech

The words of fools are another focal point in the Bible. Ecclesiastes 10:12-14 describes the destructive nature of a fool’s speech: “Words from the mouth of the wise are gracious, but fools are consumed by their own lips.” Fools not only speak folly but also spread negativity and confusion, further entrenching themselves in ignorance.

Repeating Mistakes

Fools are also depicted as those who repeatedly make the same mistakes. Proverbs 26:11 provides a vivid metaphor: “As a dog returns to its vomit, so fools repeat their folly.” This highlights their inability or unwillingness to learn from past errors, perpetuating a cycle of ignorance.

Ignoring Jesus’ Teachings

In the New Testament, Jesus Himself warns against foolishness. In Matthew 7:26-27, He compares those who ignore His teachings to a foolish man who built his house on sand: “The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.” This parable illustrates the dire consequences of ignoring wisdom.

The Bible’s portrayal of fools serves as a powerful warning against ignorance. Rejecting wisdom, engaging in self-deception, speaking destructively, repeating mistakes, and ignoring Jesus’ teachings are all characteristics of a fool. By understanding these biblical insights, we can strive to avoid the sin of ignorance and seek true wisdom and understanding.