Why must the wise not boast in their wisdom, the mighty not boast in their might and the rich not boast in their riches?
The theme of this oracle (Jeremiah 9:23–26) changes from lament and focuses on the nature of true wisdom and circumcision of the heart. The reason for including this passage here is that in the midst of the tragedy that is coming to Judah, what the nation desperately needs is true wisdom and hearts that are committed to the Lord.1
True wisdom is defined in negative terms. Wisdom,
might,
and riches
are three things that people can turn to for a false sense of security and well-being. The truly wise person will recognize that this is not the case and they will not place their confidence in any of these things.2
23 Thus says the LORD: “Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, let not the mighty man boast in his might, let not the rich man boast in his riches,