Wisdom In Chaim Potok's The Chosen

Author, musician, and broadcaster, Miles Kington said, ”Knowledge is knowing that a tomato is a fruit. Wisdom is not putting it in a fruit salad.” This quote defines wisdom and knowledge simply, showing the difference between the two. The use of wisdom adds on to knowledge, not only knowing a tomato is a fruit, but also that it does not go with a regular fruit salad. Chaim Potok, author of The Chosen, writes about three characters, Reb Saunders, David Malter, and Danny Saunders. The theme of wisdom runs throughout the book, through these characters. David and Reb teach and lead many people, having the wisdom to know what and when to speak or act according to the situation. Danny’s father taught him well from a young age and shows wisdom in his school and home life. Three characters, David, Reb, and Danny, demonstrate a major theme of wisdom in the book, The Chosen. …show more content…
He remains wise not only at work, but at home for his son, Reuven. When Danny, the one who hurt Reuven and put him in the hospital, comes to apologize, Reuven gets angry and does not accept his apology. When Mr. Malter hears about this, he immediately rebukes his son, saying “You did a foolish thing, Reuven,’ he told me sternly. ‘You remember what the Talmud says. If a person comes to apologize for having hurt you, you must listen and forgive him’” (64.) His wisdom leads to a great friendship between the two boys. David also writes and teaches with wisdom. During times of trouble and sorrow, David not only takes it upon his shoulders, but knows what to say and gives comfort to many around him (226.) Hard tasks, such as knowing what to say takes the wisdom such as that of David