True wisdom is defined by a person's inner focus and the direction of their thoughts. The contrast between wisdom and foolishness is not about physical location, but rather where consciousness resides. It is a choice between contemplating the ultimate meaning and end of life, or becoming entirely consumed by passing, momentary pleasures. The mind of a wise person is constantly aware of life's finality [רש״י]. Even when they are not physically present in a place of loss or mourning, the reality of human mortality remains firmly in their thoughts [אבן עזרא]. This awareness is not rooted in sadness. Instead, it comes from a deep desire to reflect on the future and the true purpose of human existence [ביאור שטיינזלץ].
Keeping this reality in mind humbles the heart, protecting a person from sin and driving them to fulfill the Commandments [מצודת דוד, צאינה וראינה]. One approach compares this awareness to a servant sent to find a valuable bargain, who naturally goes to the place where the most people gather. Since mortality is the shared destiny of all people, the deepest truth of human existence is found in recognizing this shared fate [תורה תמימה]. Paradoxically, reflecting on sorrow and the end of life actually brings a constant sense of inner well-being to the wise [תעלומות חכמה]. By humbling themselves through this awareness, they ultimately merit that God will grant them true joy [תורה תמימה].
Conversely, those lacking wisdom direct their attention entirely toward present enjoyments, immersing themselves in drinking, dancing, and frivolous behavior [מצודת דוד, ביאור שטיינזלץ, צאינה וראינה]. They live in a complete illusion of security, actively pushing the thought of their own mortality out of their minds to avoid any fear of the future [רש״י, צאינה וראינה]. However, this endless pursuit of entertainment does not lead to peace. Instead, it simply conditions a person to sin [מצודת דוד]. Furthermore, this empty pursuit of pleasure breeds arrogance. Because their lives are built on an illusion, whenever reality fails to align with their desires, they are unable to cope and find themselves trapped in a state of constant anger [תעלומות חכמה].