משלי, פרק כ״ד, פסוק ה׳

True strength is never measured merely by physical ability. Instead, it relies primarily on a person's character, intellect, and spiritual resilience. Wisdom and knowledge serve as the authentic sources of power, granting individuals the ability to conquer their internal struggles. A wise person constantly lives within a state of power and strength [רש״י, ביאור שטיינזלץ], standing firmly in the fear of God [מצודת דוד]. This inner might is expressed through the mind's ability to suppress material desires and defeat negative urges [רלב״ג, אלשיך]. While some might mistakenly believe that physical power alone is sufficient or that it inherently makes a person wise, physical strength only reaches its true perfection and usefulness when it is partnered with wisdom [עמנואל הרומי].

Beyond basic wisdom, there is a higher level achieved by the person of knowledge. This level involves an active, ongoing process of strengthening [מצודת ציון] and outward influence [אבן עזרא]. A wise person uses the rules of wisdom to fight personal desires, but this battle is subject to change, and occasionally, negative urges might still win. In contrast, the person of knowledge has so deeply internalized wisdom that it becomes absolutely clear to him. As a result, he continuously reinforces his power and is never defeated by the internal enemies of his soul [מלבי״ם].

Furthermore, the person of knowledge does not rely solely on his intellect or past successes. Recognizing human weakness, he employs strategic tactics, setting personal boundaries and limits to ensure he never surrenders to his urges [אלשיך]. Because of this, the person of knowledge is considered superior to the wise person. He constantly increases his inner might and even radiates it outward by teaching others [מצודת דוד]. Ultimately, victory in the battles of life depends entirely on the strategies born of wisdom and knowledge, which provide true courage and inner strength, rather than on physical force [עמנואל הרומי].