The Paradox of Purity: Interpretation and Theological Implications of the Words καθαρός [katharos] and καθαρότης [katharotēs] in Wis 7:22–28

The double use of the word with the καθαρ root in the text of Wis 7:22–28 may set the interpretative direction for the discussion of the whole pericope. The exegesis of the pericope in the key of purity shows the following possibility of understanding the text: the moral aspect of purity of Wisdom can be imparted by it to pure people. A contradiction (paradox) in the text which concerns the subject of purity is observed: purity is, on the one hand, a condition, on the other, an effect of Wisdom’s imparting action. A look at the further context of pericope Wis 7:22–28 (in particular Wis 9 and Wis 10) can lead to a probable solution to this potential contradiction: it lies in the idea of being elected by God, which anticipates human action.