Flavor #11: Discernment (Biyn; Tebunah)

(Complete list and links to the 31 Flavors of Wisdom)

Meaning, Essence and Significance: Discernment is the ability to perceive and distinguish between different elements, leading to informed decisions. The Hebrew term Biyn conveys the act of mentally separating or distinguishing, enabling you to understand and consider matters deeply. Tebunah refers to intelligence or insight derived from understanding, emphasizing the capacity for thoughtful analysis, and making wise choices that flows from your inner being that wants and works to deliver wise outcomes. Together, they highlight discernment as a vital skill for navigating life’s complexities with moral and spiritual clarity. ​

Practical Appearance and Nutritional Value: Discernment manifests as a thoughtful pause before action, reflecting a commitment to understanding over impulsivity. It involves asking probing questions like, “Is this the whole story?” or “What’s the missing ingredient here?” or “What’s the wisest next step?” This practice involves listening to your intuition, gathering information, engaging in critical thinking, and considers the long-term outcomes in your decision making. By honing discernment, you cultivate the ability to respond thoughtfully, speak constructively, and navigate relationships and decisions with wisdom.​

Who deserves some of this seasoning?  “My children would greatly benefit from a generous sprinkling of discernment. This entails listening beyond their spoken words but also recognizing the underlying emotions that are impacting them in that moment. It involves refraining from assumptions and instead asking, ‘Help me understand what you’re feeling.’ Such discernment allows me to identify and address unspoken needs, be it rest, reassurance, space, support or patience, thereby strengthening our bond and demonstrating a deep level of care and understanding.”

So thanks again for looking at these 31 Flavors of Wisdom and hopefully, participating in the 31 Day Wisdom Challenge, and for reading this excerpt from Cultivating Love: Wisdom for Life. As time permits, please visit the other blogs written by Dr. Ken McGill: Daily Bread for Life and “3–2- 5–4–24” for additional information that could be helpful.