Flavor #9: Learning (Leqach; Ozen; Shamar)

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

Meaning, Essence and Significance: Learning transcends information acquisition, and points toward your engagement in an active, transformative process. The Hebrew term Leqach refers to instruction or teaching, emphasizing the importance of internalizing wisdom. Ozen, meaning “ear,” signifies attentive listening (#4), highlighting that true learning begins with an open and receptive heart. Shamar means to guard or keep, indicating the responsibility to apply and protect the knowledge (#3) you’ve gained. Together, these terms illustrate that learning involves receiving instruction, listening intently, letting it sink into your heart, and diligently applying and safeguarding the wise insights you accumulate each day. 

Practical Appearance and Nutritional Value: Learning resembles a tree with deep roots, drawing nourishment from rich soil (think about it, trees never cease to take in the sustenance they need to live and be fruitful!).  Learning manifests as a teachable spirit: open to new insights, reflective, and willing to adapt. This flavor is evident in practices like engaging in thoughtful conversations, thorough discussions to ensure you understand (#20) matters before you, and applying lessons learned consistently to develop skilled behavior. Its nutritional value is profound: growing wisdom, discernment, and principled living! Embracing what you learn leads to personal growth, resilience in adversity, and a deeper connection with others and your Higher Power.​

Who deserves some of this seasoning?  “My younger sibling, navigating the complexities of early adulthood, would benefit from this flavor. Embedded in this flavor means being a supportive listener, sharing experiences without imposing, and encouraging his own journey of discovery. It means modeling humility (#22) by acknowledging my own learning process, demonstrating that growth is continuous. This approach fosters an environment where he feels valued and understood, hopefully inspiring him to embrace learning as a lifelong endeavor.”

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.

Dr. Ken McGill, LMFT — Attachment Repair for Couples • Faith-Integrated Trauma Therapy in California • Healthy Adult Mode Therapy for High-Functioning Professionals. Dr. McGill provides attachment-focused therapy integrating psychology and spiritual formation for couples and individuals seeking structured growth, with telehealth available statewide in California and Texas and in-person sessions in Plano, TX. Learn more or schedule a session at drkenmcgill@live.com, www.drkenmcgill.com, or 972. 505. 6144.