What does Proverbs 21:22 mean?

The book of Proverbs often commends wisdom for the success it can bring (Proverbs 3:1–8; 16:20). Here, Solomon poetically depicts wisdom enabling a man to climb the walls of a fortified town and bring down its defenses. Wisdom provides strength and security which can overcome any physical advantage.

The apostle Paul preached the wisdom of God revealed in Christ crucified (1 Corinthians 2:1–5) to conquer the will of the mighty men of Athens. Declaring the gospel to the philosophers assembled on the Areopagus, Paul called for repentance. Acts 17:34 reports that "some men joined him and believed, among whom were Dionysius the Areopagite and a woman named Damaris and others with them." A humble believer armed with the wisdom of the gospel can break through the barriers in which unbelievers trust. He can bring down their confidence in their good works or their trust in their own intellect. Paul writes in Romans 1:16: "For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes."