wisdom of the ancients
Refers to the accumulated knowledge, insights, or lessons passed down from past generations. Often used in literary or reflective contexts.
Learning the wisdom of the ancients serves as a guide for the future.
This book is filled with the wisdom of our predecessors.
Standard kanji form for this word.
Alternate kanji form using 智 (wisdom) instead of 知 (knowledge).
Compound of 故 (old, past) and 知 (knowledge, wisdom). The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but the combination directly conveys 'old knowledge'.