According to Louw-Nida, "wisdom" in the NT can refer to "the capacity to understand" or it can refer to "the content of what is known by those regarded as wise":
32.32 σοφίαa, ας f: the capacity to understand and, as a result, to act wisely—‘to be prudent, wisdom.’ ἐν σοφίᾳ περιπατεῖτε πρὸς τοὺς ἔξω ‘act with wisdom toward those who are not believers’ Col 4:5.
32.37 σοφίαb, ας f: the content of what is known by those regarded as wise—‘wisdom, insight, understanding.’ ἐπαιδεύθη Μωϋσῆς ἐν πάσῃ σοφίᾳ Αἰγυπτίων ‘Moses learned all the wisdom of the Egyptians’ Ac 7:22; σοφίαν δὲ λαλοῦμεν ἐν τοῖς τελείοις ‘yet, we have wisdom to tell those who are spiritually mature’ 1 Cor 2:6.
(Louw-Nida Greek-English lexicon of the New Testament, Vol. 1, p. 383-384)
In regard to the wisdom which is from above (James 3:17), which the Holy Spirit teaches (1 Cor 2:13), people without the Spirit of God in them do not have "the capacity to understand" (1 Cor 2:14). And everyone in whom the Spirit lives does have "the capacity to understand" because God gave us His Spirit so that we might be able to comprehend the things otherwise unknowable (1 Cor 2:12).
So, my interpretation of "wisdom" in James 1:5-8 is not about asking for the capacity to know wisdom (since we all aready have that capacity), it is about asking for a particular nugget of wisdom which we are lacking.
Note: This is an example of my approach to interpretation of Scripture. When I'm faced with a challenge I do not have a clear answer for, and if I take my concern to God to light the path He wants me to take, then I find a clear solution for the problem if I follow His guidance.
NewLifeInChrist, a good definition of "wisdom" in the Bible follows:
"In the Bible, wisdom is defined as the practical application of knowledge and understanding in alignment with God's will and truth. It is often described as the ability to discern and act rightly in specific situations, rooted in a reverent fear of the Lord. The Bible emphasizes that true wisdom comes from God and is sought through humility, obedience, and a relationship with Him.
"Wisdom is also personified in the Bible, particularly in the Book of Proverbs, where it is depicted as a woman offering guidance and insight to those who seek her. Additionally, the New Testament identifies Jesus Christ as the embodiment of divine wisdom, stating that 'Christ is the wisdom of God.'
"The Hebrew word for wisdom,
chokhmah, encompasses practical skill, discernment, and moral understanding, while the Greek word
sophia refers to deep spiritual insight and knowledge. The Bible teaches that wisdom is not merely intellectual knowledge but involves righteous action and the ability to apply God's truth in daily life.
"In summary, biblical wisdom is characterized by its origin in God, its practical application in life, and its connection to moral and spiritual discernment."
One might add James 3:13-18, where James describes the personal qualities that go along with true wisdom:
Jas 3:13 Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom.
Jas 3:14 But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth.
Jas 3:15 This is not the wisdom that comes down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic.
Jas 3:16 For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice.
Jas 3:17 But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere.
Jas 3:18 And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.
