“For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.” Proverbs 2:6 (NIV)
When Israel rejoices, heaven rejoices with her. And this week, the world turned its eyes toward an Israeli-born scholar whose lifetime of study has illuminated how knowledge builds nations.
Joel Mokyr, born in Haifa in 1946, has been awarded the 2025 Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences for his pioneering work on how technological progress and human ingenuity sustain prosperity. A historian of ideas as much as an economist, Mokyr has spent decades tracing how the spirit of invention—curiosity married to courage—can lift societies from stagnation into flourishing.
Educated at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and later Yale, Professor Mokyr has taught for years at Northwestern University while remaining closely connected to Israel through Tel Aviv University. His research explores a simple but profound truth: when people are free to create, when knowledge is shared, and when moral purpose guides innovation, civilizations thrive.
At Northwestern, he spoke with characteristic humility, crediting mentors, colleagues, and students. Yet behind the academic language lies a story that resonates deeply with the people of Israel. Mokyr’s work is rooted in the belief that progress is not accidental—it flows from a culture that honors learning, faith, and perseverance. Out of a nation that has rebuilt itself from ashes, Israel continues to bless the world with discovery, science, and wisdom.
Israel’s story is itself an economic miracle. In barely seventy-seven years, the desert has bloomed, technology has flourished, and a small country has become a global leader in medicine, agriculture, cybersecurity, and innovation. Each breakthrough bears witness to God’s faithfulness and to the resilience of His people.
Dr. Mokyr’s Nobel recognition is more than a personal achievement; it is a reminder that the same spirit which inspired the prophets still moves among Israel’s sons and daughters—the conviction that truth and knowledge belong to God and are meant to serve humanity.
For Christian Women For Israel, this moment is also a call to prayer and gratitude. We celebrate not only an Israeli mind honored by the world, but the enduring truth that wisdom is a gift from the Lord.
As Proverbs 3:13 declares: “Blessed are those who find wisdom, those who gain understanding.”
May we continue to bless the nation that blesses the world.
Today’s Prayer
Lord, we thank You for gifting minds like Joel Mokyr’s, whose pursuit of knowledge brings light and progress to nations. Bless the land of Israel, and let every discovery born there be used for peace, healing, and hope. May wisdom guide our leaders, creativity inspire our children, and faith anchor our future.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
