Final answer:
International origins of wisdom literature include ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, India, China, and Israel. These civilizations produced works like the Instructions of Ptahhotep, Upanishads, Analects, and the Book of Proverbs, which reflect a universal quest for knowledge and morality.
Step-by-step explanation:
The international origins of wisdom literature can be traced back to several ancient civilizations around the world. Some of the most notable ones include ancient societies such as Egypt, Mesopotamia, India, China, and Israel. For example, the wisdom literature of Egypt is often encapsulated in the Instructions of Ptahhotep, a series of moral and philosophical teachings. The Sumerians and later the Akkadians in Mesopotamia contributed with texts like the Instructions of Shuruppak and the famous Epic of Gilgamesh, which also contains elements of wisdom literature.
India's contribution is seen in texts such as the Upanishads, a collection of philosophical musings that still influence thought today. China is known for the works of Confucius and Laozi, with classics like the Analects and Tao Te Ching. Lastly, Israel's contributions are found in the biblical Book of Proverbs and Ecclesiastes, which are part of the Jewish and Christian religious traditions.
These diverse origins reflect the universal human quest for knowledge, morality, and the meaning of life, contributing greatly to the cultural and philosophical heritage of the world.