What does Chapter 12 teach about the value of simple faith versus the pride of scholarly knowledge?

Chapter 12 strongly contrasts the power of faith with the pitfalls of intellectual pride. It states that those of dull intellect who consider themselves learned often 'swell uselessly with dry pride' and may even disparage the path of devotion, and the chapter advises against keeping their company. In contrast, it teaches that even an ignorant person can cross the 'crisis of the fear of worldly existence' simply by the power of faith placed at the feet of a saint. The text emphasizes that firm faith will manifest and that the 'stiffness of dry knowledge is fruitless.' For the proud scholar, devotion can only arise if they manage to avoid doubt and make an effort.