Through divine inspiration the wise are able to access hidden knowledge.

The wise are always superior to the prophets. For divine inspiration sometimes rests upon the prophets and sometimes it does not. But divine inspiration has not left the wise even for one moment. They know “what is above” and “what is below” [in the upper and lower levels of existence] but have never wanted to reveal it. (Zohar 2:6:2)

The Divine Presence shines on the faces of the righteous, and their natural countenance is one of awe, humility, and contrition.

The righteous are called “the face of the Divine Presence” (Jerusalem Talmud, Eiruvin 5:1). The light of the Divine Presence shines on their faces and they feel contrite [and are filled with] humility, awe, and serious-mindedness. This is what is meant by the verse: “So that His fear will be on your faces” (Exodus 20:17). The word “fear” alludes to the Divine Presence that is referred to as “fear,” and that illuminates their faces. (Rabbi Elazar Azkari, Sefer Ĥaredim, Mitzvot Hateluyot Ba’aretz, chap. 4)

Further reading: For more on the images of the wise man and the righteous man in talmudic and rabbinic anecdotes, see A Concise Guide to the Sages, p. 317.