1
Hear, ye children, the instruction of a father, and attend to know understanding.
2
For I give you good doctrine, forsake ye not my law.
3
For I was my father's son, tender and only beloved in the sight of my mother.
4
He taught me also, and said unto me, Let thine heart retain my words: keep my commandments, and live.
5
Get wisdom, get understanding: forget it not; neither decline from the words of my mouth.
6
Forsake her not, and she shall preserve thee: love her, and she shall keep thee.
7
Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.
8
Exalt her, and she shall promote thee: she shall bring thee to honour, when thou dost embrace her.
9
She shall give to thine head an ornament of grace: a crown of glory shall she deliver to thee.
10
Hear, O my son, and receive my sayings; and the years of thy life shall be many.
11
I have taught thee in the way of wisdom; I have led thee in right paths.
12
When thou goest, thy steps shall not be straitened; and when thou runnest, thou shalt not stumble.
13
Take fast hold of instruction; let her not go: keep her; for she is thy life.
14
Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil men.
