Old Testament

New Testament

Sirach 51:23-37 Catholic Public Domain Version (CPDV)

23. I will give glory to him who gives wisdom to me.

24. For I have decided that I should act according to wisdom. I have been zealous for what is good, and so I will not be confounded.

25. My soul has struggled for wisdom, and in doing so, I have been confirmed.

26. I extended my hands on high, and I mourned my ignorance of her.

27. I directed my soul toward her, and I found her within knowledge.

28. From the beginning, I held my heart to wisdom. Because of this, I will not be forsaken.

29. My stomach was stirred up while seeking her. Because of her, I will hold a good possession.

30. The Lord has given me a tongue as my reward, and I will praise him with it.

31. Draw near to me, you who are untaught, and gather yourselves into the house of discipline.

32. Why are you reluctant? And what do you have to say about these things? Your souls are exceedingly thirsty!

33. I have opened my mouth, and I have spoken. Buy wisdom for yourselves without silver,

34. and subject your neck to her yoke, and let your soul accept her discipline. For she is close enough to be found.

35. See with your own eyes how I have labored only a little, and have found much rest for myself.

36. Take up discipline, as if it were a great sum of money, and possess an abundance of gold in her.

37. Let your soul rejoice in his mercy. For you will not be confounded by his praise.

Read complete chapter Sirach 51