6. I was once brought face to face with death;
7. enemies surrounded me everywhere.I looked for someone to help me,but there was no one there.
8. But then, O Lord, I remembered how merciful you areand what you had done in times past.I remembered that you rescue those who rely on you,that you save them from their enemies.
9. Then from here on earth I prayed to youto rescue me from death.
10. I prayed, “O Lord, you are my father;do not abandon me to my troubleswhen I am helpless against arrogant enemies.
11. I will always praise youand sing hymns of thanksgiving.”You answered my prayer,
12. and saved me from the threat of destruction.And so I thank you and praise you.O Lord, I praise you!
13. When I was still young, before I started out on my travels, I boldly prayed for Wisdom.
14. I went to the Temple and asked for her, and I will look for her as long as I live.
15. From my blossoming youth to my ripe old age she has been my delight. I have followed directly in her path ever since I was young.
16. I received Wisdom as soon as I began listening for her, and I have been rewarded with great knowledge.
17. I have always been a learner and am grateful to everyone who has been my teacher.
18. I was determined to live wisely and was devoted to the cause of goodness. I have no regrets.
19. I fought for Wisdom and was strict in my conduct. When I prayed, I sadly confessed how far short of Wisdom I fell.
20. But I was determined to have her, and I found her by keeping myself free from sin. I have grown in Wisdom since first I found her, and I will never be without her.
21. Because I was driven by the desire to find her, I have been richly rewarded.
22. The Lord gave me a gift for words, and I have used it in his praise.
23. Come to me, all you that need instruction, and learn in my school.
24. Why do you admit that you are ignorant and do nothing about it?
25. This is what I say: It costs nothing to be wise.