1. My children, listen to your father’s teaching;pay attention so you will understand.
2. What I am telling you is good,so do not forget what I teach you.
3. When I was a young boy in my father’s houseand like an only child to my mother,
4. my father taught me and said,“Hold on to my words with all your heart.Keep my commands and you will live.
5. Get wisdom and understanding.Don’t forget or ignore my words.
6. Hold on to wisdom, and it will take care of you.Love it, and it will keep you safe.
7. Wisdom is the most important thing; so get wisdom.If it costs everything you have, get understanding.
8. Treasure wisdom, and it will make you great;hold on to it, and it will bring you honor.
9. It will be like flowers in your hairand like a beautiful crown on your head.”
10. My child, listen and accept what I say.Then you will have a long life.
11. I am guiding you in the way of wisdom,and I am leading you on the right path.
12. Nothing will hold you back;you will not be overwhelmed.
13. Always remember what you have been taught,and don’t let go of it.Keep all that you have learned;it is the most important thing in life.
14. Don’t follow the ways of the wicked;don’t do what evil people do.
15. Avoid their ways, and don’t follow them.Stay away from them and keep on going,
16. because they cannot sleep until they do evil.They cannot rest until they harm someone.