7. “The beginning of wisdom is: Get wisdom! And with all your getting, get understanding.
8. “Exalt her, and let her uplift you; She brings you esteem when you embrace her.
9. “She gives your head a fair wreath, She shields you with an adorning crown.”
10. Hear, my son, and accept my words, And let the years of your life be many.
11. I have taught you in the way of wisdom, I have led you in straight paths.
12. When you walk your steps shall not be hindered, And if you run you shall not stumble.
13. Hold fast to discipline, do not let go; Watch over her, for she is your life.
14. Do not enter the path of the wrong, And do not walk in the way of evil-doers.
15. Avoid it, do not pass by it; Turn away from it and pass on.
16. For they do not sleep unless they have done evil. And their sleep is taken away unless they make someone fall.
17. For they have eaten the bread of wrongdoing, And they drink the wine of violence.
18. But the path of the righteous is like the light of dawn, That shines ever brighter unto the perfect day.
19. The way of the wrong is like darkness; They do not know at what they stumble.
20. My son, listen to my words; Incline your ear to my sayings.
21. Let them not depart from your eyes; Guard them in the midst of your heart;