17. He that fears the Lord directs his friendship aright; For as he is, so is his neighbor also.
18. My son, gather instruction from your youth up: And even to hoar hairs you shall find wisdom.
19. Come to her as one that plows and sows, And wait for her good fruits; For your toil shall be little in the tillage of her, And you shall eat of her fruits right soon.
20. How exceeding harsh is she to the unlearned! And he that is without understanding will not abide in her.
21. As a mighty stone of trial shall she rest upon him; And he will not delay to cast her from him.
22. For wisdom is according to her name; and she is not manifest to many.
23. Give ear, my son, and accept my judgement, And refuse not my counsel,
24. And bring your feet into her fetters, And your neck into her chain.
25. Put your shoulder under her, and bear her, And be not grieved with her bonds.