1. Listen, sons, to a father’s instruction. Pay attention and know understanding;
2. for I give you sound learning. Don’t forsake my law.
3. For I was a son to my father, tender and an only child in the sight of my mother.
4. He taught me, and said to me: “Let your heart retain my words. Keep my commandments, and live.
5. Get wisdom. Get understanding. Don’t forget, neither swerve from the words of my mouth.
6. Don’t forsake her, and she will preserve you. Love her, and she will keep you.
7. Wisdom is supreme. Get wisdom. Yes, though it costs all your possessions, get understanding.
8. Esteem her, and she will exalt you. She will bring you to honor, when you embrace her.
9. She will give to your head a garland of grace. She will deliver a crown of splendor to you.”
10. Listen, my son, and receive my sayings. The years of your life will be many.
11. I have taught you in the way of wisdom. I have led you in straight paths.
12. When you go, your steps will not be hampered. When you run, you will not stumble.
13. Take firm hold of instruction. Don’t let her go. Keep her, for she is your life.