My children, listen to me. Listen to your father's instruction
Pay attention and grow wise, for I am giving you good guidance
Don't turn away from my teaching
For I, too, was once my father's son, tenderly loved by my mother as an only child
My father told me, "Take my words to heart. Follow my instructions and you will live
Learn to be wise, and develop good judgment. Don't forget or turn away from my words
Don't turn your back on wisdom, for she will protect you
Love her, and she will guard you
Getting wisdom is the most important thing you can do!
And whatever else you do, get good judgment
If you prize wisdom, she will exalt you. Embrace her and she will honor you
She will place a lovely wreath on your head; she will present you with a beautiful crown"
My child, listen to me and do as I say, and you will have a long, good life
I will teach you wisdom's ways and lead you in straight paths
If you live a life guided by wisdom, you won't limp or stumble as you run
Carry out my instructions; don't forsake them
Guard them, for they will lead you to a fulfilled life
Do not do as the wicked do or follow the path of evildoers
Avoid their haunts. Turn away and go somewhere else
For evil people cannot sleep until they have done their evil deed for the day
They cannot rest unless they have caused someone to stumble
They eat wickedness and drink violence
The way of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn
Which shines ever brighter until the full light of day
But the way of the wicked is like complete darkness
Those who follow it have no idea what they are stumbling over
Pay attention, my child, to what I say. Listen carefully
Don't lose sight of my words. Let them penetrate deep within your heart
For they bring life and radiant health to anyone who discovers their meaning
Above all else, guard your heart, for it affects everything you do
Avoid all perverse talk; stay far from corrupt speech
Look straight ahead, and fix your eyes on what lies before you
Mark out a straight path for your feet; then stick to the path and stay safe
Don't get sidetracked; keep your feet from following evil