9. They are all plain to him who understands [and opens his heart], and right to those who find knowledge [and live by it].
10. Receive my instruction in preference to [striving for] silver, and knowledge rather than choice gold,
11. For skillful and godly Wisdom is better than rubies or pearls, and all the things that may be desired are not to be compared to it. [Job 28:15; Ps. 19:10; 119:127.]
12. I, Wisdom [from God], make prudence my dwelling, and I find out knowledge and discretion. [James 1:5.]
13. The reverent fear and worshipful awe of the Lord [includes] the hatred of evil; pride, arrogance, the evil way, and perverted and twisted speech I hate.
14. I have counsel and sound knowledge, I have understanding, I have might and power.
15. By me kings reign and rulers decree justice. [Dan. 2:21; Rom. 13:1.]
16. By me princes rule, and nobles, even all the judges and governors of the earth.
17. I love those who love me, and those who seek me early and diligently shall find me. [I Sam. 2:30; Ps. 91:14; John 14:21; James 1:5.]
18. Riches and honor are with me, enduring wealth and righteousness (uprightness in every area and relation, and right standing with God). [Prov. 3:16; Matt. 6:33.]
19. My fruit is better than gold, yes, than refined gold, and my increase than choice silver.
20. I [Wisdom] walk in the way of righteousness (moral and spiritual rectitude in every area and relation), in the midst of the paths of justice,