7. The beginning of wisdom is to acquire wisdom.Acquire understanding with all that you have.
8. Cherish wisdom.It will raise you up.It will bring you honor when you embrace it.
9. It will give you a graceful garland for your head.It will hand you a beautiful crown.”
10. My son,listen and accept my words,and they will multiply the years of your life.
11. I have taught you the way of wisdom.I have guided you along decent paths.
12. When you walk, your stride will not be hampered.Even if you run, you will not stumble.
13. Cling to discipline.Do not relax your grip on it.Keep it because it is your life.
14. Do not stray onto the path of wicked people.Do not walk in the way of evil people.
15. Avoid it.Do not walk near it.Turn away from it,and keep on walking.
16. Wicked people cannot sleepunless they do wrong,and they are robbed of their sleepunless they make someone stumble.
17. They eat food obtained through wrongdoingand drink wine obtained through violence.
18. But the path of righteous people is like the light of dawnthat becomes brighter and brighter until it reaches midday.
19. The way of wicked people is like deep darkness.They do not know what makes them stumble.
20. My son,pay attention to my words.Open your ears to what I say.