1. Hear, O sons, the instruction of a father, And give attention that you may gain understanding,
2. For I give you sound teaching; Do not abandon my instruction.
3. When I was a son to my father, Tender and the only son in the sight of my mother,
4. Then he taught me and said to me, "Let your heart hold fast my words; Keep my commandments and live;
5. Acquire wisdom! Acquire understanding! Do not forget nor turn away from the words of my mouth.
6. "Do not forsake her, and she will guard you; Love her, and she will watch over you.
7. "The beginning of wisdom is: Acquire wisdom; And with all your acquiring, get understanding.
8. "Prize her, and she will exalt you; She will honor you if you embrace her.
9. "She will place on your head a garland of grace; She will present you with a crown of beauty."
10. Hear, my son, and accept my sayings And the years of your life will be many.
11. I have directed you in the way of wisdom; I have led you in upright paths.