16. By me princes govern. By me all nobles rule on earth.
17. I love those who love me. Those who look for me find me.
18. With me are riches and honor. With me are lasting wealth and success.
19. My fruit is better than fine gold. My gifts are better than the finest silver.
20. I walk in ways that are honest. I take paths that are right.
21. I leave riches to those who love me. I give them more than they have room for.
22. "The Lord created me as the first of his works, before his acts of long ago.
23. I was formed at the very beginning. I was formed before the world began.
24. Before there were any oceans, I was born. There weren't any springs of water at that time.
25. Before the mountains were settled in place, I was born. Before there were any hills, I was born.
26. It happened before the Lord made the earth and its fields. It was before he made the dust of the world.
27. I was there when he set the heavens in place. When he marked out the place where the sky meets the sea, I was there.
28. That was when he put the clouds above. It was when he fixed the ocean springs in place.
29. It was when he set limits for the sea so that the waters had to obey his command. When he marked out the foundations of the earth, I was there.
30. I was the skilled worker at his side. I was filled with delight day after day. I was always happy to be with him.
31. His whole world filled me with joy. I took delight in all human beings.
32. "My children, listen to me. Blessed are those who keep my ways.
33. Listen to my teaching and be wise. Don't turn away from it.