Proverbs Chapter 4

1: Hear, O children, a father's instruction, be attentive, that you may gain understanding!

2: Yes, excellent advice I give you, my teaching do not forsake.

3: When I was my father's child, frail, yet the darling of my mother,

4: He taught me, and said to me: "Let your heart hold fast my words: keep my commands, that you may live!

5: "Get wisdom, get understanding! Do not forget or turn aside from the words I utter.

6:Forsake her not, and she will perserve you, love her, and she will safeguard you;

7: The beginning of wisdom is: get wisdom; at the cost of all you have, get understanding.

8: Extol her, and she will exalt you; she will bring you honors if you embrace her,

9: She will put on your head a graceful diadem; a glorious crown will she bestow on you."

10: Hear, my son, and receive my words, and the years of your life shall be many.

11: On the way of wisdom I direct you, I lead you on straightforward paths.