1 My child, listen closelyto my teachingsand learn common sense.
2 My advice is useful,so don't turn away.
3 When I was still very youngand my mother's favorite child,my father
4 said to me:“If you follow my teachingsand keep them in mind,you will live.
5 Be wise and learn good sense;remember my teachingsand do what I say.
6 If you love Wisdomand don't reject her,she will watch over you.
7 The best thing about Wisdomis Wisdom herself;good sense is more importantthan anything else.
8 If you value Wisdomand hold tightly to her,great honors will be yours.
9 It will be like wearinga glorious crownof beautiful flowers.”
10 My child, if you listenand obey my teachings,you will live a long time.
11 I have shown you the waythat makes sense;I have guided youalong the right path.
12 Your road won't be blocked,and you won't stumblewhen you run.
13 Hold firmly to my teachingand never let go.It will mean life for you.
14 Don't follow the bad exampleof cruel and evil people.
15 Turn aside and keep going.Stay away from them.
16 They can't sleep or restuntil they do wrong or harmsome innocent victim.
17 Their food and drinkare cruelty and wickedness.
18 The lifestyle of good peopleis like sunlight at dawnthat keeps getting brighteruntil broad daylight.
19 The lifestyle of the wickedis like total darkness,and they will never knowwhat makes them stumble.
20 My child, listen carefullyto everything I say.
21 Don't forget a single word,but think about it all.
22 Knowing these teachingswill mean true lifeand good health for you.
23 Carefully guard your thoughtsbecause they are the sourceof true life.
24 Never tell lies or be deceitfulin what you say.
25 Keep looking straight ahead,without turning aside.
26 Know where you are headed,and you will stayon solid ground.
27 Don't make a mistake by turningto the right or the left.