1 Children, listen to the instruction of a father, and be attentive in order to know insight.
2 For I have given you good instruction; do not forsake my teaching.
3 When I was a son to my father, tender and alone before my mother,
4 he taught me and said to me, “May your heart hold fast to my words; guard my commandments and live.
5 Get wisdom and insight; do not forget and do not turn from the sayings of my mouth.
6 Do not forsake her—then she will guard you; love her and she will keep you.
7 The beginning of wisdom: Get wisdom! With all that is in your possession, gain insight.