[1] Hear, ye children, the instruction of a father, and attend to know understanding. [2] For I give you good doctrine, forsake ye not my law. [3] For I was my father's son, tender and only beloved in the sight of my mother. [4] He taught me also, and said unto me, Let thine heart retain my words: keep my commandments, and live. [5] Get wisdom, get understanding: forget it not; neither decline from the words of my mouth. [6] Forsake her not, and she shall preserve thee: love her, and she shall keep [7] Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding. [8] Exalt her, and she shall promote thee: she shall bring thee to honour, when thou dost embrace [9] She shall give to thine head an ornament of grace: a crown of glory shall she deliver [10] Hear, O my son, and receive my sayings; and the years of thy life shall be many. [11] I have taught thee in the way of wisdom; I have led thee in right paths. [12] thy steps shall not be straitened; and when thou runnest, thou shalt not stumble. [13] Take fast hold of instruction; let her not go: keep her; for she is thy life.