1Listen, my sons, to a father's instruction. Pay attention and gain understanding.
2For I am giving you good teaching; don't abandon my law.
3When I was a son to my father, I was tender and my mother's only child.
4My father taught me and said to me: "Hold my words in your heart. Obey my commands and you will live.
5Get wisdom. Get understanding. Don't forget my words or turn away from them.
6Don't abandon wisdom, and she will protect you. Love her, and she will guard you.
7Wisdom is most important. Get wisdom. Even if it costs you everything you own, get understanding.
8Value her highly, and she will raise you up. She will bring you honor when you embrace her."
9She will give you a beautiful garland for your head; she will present you with a crown of splendor.
10Listen, my son, and accept my words. Then you will live many years.
11I have taught you the way of wisdom and led you along straight paths.
12As you walk, your steps will not be hindered; when you run, you will not stumble.
13Hold firmly to instruction, do not let it go; guard it well, for it is your life.
14Do not enter the path of the wicked or walk in the way of evil men.
15Avoid it, do not travel on it; turn from it and go on your way.
16For they cannot sleep unless they have done evil; they are robbed of sleep until they make someone fall.
17They eat the bread of wickedness and drink the wine of violence.
18But the path of the righteous is like the morning sun, shining brighter and brighter until the full day.
19The way of the wicked is like deep darkness; they do not know what makes them stumble.
20My son, pay attention to my words; listen closely to my sayings.
21Do not let them out of your sight; keep them deep within your heart.
22For they are life to those who find them and health to one's whole body.
23Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.
24Get rid of a dishonest mouth; keep corrupt talk far from your lips.
25Look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you.
26Make the path for your feet level and firm; then all your ways will be sure.
27Do not turn to the right or the left; keep your foot away from evil.