Son, be attentive and be smart,
incline your ear to what I say;
keep my words within your heart,
never let e’en one escape.
If you forsake not my teaching,
take no break from what I’m preaching,
the rewards will be far-reaching,
so pay heed to what I’m speaking:
I pray you mark this rule of thumb:
the wisest thing that you can do
is to come into wisdom;
make insight your true pursuit.
Although its costs may be demanding,
work to attain understanding.
Cherish wisdom and she’ll make you great;
she’ll honor you for your embrace.
For the head of the man sharpened
will don wisdom’s graceful garland.
I tell thee, son, that for one’s reverence,
she’ll bestow a crown
around your organ of benevolence,
and show you renown!
Uprightness invites us to her path,
away from the dismay of wrath.
Consider where your feet are going,
then your ways, they will be sure.
Turn from where evil is sowing;
keep the path before you pure.
Follow not the wind that’s blowing,
to the right or left don’t swerve.
When you hold on to instruction,
and do not let go,
wisdom guards you from destruction,
saves you from the foe!
Son, be attentive to sound sense,
make understanding your defense.
Let there be no earthly question
that you, my son, cling to discretion.
Lest your lust for true life lessen,
let your lips not lose a lesson.
Keep my commandments and you’ll live;
glean wisdom, insight, and forgive.
Never forget these words I’ve said;
don’t turn away, don’t be misled.
I taught you of acuity,
its assurance of annuity –
now you’ve the opportunity
to flee from promiscuity.
My son, do not forget my teaching,
but let your heart continue keeping
my commands — yea, be all ears,
for to your life they will add years.
Peace will be paid out as arrears
to he who listens and who hears!
