1My son, never forget what I have taught you; but keep my commandments in your heart; 2For they shall prolong your life of peace and prosperity. 3Never let love, mercy and truth leave you; tie them around your neck; write them on the table of your heart; 4Then you shall win favor and approval with both God and man. 5Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding. 6In all that you do, acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths. 7Do not be wise in your own self-assessment; fear the LORD, and reject evil impulses. 8It shall bring health to your body, and nourishment to your bones. 9Honor the LORD with your wealth, and with the best of all you produce; 10Then your barns shall be filled with plenty, and your vats shall overflow with new wine. 11My son, do not despise the chastening or correction that comes from the LORD, nor grow weary of it: 12For the ones the LORD corrects are the ones He loves, just as a father corrects the son in whom he delights.

13Blessed is the one that finds wisdom, and gets understanding; 14For as merchandise, or a ‘commodity’, wisdom is more precious than silver, and her acquisition than fine gold, 15Or rubies; and anything you might desire and could compare to her. 16Longevity is in her right hand, and in her left hand are riches and honor. 17Her ways are pleasant; and all her paths are peace. 18She is a tree of life to those who embrace her; and those who hold on to her are blessed. 19The LORD by wisdom has founded the earth; by His understanding He has established the heavens. 20By His knowledge the watery depths were divided, and the clouds drop down the dew. 21My son, do not let wisdom and understanding out of your sight; hang onto discernment and discretion; 22They will be life for your soul, like precious jewels around your neck. 23Then shall you go your way in safety, and your foot shall not stumble. 24When you lie down, you will not be afraid; yes, and your sleep shall be sweet. 25Have no fear of sudden disaster, nor of the desolation that befalls the wicked; 26For the LORD is your security, and shall keep you from being caught.

27Do not withhold good from them to whom it is due, when you have the means to help them. 28Do not say to your neighbor, “Go, and come back later, and I will give you what you need”, when you already have it with you. 29Do not plot harm to your neighbor, who lives securely near you. 30Do not create strife with anyone without cause, when no one has done you harm. 31Do not envy a violent person, or emulate his lifestyle. 32For the LORD detests such people; but He confides in the righteous. 33The curse of the LORD is on the house of the wicked; but He blesses the home of the just. 34Surely, He scoffs at the scoffers; but He gives grace to the humble. 35The wise shall inherit honor, but shame shall be the reward of fools.