1Hear, my children, the instruction of a father, and pay attention, to gain understanding; 2For I give you good doctrine, so do not forsake my teaching. 3For I, too, was my father's son, tender and well beloved by my mother. 4My father taught me, as well, and said to me, “Take to heart and retain my words; adhere to my teaching, and live.” 5Get wisdom and understanding; do not forget or deviate from this advice. 6Do not forsake her (wisdom), and she shall protect you; love her, and she shall guard you. 7Godly wisdom is supreme; so seek and get it; and while getting it, get understanding. 8Cherish wisdom, and she shall exalt you; embrace her, and she shall bring you to honor. 9She shall adorn your head with a wreath of grace; a crown of glory shall she present to you. 10Hear, my son, and accept what I say, and the years of your life shall be many. 11I have taught you in the way of wisdom; I have led you in right paths. 12When you walk, your steps shall not be hindered; and when you run, you will not stumble. 13Grasp these instructions firmly; do not let them go. Guard them well, for they are the key to life. 14Do not take even the first step into the path of the wicked, and avoid the ways of evil men. 15Avoid it like the plague, stay far away from it, and follow your path. 16For evil men cannot rest without doing mischief; and sleep eludes them until they cause some harm. 17They eat and drink wickedness and violence. 18The path of the just is like the morning sun that shines ever brighter until the full light of day. 19But the way of the wicked is like deep darkness; they do not even see what they are stumbling over. 20My son, hear and reflect upon my words. 21Keep them in view, and within your heart. 22For they are life to those that find them, and health to their whole body. 23Above all else, guard your heart with all diligence; for out of it flow all the issues of life. 24Keep perverse and deceitful words far from your mouth, and lips. 25Keep your eyes on what lies before you. 26Give careful thought to the path you choose and follow. 27Turn neither to the left nor to the right; keep your feet from paths of evil.