1Wisdom has built her house; she has set up her seven pillars (seven: the Biblical number of completion and perfection); 2She has prepared her great banquet and has mixed her wine; she has set her table. 3She has sent out her servants to invite everyone; she calls from the highest place of the city, 4“Whoever is simple, let him turn in here”; and to those who lack understanding, she says, 5“Come, eat of my food, and drink the wine which I have mixed. 6Leave your foolish ways, and live, and take the path of understanding.” 7Whoever reproves (corrects) a scoffer invites insults; and anyone who corrects a wicked man will get himself hurt. 8Do not bother correcting a scoffer, for he will hate you; but correct a wise man, and he will honor you. 9Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be even wiser; teach a just man, and he will increase in learning. 10The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. 11“For by Me (wisdom) your days shall be multiplied, and the years of your life shall be increased.” 12If you are wise, your wisdom shall reward you; but if you scorn wisdom, you alone shall suffer for it. 13A foolish woman is clamorous; she is simple, and knows nothing. 14For she sits at the door of her house, on a seat in a prominent place of the city, 15Calling those who pass on their way. 16“Let whoever is simple turn in here”; and to him who lacks understanding, she says, 17“Stolen waters are sweet, and food eaten in secret is delicious.” 18But little does he know that the dead are there; and that her guests are in the depths of hell.