⁴ to give shrewdness^[a] to the simple,
    knowledge and purpose^[b] to the young,
⁵ may the wise hear and increase learning,
    and the one who understands gain direction,^[c]
6 to understand a proverb and an expression,
    words of wisdom and their riddles.
⁷ Fear of Yahweh is the beginning of knowledge;
    wisdom and instruction, fools despise.

³ For if you cry out for understanding,^[a]
    if you lift^[b] your voice for insight,
⁴ if you seek her like silver
    and search her out like treasure,^[c]
5 then you will understand the fear of Yahweh,
    and the knowledge of God you will find.
⁶ For Yahweh will give wisdom;
    from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.

¹⁰ for wisdom will enter your heart,
    and knowledge will be pleasing to your soul.^[a]
11 Discretion will watch over you;
    understanding will protect you,
¹² in order to deliver you from the way of evil,^[b]
    from a man who speaks devious things—