⁴ for giving prudence to the naïve,
    and knowledge and discretion to the young.

²¹ My son, do not let wisdom^[a] leave your sight.
    Carefully observe sound judgment and discernment,
²² and they will be life to you
    and a graceful ornament^[b] for your neck.
²³ Then you will travel safely on your way,
    and your foot will not stumble.
²⁴ When you sit^[c] down, you will not be afraid;
    when you lie down, your sleep will be pleasant.^[d]
25 Do not be afraid of sudden disaster,^[e]
    or the devastation that comes to the wicked.
²⁶ Indeed, the Lord will be your confidence,
    and he will keep your foot from being caught.

4 Listen, children,^[a] to your father’s instruction,
and pay attention in order to gain understanding.
² I give you sound teaching,
so do not abandon my instruction.^[b]
3 When I was a son to my father,
    not yet strong^[c] and an only son to my mother,
⁴ he taught me and told me,
    “Let your heart fully embrace what I have to say;^[d]
        keep my commandments and live!
⁵ Get wisdom! Get understanding!
    Do not forget or turn aside from the words of my mouth!
⁶ Do not abandon her, and she will protect you.
    Love her, and she will watch over you.
⁷ Wisdom is of utmost importance, therefore get wisdom,
    and with all your effort work to acquire understanding.

5 My son, pay attention to my wisdom,
and listen closely to my insight,
² so you may carefully practice^[a] discretion
    and your lips preserve knowledge.