Proverbs 8:1-11

Amplified Bible, Classic Edition

8 Does not skillful and godly Wisdom cry out, and understanding raise her voice [in contrast to the loose woman]?

² On the top of the heights beside the way, where the paths meet, stands Wisdom [skillful and godly];

³ At the gates at the entrance of the town, at the coming in at the doors, she cries out:

⁴ To you, O men, I call, and my voice is directed to the sons of men.

⁵ O you simple and thoughtless ones, understand prudence; you [self-confident] fools, be of an understanding heart.^(A)

⁶ Hear, for I will speak excellent and princely things; and the opening of my lips shall be for right things.

⁷ For my mouth shall utter truth, and wrongdoing is detestable and loathsome to my lips.

⁸ All the words of my mouth are righteous (upright and in right standing with God); there is nothing contrary to truth or crooked in them.

⁹ They are all plain to him who understands [and opens his heart], and right to those who find knowledge [and live by it].

¹⁰ Receive my instruction in preference to [striving for] silver, and knowledge rather than choice gold,

¹¹ For skillful and godly Wisdom is better than rubies or pearls, and all the things that may be desired are not to be compared to it.^(B)