³ My mouth will speak words of wisdom;^(A)
    the meditation of my heart will give you understanding.^(B)

²⁰ Have I not written thirty sayings for you,
    sayings of counsel and knowledge,
²¹ teaching you to be honest and to speak the truth,^(A)
    so that you bring back truthful reports
    to those you serve?

¹⁷ Pay attention^(A) and turn your ear to the sayings of the wise;^(B)
    apply your heart to what I teach,^(C)

4 Listen, my sons,^(A) to a father’s instruction;^(B)
    pay attention and gain understanding.^(C)
2 I give you sound learning,
    so do not forsake my teaching.

¹³⁰ The unfolding of your words gives light;^(A)
    it gives understanding to the simple.^(B)

¹ My heart is stirred by a noble theme
    as I recite my verses for the king;
    my tongue is the pen of a skillful writer.