Sirach 51:18-20

New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition

¹⁸ For I resolved to practice wisdom,^[a]
    and I was zealous for the good,
    and I shall never be disappointed.
¹⁹ My soul grappled with wisdom,^[b]
    and in my conduct I was strict.^[c]

I spread out my hands to the heavens
    and lamented my ignorance of her.
²⁰ I directed my soul to her,
    and in purity I found her.

With her I gained understanding from the first;
    therefore I will never be forsaken.^(A)