Sirach 51:13-21

Good News Translation

The Search for Wisdom

¹³ When I was still young, before I started out on my travels, I boldly prayed for Wisdom. ¹⁴ I went to the Temple and asked for her, and I will look for her as long as I live. ¹⁵ From my blossoming youth to my ripe old age she has been my delight. I have followed directly in her path ever since I was young. ¹⁶ I received Wisdom as soon as I began listening for her, and I have been rewarded with great knowledge. ¹⁷ I have always been a learner and am grateful to everyone who has been my teacher. ¹⁸ I was determined to live wisely and was devoted to the cause of goodness. I have no regrets. ¹⁹ I fought for Wisdom and was strict in my conduct. When I prayed, I sadly confessed how far short of Wisdom I fell. ²⁰ But I was determined to have her, and I found her by keeping myself free from sin. I have grown in Wisdom since first I found her, and I will never be without her. ²¹ Because I was driven by the desire to find her, I have been richly rewarded.