Sirach 51:13-30

New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition

¹⁵ From the first blossom to the ripening grape
    my heart delighted in her;
my foot walked on the straight path;
    from my youth I followed her steps.

¹⁶ I inclined my ear a little and received her,
    and I found for myself much instruction.
¹⁷ I made progress in her;
    to him who gives wisdom I will give glory.

¹⁸ For I resolved to live according to 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.
²¹ My heart was stirred to seek her;
    therefore I have gained a prize possession.
²² The Lord gave me my tongue as a reward,
    and I will praise him with it.

²³ Draw near to me, you who are uneducated,
    and lodge in the house of instruction.
²⁴ Why do you say you are lacking in these things,^[d]
    and why do you endure such great thirst?
²⁵ I opened my mouth and said,
    Acquire wisdom^[e] for yourselves without money.

²⁶ Put your neck under her^[f] yoke,
    and let your souls receive instruction;
    it is to be found close by.

²⁷ See with your own eyes that I have labored but little
    and found for myself much serenity.
²⁸ Hear but a little of my instruction,
    and through me you will acquire silver and gold.^[g]

²⁹ May your soul rejoice in God’s^[h] mercy,
    and may you never be ashamed to praise him.
³⁰ Do your work in good time,
    and in his own time God^[i] will give you your reward.