Sirach 51:19-21

New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition

¹⁹My soul grappled with wisdom,^[a]
and in my conduct I was strict.^[b]

I spread out my hands to the heavens
and lamented my ignorance of her.
²⁰I 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)
²¹My heart was stirred to seek her;
therefore I have gained a prize possession.