Sirach 6:18-31

Good News Translation

Learn from Wisdom

¹⁸My child, learn to value Wisdom while you are young, and you will still be able to find her when you grow old. ¹⁹^(A)Work as hard to find Wisdom as a farmer works to plow and plant his fields; then you can expect a good harvest. You will have to work at it for a while, but you will soon be enjoying what you have earned. ²⁰Undisciplined people find Wisdom's demands too hard and don't have enough determination to meet them. ²¹Her requirements are a burden heavier than they are willing to bear, and they quickly lay them aside.

²²Discipline means just that—discipline,^[a] and not many people are able to discipline themselves.

²³My child, listen to me and take my advice. ²⁴Put Wisdom's chains around your feet and her yoke around your neck. ²⁵Carry her on your shoulder and don't be resentful of her bonds. ²⁶Follow Wisdom, and keep to her ways with all your heart. ²⁷Go looking for her, and she will reveal herself to you. Take hold of her and don't let go. ²⁸Then you will discover the peace of mind she offers, and she will become your joy. ^29-30The signs of slavery you wear will become signs of royal majesty. Her chains will be your protection, and you will wear her yoke like a magnificent robe. ³¹You will wear Wisdom like a splendid crown.