⁴ They give understanding to childish people.
    They give knowledge and good sense to those who are young.

4 My sons, listen to a father’s teaching.
    Pay attention and gain understanding.
² I give you good advice.
    So don’t turn away from what I teach you.
³ I, too, was once a young boy in my father’s house.
    And my mother loved me deeply.
⁴ Then my father taught me.
    He said to me, “Take hold of my words with all your heart.
    Keep my commands, and you will live.
⁵ Get wisdom, and get understanding.
    Don’t forget my words or turn away from them.
⁶ Stay close to wisdom, and she will keep you safe.
    Love her, and she will watch over you.
⁷ To start being wise you must first get wisdom.
    No matter what it costs, get understanding.

5 My son, pay attention to my wisdom.
    Listen carefully to my wise sayings.
² Then you will continue to have good sense.
    Your lips will keep on speaking words of knowledge.

9 Wisdom has built her house.
    She has set up its seven pillars.
² She has prepared her meat and mixed her wine.
    She has also set her table.
³ She has sent out her servants.
    She calls out from the highest point of the city.
⁴ She says, “Let all who are childish come to my house!”
    She speaks to those who have no sense. She says,
⁵ “Come and eat my food.
    Drink the wine I have mixed.
⁶ Leave your childish ways and you will live.
    Walk in the way of understanding.”