“The Lord created and possessed me at the beginning of His way, Before His works of old [were accomplished].

Poor is he who works with a negligent and idle hand, But the hand of the diligent makes him rich.

The soul (appetite) of the lazy person craves and gets nothing [for lethargy overcomes ambition], But the soul (appetite) of the diligent [who works willingly] is rich and abundantly supplied.

Commit your works to the Lord [submit and trust them to Him], And your plans will succeed [if you respond to His will and guidance].

The appetite of a worker works for him, For his hunger urges him on.

If you [claim ignorance and] say, “See, we did not know this,” Does He not consider it who weighs and examines the hearts and their motives? And does He not know it who guards your life and keeps your soul? And will He not repay [you and] every man according to his works?

A lying tongue hates those it wounds and crushes, And a flattering mouth works ruin.

She looks for wool and flax And works with willing hands in delight.

Give her of the product of her hands, And let her own works praise her in the gates [of the city].