The Blessings of Wisdom

Blessed [is] the man who finds wisdom,

the man who acquires understanding,

14 

for she is more profitable than silver,

and her gain [is better] than fine gold.

15 

She is more precious than rubies;

nothing you desire compares with her.

16 

Long life is in her right hand;

in her left hand [are] riches and honor.

17 

All her ways are pleasant,

and all her paths [are] peaceful.

18 

She is a tree of life to those who embrace her,

and those who lay hold of her are blessed.

19 

The LORD founded the earth by wisdom

and established the heavens by understanding.

20 

By His knowledge the watery depths were broken open,

and the clouds dripped with dew.

21 

My son, do not lose sight of this:

Preserve sound judgment and discernment.

22 

They will be life to your soul

and adornment to your neck.

23 

Then you will go on your way in safety,

and your foot will not stumble.

24 

When you lie down, you will not be afraid;

when you rest, your sleep will be sweet.

25 

Do not fear sudden danger

or the ruin that overtakes the wicked,

26 

for the LORD will be your confidence

and will keep your foot from the snare.

27 

Do not withhold good from the deserving[fn]

when it is within your power to act.

28 

Do not tell your neighbor,

“Come back tomorrow [and] I will provide”—

when you already have the means

29 

Do not devise evil against your neighbor,

for he trustfully dwells beside you.

30 

Do not accuse a man without cause,

when he has done you no harm.

31 

Do not envy a violent man

or choose any of his ways;

32 

for the LORD detests the perverse

but He is a friend to the upright.

33 

The curse of the LORD is on the house of the wicked,

but He blesses the home of the righteous.

34 

He mocks the mockers,

but gives grace to the humble.[fn]

35 

The wise will inherit honor,

but fools are held up to shame. 4