39 Not so he who has applied his soul

and meditates in the law of the Most High.

He will seek out the wisdom of all the ancients

and will be occupied with prophecies.

2 He will keep the sayings of the men of renown

and will enter in amidst the subtleties of parables.

3 He will seek out the hidden meaning of proverbs

and be conversant in the dark sayings of parables.

4 He will serve amongst great men

and appear before him who rules.

He will travel through the land of foreign nations,

for he has learnt what is good and evil amongst men.

5 He will apply his heart to return early to the master who made him,

and will make supplication before the Most High,

and will open his mouth in prayer,

and will ask for pardon for his sins.

6 If the great master wills,

he will be filled with the spirit of understanding;

he will pour forth the words of his wisdom

and in prayer give thanks to the master.

7 He will direct his counsel and knowledge,

and he will meditate in his secrets.

8 He will show the instruction which he has been taught

and will glory in the law of the covenant of the master.

9 Many will commend his understanding.

So long as the world endures, it won’t be blotted out.

His memory won’t depart.

His name will live throughout the generations.

10 Nations will declare his wisdom.

The congregation will proclaim his praise.

11 If he continues, he will leave a greater name than a thousand.

If he finally rests, it is enough for him.