[1] Young men, listen to me as you would to your father. Listen, and grow wise, for I speak the truth-don't turn away. [3] For I, too, was once a son, tenderly loved by my mother as an only child, and the companion of my father. [4] He told me never to forget his words. "If you follow them," he said, "you will have a long and happy life. [5] Learn to be wise," he said, "and develop good judgment and common sense! I cannot overemphasize this point." [6] Cling to wisdom-she will protect you. Love her-she will guard you. [7] Getting wisdom is the most important thing you can do! And with your wisdom, develop common sense and good judgment. [8] If you exalt wisdom, she will exalt you. Hold her fast, and she will lead you to great honor; she will place a beautiful crown upon your head. [10] My son, listen to me and do as I say, and you will have a long, good life. [11] I would have you learn this great fact: that a life of doing right is the wisest life there is. [12] If you live that kind of life, you'll not limp or stumble as you run. [13] Carry out my instructions; don't forget them, for they will lead you to real living. [14] Don't do as the wicked do. [15] Avoid their haunts-turn away, go somewhere else, [16] for evil men can't sleep until they've done their evil deed for the day. They can't rest unless they cause someone to stumble and fall. [17] They eat and drink wickedness and violence! [18] But the good man walks along in the ever-brightening light of God's favor; the dawn gives way to morning splendor, [19] while the evil man gropes and stumbles in the dark. [20] Listen, son of mine, to what I say. Listen carefully. [21] Keep these thoughts ever in mind; let them penetrate deep within your heart, [22] for they will mean real life for you and radiant health. [23] Above all else, guard your affections. For they influence everything else in your life. [24] Spurn the careless kiss of a prostitute. Stay far from her. [25] Look straight ahead; don't even turn your head to look. [26] Watch your step. Stick to the path and be safe. [27] Don't sidetrack; pull back your foot from danger.
