Wisdom Brings Happiness

13 Happy is a man who finds wisdom l

and who acquires understanding,

14 for she is more profitable than silver,

and her revenue is better than gold. m

15 She is more precious than jewels; n

nothing you desire compares with her. o

16 Long life p is in her right hand;

in her left, riches and honor. q

17 Her ways are pleasant, r

and all her paths, peaceful.

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

and those who hold on to her are happy.

19 The Lord founded the earth by wisdom t

and established the heavens by understanding.

20 By His knowledge the watery depths broke open, u

and the clouds dripped with dew. v

21 Maintain your competence and discretion.

My son, don’t lose sight of them. w

22 They will be life for you x y z

and adornment a for your neck.

23 Then you will go safely on your way;

your foot will not stumble. b

24 When you lie c down, you will not be afraid; d

you will lie down, and your sleep will be pleasant.

25 Don’t fear sudden danger

or the ruin of the wicked when it comes, e

26 for the Lord will be your confidence f

and will keep your foot from a snare. g

Treat Others Fairly

27 When it is in your power, h

don’t withhold good i from the one it belongs to.

28 Don’t say to your neighbor, “Go away! Come back later.

I’ll give it tomorrow”—when it is there with you. j

29 Don’t plan any harm against your neighbor, k

for he trusts you and lives near you.

30 Don’t accuse anyone without cause, l

when he has done you no harm.

31 Don’t envy a violent man m

or choose any of his ways;

32 for the devious are detestable to the Lord,

but He is a friend n to the upright. o

33 The Lord’s curse is on the household of the wicked, p

but He blesses the home of the righteous;

34 He mocks those who mock,

but gives grace to the humble. q

35 The wise will inherit honor,

but He holds up fools to dishonor. r