A Father’s Wise Advice

1 My children,* listen when your father corrects you.

Pay attention and learn good judgment,

2 for I am giving you good guidance.

Don’t turn away from my instructions.

3 For I, too, was once my father’s son,

tenderly loved as my mother’s only child.

4 My father taught me,

“Take my words to heart.

Follow my commands, and you will live.

5 Get wisdom; develop good judgment.

Don’t forget my words or turn away from them.

6 Don’t turn your back on wisdom, for she will protect you.

Love her, and she will guard you.

7 Getting wisdom is the wisest thing you can do!

And whatever else you do, develop good judgment.

8 If you prize wisdom, she will make you great.

Embrace her, and she will honor you.

9 She will place a lovely wreath on your head;

she will present you with a beautiful crown.”

10 My child,* listen to me and do as I say,

and you will have a long, good life.