The Joys of Life

18 Wealth and wages make life sweet,e

but better than either is finding a treasure.

19 Children and the building of a city establish one’s name,

but better than either is the one who finds wisdom.

Cattle and orchards make one prosperous;f

but a blameless wife is accounted better than either.

20 Wine and music gladden the heart,

but the love of friendsg is better than either.

21 The flute and the harp make sweet melody,

but a pleasant voice is better than either.

22 The eye desires grace and beauty,

but the green shoots of grain more than either.

23 A friend or companion is always welcome,

but a sensible wifeh is better than either.

24 Kindred and helpers are for a time of trouble,

but almsgiving rescues better than either.

25 Gold and silver make one stand firm,

but good counsel is esteemed more than either.

26 Riches and strength build up confidence,

but the fear of the Lord is better than either.

There is no want in the fear of the Lord,

and with it there is no need to seek for help.

27 The fear of the Lord is like a garden of blessing,

and covers a person better than any glory.