Sirach 1:1–10

In Praise of Wisdom

1 All wisdom is from the Lord,

and with him it remains forever.

2 The sand of the sea, the drops of rain,

and the days of eternity—who can count them?

3 The height of heaven, the breadth of the earth,

the abyss, and wisdoma—who can search them out?

4 Wisdom was created before all other things,

and prudent understanding from eternity.b

6 The root of wisdom—to whom has it been revealed?

Her subtleties—who knows them?c

8 There is but one who is wise, greatly to be feared,

seated upon his throne—the Lord.

9 It is he who created her;

he saw her and took her measure;

he poured her out upon all his works,

10 upon all the living according to his gift;

he lavished her upon those who love him.d

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a	Other ancient authorities read the depth of the abyss
b	Other ancient authorities add as verse 5, The source of wisdom is God’s word in the highest heaven, and her ways are the eternal commandments.
c	Other ancient authorities add as verse 7, The knowledge of wisdom—to whom was it manifested? And her abundant experience—who has understood it?
d	Other ancient authorities add Love of the Lord is glorious wisdom; to those to whom he appears he apportions her, that they may see him.