1 But she reaches from one end to the other with full strength, and orders all things well.⁠a

Solomon Seeks Wisdom as His Companion

2 I loved her and sought her from my youth. I sought to make her my bride. I fell in love with her beauty.⁠b 3 She glorifies her noble birth by living with God. The Sovereign Lord of all loves her. 4 For she is initiated into the knowledge of God, and she chooses his works.

5 But if riches are a desired possession in life, what is richer than wisdom, which makes all things? 6 And if understanding is effective, who is a greater architect of what exists than wisdom? 7 If someone loves righteousness, the fruits of wisdom’s labor are virtues, for she teaches self-control, understanding, righteousness, and courage.⁠c There is nothing in life more beneficial for people than these. 8 And if anyone longs for wide experience, she knows the things of the past, and infers what is to come. She understands subtleties of speeches and interpretations of mysterious sayings.⁠d She foresees signs and wonders, and the outcomes of seasons and times.⁠e

9 Therefore I decided to take her to live with me, knowing that she is one who would give me good counsel, and encourage me in worry and grief. 10 Because of her, I will have glory among crowds, and honor among the elders, though I am young. 11 I will be seen as perceptive when I give judgment. I will be admired in the presence of rulers. 12 When I am silent, they will wait for me. When I speak, they will pay attention to what I say. If I continue speaking, they will put their hands on their mouths.⁠f 13 Because of her, I will have immortality, and leave behind an eternal memory to those who come after me.⁠g 14 I will govern peoples. Nations will be subject to me. 15 Dreaded monarchs will fear me when they hear of me. Among the people, I will show myself to be good, and courageous in war. 16 When I come into my house, I will find rest with her. For her company has no bitterness, and living with her has no pain, but gladness and joy.

Wisdom Must Be Received from God

17 When I considered these things within myself, and thought in my heart how immortality is in kinship with wisdom, 18 and her friendship offers wholesome delight, and her hands produce wealth that doesn’t fail, and understanding is in her companionship, and great honor comes from sharing in her words, I set out to find how to make her mine.

19 Now I was a clever child, and received a good soul. 20 Or rather, because I was good, I came into a pure body. 21 But I realized that I could not possess wisdom unless God gave her to me.⁠h Knowing who gives this gift was itself a mark of understanding.⁠i So I pleaded with the Lord and begged him, and with my whole heart I said: