Autobiographical Poem on Wisdom

¹³While I was still young, before I went on my travels,
   I sought wisdom openly in my prayer.
¹⁴Before the temple I asked for her,
   and I will search for her until the end.

¹⁵From the first blossom to the ripening grape
   my heart delighted in her;
my foot walked on the straight path;
   from my youth I followed her steps.

¹⁶I inclined my ear a little and received her,
   and I found for myself much instruction.
¹⁷I made progress in her;
   to him who gives wisdom I will give glory.

¹⁸For I resolved to live according to wisdom,^*
   and I was zealous for the good,
   and I shall never be disappointed.
¹⁹My soul grappled with wisdom,^*
   and in my conduct I was strict;^*

I spread out my hands to the heavens,
   and lamented my ignorance of her.
²⁰I directed my soul to her,
   and in purity I found her.

With her I gained understanding from the first;
   therefore I will never be forsaken.
²¹My heart was stirred to seek her;
   therefore I have gained a prize possession.
²²The Lord gave me my tongue as a reward,
   and I will praise him with it.

²³Draw near to me, you who are uneducated,
   and lodge in the house of instruction.
²⁴Why do you say you are lacking in these things,^*
   and why do you endure such great thirst?
²⁵I opened my mouth and said,
   Acquire wisdom^* for yourselves without money.

²⁶Put your neck under her^* yoke,
   and let your souls receive instruction;
   it is to be found close by.