Bible Browser

In Praise of Wisdom

1All wisdom is from the Lord,
   and with him it remains for ever.
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 wisdom^*—who can search them out?
⁴ Wisdom was created before all other things,
   and prudent understanding from eternity.^*
6 The root of wisdom—to whom has it been revealed?
   Her subtleties—who knows them?^*
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.^*

¹⁸ The fear of the Lord is the crown of wisdom,
   making peace and perfect health to flourish.^*
19 She rained down knowledge and discerning comprehension,
   and she heightened the glory of those who held her fast.
²⁰ To fear the Lord is the root of wisdom,
   and her branches are long life.^*

²² Unjust anger cannot be justified,
   for anger tips the scale to one’s ruin.
²³ Those who are patient stay calm until the right moment,
   and then cheerfulness comes back to them.
²⁴ They hold back their words until the right moment;
   then the lips of many tell of their good sense.

²⁵ In the treasuries of wisdom are wise sayings,
   but godliness is an abomination to a sinner.
²⁶ If you desire wisdom, keep the commandments,
   and the Lord will lavish her upon you.
²⁷ For the fear of the Lord is wisdom and discipline,
   fidelity and humility are his delight.