Ben Sira 51:18-28

18 For I resolved to live according to wisdom, and I was zealous for the good; and I shall never be put to shame.
19 My 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.
20 I directed my soul to her, and through purification I found her. I gained understanding with her from the first, therefore I will not be forsaken.
21 My heart was stirred to seek her, therefore I have gained a good possession.
22 The Lord gave me a tongue as my reward, and I will praise him with it.
23 Draw near to me, you who are untaught, and lodge in my school.
24 Why do you say you are lacking in these things, and why are your souls very thirsty?
25 I opened my mouth and said, Get these things for yourselves without money.
26 Put your neck under the yoke, and let your souls receive instruction; it is to be found close by.
27 See with your eyes that I have labored little and found myself much rest.
28 Get instruction with a large sum of silver, and you will gain by it much gold.
Revised Standard Version of the Bible, copyright 1952 [2nd edition, 1971] by the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.