16
A faithful friend is an elixir of life; and those who fear the Lord will find him.
17
Whoever fears the Lord directs his friendship aright, for as he is, so is his neighbor also.
18
My son, from your youth up choose instruction, and until you are old you will keep finding wisdom.
19
Come to her like one who plows and sows, and wait for her good harvest. For in her service you will toil a little while, and soon you will eat of her produce.
20
She seems very harsh to the uninstructed; a weakling will not remain with her.
21
She will weigh him down like a heavy testing stone, and he will not be slow to cast her off.
22
For wisdom is like her name, and is not manifest to many.
23
Listen, my son, and accept my judgment; do not reject my counsel.
24
Put your feet into her fetters, and your neck into her collar.
25
Put your shoulder under her and carry her, and do not fret under her bonds.
26
Come to her with all your soul, and keep her ways with all your might.