Ben Sira 1:3-13

3 The height of heaven, the breadth of the earth, the abyss, and wisdom ^[a]—who can search them out?

4 Wisdom was created before all other things, and prudent understanding from eternity. ^[b]

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.

11 The fear of the Lord is glory and exultation, and gladness and a crown of rejoicing.

12 The fear of the Lord delights the heart, and gives gladness and joy and long life.

13 Those who fear the Lord will have a happy end; on the day of their death they will be blessed.

Footnotes

• [a] Other ancient authorities read [the depth of the abyss]
• [b] Other ancient authorities add as verse 5, [The source of wisdom is God's word in the highest heaven, and her ways are the eternal commandments.]
• [c] Other ancient authorities add as verse 7, [The knowledge of wisdom--to whom was it manifested? And her abundant experience--who has understood it?]
• [d] Other ancient authorities add [Love of the Lord is glorious wisdom; to those to whom he appears he apportions her, that they may see him.]
• [e] Other ancient authorities add [The fear of the Lord is a gift from the Lord; also for love he makes firm paths.]