Ben Sira 1:4-14

4 Wisdom was created before anything else; understanding has always existed. ^[a]

6 Has anyone ever been shown where Wisdom originates? Does anyone understand her subtle cleverness?

8 There is only one who is wise, and we must stand in awe before his throne.

9 The Lord himself created Wisdom; ¹ he saw her and recognized her value, and so he filled everything he made with Wisdom.

10 He gave some measure of Wisdom to everyone, but poured her out on those who love him.

11 If you fear the Lord, honor and pride will be yours; you will be crowned with happiness and joy.

12 To honor the Lord is a heartfelt delight; it will give you a long and happy life,

13 and at the end of your days all will go well for you. God will bless you on the day of your death.

14 To fear the Lord is the first step to Wisdom. Wisdom is given to the faithful in their mothers' wombs.

Cross References

• 1. 1.9Proverbs 8.22-31;Ben Sira 24.9.

Footnotes

• [a]. [Some manuscripts add verse 5:] The source of Wisdom is the word of God on high; her ways are eternal commands.
• [b]. [Some manuscripts add verse 7:] To whom has the knowledge of Wisdom been revealed? Who has understood her great experience?