1
In three things I was beautified, and stood up beautiful both before God and men: the unity of brethren, the love of neighbours, a man and a wife that agree together.
2
Three sorts of men my soul hateth, and I am greatly offended at their life: a poor man that is proud, a rich man that is a liar, and an old adulterer that doateth.
3
If thou hast gathered nothing in thy youth, how canst thou find any thing in thine age?
4
O how comely a thing is judgment for gray hairs, and for ancient men to know counsel!
5
O how comely is the wisdom of old men, and understanding and counsel to men of honour.
6
Much experience is the crown of old men, and the fear of God is their glory.
7
There be nine things which I have judged in mine heart to be happy, and the tenth I will utter with my tongue: A man that hath joy of his children; and he that liveth to see the fall of his enemy:
8
Well is him that dwelleth with a wife of understanding, and that hath not slipped with his tongue, and that hath not served a man more unworthy than himself:
9
Well is him that hath found prudence, and he that speaketh in the ears of them that will hear: