Ben Sira 51:16-26

16 I inclined my ear a little and received her, and I found for myself much instruction.
17 I made progress in her; to him who gives wisdom I will give glory.
18 For I resolved to live according to wisdom, and I was zealous for the good, and I shall never be disappointed.
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 in purity I found her. With her I gained understanding from the first; therefore I will never be forsaken.
21 My heart was stirred to seek her; therefore I have gained a prize possession.
22 The Lord gave me my tongue as a reward, and I will praise him with it.
23 Draw near to me, you who are uneducated, and lodge in the house of instruction.
24 Why do you say you are lacking in these things, and why do you endure such great thirst?
25 I opened my mouth and said, Acquire wisdom for yourselves without money.
26 Put your neck under her yoke, and let your souls receive instruction; it is to be found close by.

Footnotes 6

  • [a]. Gk [her]
  • [b]. Gk [her]
  • [c]. Meaning of Gk uncertain
  • [d]. Cn Compare Heb Syr: Meaning of Gk uncertain
  • [e]. Heb: Gk lacks [wisdom]
  • [f]. Heb: other ancient authorities read [the]
New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright 1989, 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.