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The beginning of wisdom is the most sincere desire for instruction, and concern for instruction is love of her,
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and love of her is the keeping of her laws, and giving heed to her laws is assurance of immortality,
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and immortality brings one near to God;
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so the desire for wisdom leads to a kingdom.
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Therefore if you delight in thrones and scepters, O monarchs over the peoples, honor wisdom, that you may reign for ever.
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I will tell you what wisdom is and how she came to be, and I will hide no secrets from you, but I will trace her course from the beginning of creation, and make knowledge of her clear, and I will not pass by the truth;
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neither will I travel in the company of sickly envy, for envy does not associate with wisdom.
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A multitude of wise men is the salvation of the world, and a sensible king is the stability of his people.
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Therefore be instructed by my words, and you will profit.