2
I loved her, and sought her out from my youth, I desired to make her my spouse, and I was a lover of her beauty.
3
In that she is conversant with God, she magnifieth her nobility: yea, the Lord of all things himself loved her.
4
For she is privy to the mysteries of the knowledge of God, and a lover of his works.
5
If riches be a possession to be desired in this life; what is richer than wisdom, that worketh all things?
6
And if prudence work; who of all that are is a more cunning workman than she?
7
And if a man love righteousness her labours are virtues: for she teacheth temperance and prudence, justice and fortitude: which are such things, as men can have nothing more profitable in their life.
8
If a man desire much experience, she knoweth things of old, and conjectureth aright what is to come: she knoweth the subtilties of speeches, and can expound dark sentences: she foreseeth signs and wonders, and the events of seasons and times.
9
Therefore I purposed to take her to me to live with me, knowing that she would be a counsellor of good things, and a comfort in cares and grief.
10
For her sake I shall have estimation among the multitude, and honour with the elders, though I be young.
11
I shall be found of a quick conceit in judgment, and shall be admired in the sight of great men.
12
When I hold my tongue, they shall bide my leisure, and when I speak, they shall give good ear unto me: if I talk much, they shall lay their hands upon their mouth.