7
For the Lord of all will not stand in awe of any one, nor show deference to greatness; because he himself made both small and great, and he takes thought for all alike.
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But a strict inquiry is in store for the mighty.
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To you then, O monarchs, my words are directed, that you may learn wisdom and not transgress.
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For they will be made holy who observe holy things in holiness, and those who have been taught them will find a defense.
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Therefore set your desire on my words; long for them, and you will be instructed.
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Wisdom is radiant and unfading, and she is easily discerned by those who love her, and is found by those who seek her.
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She hastens to make herself known to those who desire her.
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He who rises early to seek her will have no difficulty, for he will find her sitting at his gates.
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To fix one's thought on her is perfect understanding, and he who is vigilant on her account will soon be free from care,
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because she goes about seeking those worthy of her, and she graciously appears to them in their paths, and meets them in every thought.
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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.