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 skillful workman than she?
7
And if a man love righteousness, her labors 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 subtleties 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 counselor of good things and a comfort in cares and grief.
10
For her sake I shall have esteem among the multitude and honor with the elders, though I be young.
11
I shall be found of a quick conception 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.