Proverbs 8:1-16 ▼

1 Doesn't wisdom cry out? Doesn't understanding raise her voice?

2 On the top of high places by the way, where the paths meet, she stands.

3 Beside the gates, at the entry of the city, at the entry doors, she cries aloud:

4 |To you men, I call. I send my voice to the sons of humankind.

5 You simple, understand prudence. You fools, be of an understanding heart.

6 Hear, for I will speak excellent things. The opening of my lips is for right things.

7 For my mouth speaks truth. Wickedness is an abomination to my lips.

8 All the words of my mouth are in righteousness. There is nothing crooked or perverse in them.

9 They are all plain to him who understands, right to those who find knowledge.

10 Receive my instruction rather than silver; knowledge rather than choice gold.

11 For wisdom is better than rubies. All the things that may be desired can't be compared to it.

12 |I, wisdom, have made prudence my dwelling. Find out knowledge and discretion.

13 The fear of the LORD is to hate evil. I hate pride, arrogance, the evil way, and the perverse mouth.

14 Counsel and sound knowledge are mine. I have understanding and power.

15 By me kings reign, and rulers decree justice.

16 By me princes rule; nobles, and all the righteous rulers of the earth.