The Way of Wisdom

(Ezra 4:6-16; Esther 1:1-9; Proverbs 1:1-7)

1Wisdom has built her house. She has carved out her seven pillars.

2She has prepared her meat. She has mixed her wine. She has also set her table.

3She has sent out her maidens. She cries from the highest places of the city:

4“Whoever is simple, let him turn in here!” As for him who is void of understanding, she says to him,

5“Come, eat some of my bread, Drink some of the wine which I have mixed!

6Leave your simple ways, and live. Walk in the way of understanding.”

7One who corrects a mocker invites insult. One who reproves a wicked man invites abuse.

8Don’t reprove a scoffer, lest he hate you. Reprove a wise person, and he will love you.

9Instruct a wise person, and he will be still wiser. Teach a righteous person, and he will increase in learning.

10The fear of Yahweh is the beginning of wisdom. The knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.

11For by me your days will be multiplied. The years of your life will be increased.

12If you are wise, you are wise for yourself. If you mock, you alone will bear it.

The Way of Folly

13The foolish woman is loud, undisciplined, and knows nothing.

14She sits at the door of her house, on a seat in the high places of the city,

15to call to those who pass by, who go straight on their ways,

16“Whoever is simple, let him turn in here.” As for him who is void of understanding, she says to him,

17“Stolen water is sweet. Food eaten in secret is pleasant.”

18But he doesn’t know that the departed spirits are there, that her guests are in the depths of Sheol.