Proverbs [Sayings] 4:1-11

¹Sh'ma ·Hear obey·, sons, to a father’s instruction. Pay attention and know understanding;

²for I give you sound learning. Don’t forsake my Torah ·Teaching·.

³For I was a son to my father, tender and an only child in the sight of my mother.

⁴He taught me, and said to me: “Let your heart retain my words. Keep my mitzvot ·instructions·, and live.

⁵Get wisdom. Get understanding. Don’t forget, neither swerve from the words of my mouth.

⁶Don’t forsake her, and she will preserve you. 'Ahav ·Affectionately love· her, and she will keep you.

⁷Wisdom is supreme. Get wisdom. Yes, though it costs all your possessions, get understanding.

⁸Esteem her, and she will exalt you. She will bring you to honor, when you embrace her.

⁹She will give to your head a garland of chen ·grace·. She will deliver a crown of splendor to you.”

¹⁰Sh'ma ·Hear obey·, my son, and receive my sayings. The years of your life will be many.

¹¹I have taught you in the way of wisdom. I have led you in straight paths.