51 ¹³ While I was still young, before I went on my travels,
I sought wisdom openly in my prayer.
51 ¹⁴ Before the temple I asked for her,
and I will search for her to the last.
51 ¹⁵ From blossom to ripening grape my heart delighted in her;
my foot entered upon the straight path;
from my youth I followed her steps.
51 ¹⁶ I inclined my ear a little and received her,
and I found for myself much instruction.
51 ¹⁷ I made progress therein;
to him who gives wisdom I will give glory.
51 ¹⁸ For I resolved to live according to wisdom,
and I was zealous for the good;
and I shall never be put to shame.
51 ¹⁹ My soul grappled with wisdom,
and in my conduct I was strict;
I spread out my hands to the heavens,
and lamented my ignorance of her.
51 ²⁰ I directed my soul to her,
and through purification I found her.
I gained understanding with her from the first,
therefore I will not be forsaken.
51 ²¹ My heart was stirred to seek her,
therefore I have gained a good possession.
51 ²² The Lord gave me a tongue as my reward,
and I will praise him with it.

51 ²³ Draw near to me, you who are untaught,
and lodge in my school.
51 ²⁴ Why do you say you are lacking in these things,
and why are your souls very thirsty?
51 ²⁵ I opened my mouth and said,
Get these things for yourselves without money.
51 ²⁶ Put your neck under the yoke,
and let your souls receive instruction;
it is to be found close by.
51 ²⁷ See with your eyes that I have laboured little
and found myself much rest.
51 ²⁸ Get instruction with a large sum of silver,
and you will gain by it much gold.
51 ²⁹ May your soul rejoice in his mercy,
and may you not be put to shame when you praise him.
51 ³⁰ Do your work before the appointed time,
and in God's time he will give you your reward.