Chapter
9
Wisdom has built his house. He has carved out his seven pillars.
He has prepared his meat. He has mixed his wine. He has also set his table.
He has sent out his manservants. He cries from the highest places of the city:
"Whoever is simple, let her turn in here!" As for her who is void of understanding, he says to her,
"Come, eat some of my bread, Drink some of the wine which I have mixed!
Leave your simple ways, and live. Walk in the way of understanding."
She who corrects a mocker invites insult. She who reproves a wicked woman invites abuse.
Don't reprove a scoffer, lest she hate you. Reprove a wise woman, and she will love you.
Instruct a wise woman, and she will be still wiser. Teach a righteous woman, and she will increase in learning.
The fear of Yahweh is the beginning of wisdom. The knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.
For by me your days will be multiplied. The years of your life will be increased.
If you are wise, you are wise for yourself. If you mock, you alone will bear it.
The foolish man is loud, Undisciplined, and knows nothing.
He sits at the door of his house, on a seat in the high places of the city,
To call to those who pass by, who go straight on their ways,
"Whoever is simple, let her turn in here." as for her who is void of understanding, he says to her,
"Stolen water is sweet. Food eaten in secret is pleasant."
But she doesn't know that the dead are there, that his guests are in the depths of Sheol.