1Wisdom rules the universe

and keeps it in order.

Solomon's Love for Wisdom

2 Since the time I was young,

I have loved and searched

for Wisdom.

I was charmed by her beauty

and wanted her for my bride.

3The Lord God of all loves her,

and her glorious origin

becomes even more glorious,

because she lives with God.

4 She understands God's mysteries

and works together with him.

5Wisdom is more desirable

than wealth-- she makes

everything run smoothly.

6Wisdom is more useful

than knowledge--she designed

everything that is.

7 If you truly love what is right,

learn from her,

the source of all goodness:

of justice and courage,

understanding and self-control;

all the important things

that help us live our lives.

8Do you desire wide experience?

Wisdom knows what has happened

and predicts the future;

she knows the meaning of words

and the answers to riddles.

Wisdom knows in advance

the miracles God will work

and all that will take place.

Rulers Need Wisdom

9So I decided to bring Wisdom

home to live with me--

she will offer good advice,

as well as comfort in times

of suffering and grief.

10She will bring me great honor

from advisors and many others,

even though I am young.

11I will have sound judgment

and be admired by rulers.

12They will wait for my opinion,

then listen when I speak,

and they will be amazed

at my marvelous speeches.

13Because of Wisdom,

my name will live on forever.

14I will rule many nations

15and be a hero in battle;

oppressive rulers will tremble

at the mention of my name.

16With Wisdom as my friend,

I will live happily and at peace,

with no bitter regrets.

17I thought deeply about Wisdom

and all that she offered--

unending life 18and perfect joy

because of her friendship;

wealth and understanding

because of her companionship;

and fame because of her words.

So I searched for Wisdom.

19I was an intelligent child,

born with a good soul--

20rather, since my soul was good,

it entered a perfect body.

21I had the insight to realize

Wisdom is the gift of God,

and so with all my heart

I prayed for Wisdom.