The King James Version Bible

Wisdom of Solomon 8:6-19

  1. And if prudence work; who of all that are is a more cunning workman than she?

  2. And if a man love righteousness her labours are virtues: for she teacheth temperance and prudence, justice and fortitude: which are such things, as en can have nothing more profitable in their life.

  3. If a man desire much experience, she knoweth things of old, and conjectureth aright what is to come: she knoweth the subtilties of speeches, and can expound dark sentences: she foreseeth signs and wonders, and the events of seasons and times.

  4. Therefore I purposed to take her to me to live with me, knowing that she would be a counsellor of good things, and a comfort in cares and grief.

  5. For her sake I shall have estimation among the multitude, and honour with the elders, though I be young.

  6. I shall be found of a quick conceit in judgment, and shall be admired in the sight of great men.

  7. When I hold my tongue, they shall bide my leisure, and when I speak, they shall give good ear unto me: if I talk much, they shall lay their hands upon their mouth.

  8. Moreover by the means of her I shall obtain immortality, and leave behind me an everlasting memorial to them that come after me.

  9. I shall set the people in order, and the nations shall be subject unto me.

  10. Horrible tyrants shall be afraid, when they do but hear of me; I shall be found good among the multitude, and valiant in war.

  11. After I am come into mine house, I will repose myself with her: for her conversation hath no bitterness; and to live with her hath no sorrow, but mirth and joy.

  12. Now when I considered these things in myself, and pondered them in my heart, how that to be allied unto wisdom is immortality;

  13. And great pleasure it is to have her friendship; and in the works of her hands are infinite riches; and in the exercise of conference with her, prudence; and in talking with her, a good report; I went about seeking how to take her to me.

  14. For I was a witty child, and had a good spirit.