15:1
Whoever fears the Lord will act like this, and whoever grasps the Law will obtain wisdom.
15:2
She will come to meet him like a mother, and receive him like a virgin bride.
15:3
She will give him the bread of understanding to eat, and the water of wisdom to drink.
15:4
He will lean on her and will not fall, he will rely on her and not be put to shame.
15:5
She will raise him high above his neighbours, and in full assembly she will open his mouth.
15:6
He will find happiness and a crown of joy, he will inherit an everlasting name.
15:7
Fools will not gain possession of her, nor will sinners set eyes on her.
15:8
She stands remote from pride, and liars cannot call her to mind.
15:9
Praise is unseemly in a sinner's mouth, since it has not been put there by the Lord.
15:10
For praise should be uttered only in wisdom, and the Lord himself then prompts it.
15:11
Do not say, 'The Lord was responsible for my sinning,' for he does not do what he hates.
15:12
Do not say, 'It was he who led me astray,' for he has no use for a sinner.
15:13
The Lord hates all that is foul, and no one who fears him will love it either.
15:14
He himself made human beings in the beginning, and then left them free to make their own decisions.
15:15
If you choose, you will keep the commandments and so be faithful to his will.
15:16
He has set fire and water before you; put out your hand to whichever you prefer.
15:17
A human being has life and death before him; whichever he prefers will be given him.
15:18
For vast is the wisdom of the Lord; he is almighty and all-seeing.
15:19
His eyes are on those who fear him, he notes every human action.
15:20
He never commanded anyone to be godless, he has given no one permission to sin.
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