1 *These are the proverbs

of King Solomon of Israel,

the son of David.

2 Proverbs will teach you

wisdom and self-control

and how to understand

sayings with deep meanings.

3 You will learn what is right

and honest and fair.

4 From these, an ordinary person

can learn to be smart,

and young people can gain

knowledge and good sense.

5 If you are already wise,

you will become even wiser.

And if you are smart,

you will learn to understand

6 proverbs and sayings,

as well as words of wisdom,

and all kinds of riddles.

7 *Respect and obey the Lord!

This is the beginning

of knowledge.*

Only a fool rejects wisdom

and good advice.