1 The Proverbs of Solomon son of David, who reigned in Israel; 2 to know wisdom and instruction, and to perceive words of understanding; 3 to receive also *1. 3 Gr. turnings, q. d. knotty words. See Heb.hard sayings, and to understand true justice, and how to direct judgment; 4 that he might give subtlety to the simple, and to the young man *1. 4 Or, discretion.discernment and understanding. 5 For by the hearing of these a wise man will be wiser, and the man of understanding will gain direction; 6 and will understand a parable, and a dark speech; the sayings of the wise also, and riddles.

7 The fear of the Lord is the *1. 7 Or, sum, or, top.beginning of wisdom; and there is good understanding to all that practise it: and piety toward God is the beginning of discernment; but the ungodly will set at nought wisdom and instruction.