1 Hear, ye sons, the instruction of a father, And give attention to know understanding.2 For good learning I have given to you, My law forsake not.3 For, a son I have been to my father -- tender, And an only one before my mother.4 And he directeth me, and he saith to me: Let thy heart retain my words, Keep my commands, and live.5 Get wisdom, get understanding, Do not forget, nor turn away From the sayings of my mouth.6 Forsake her not, and she doth preserve thee, Love her, and she doth keep thee.