1-6. These are the wise sayings of Solomon,David’s son, Israel’s king—Written down so we’ll know how to live well and right,to understand what life means and where it’s going;A manual for living,for learning what’s right and just and fair;To teach the inexperienced the ropesand give our young people a grasp on reality.There’s something here also for seasoned men and women,still a thing or two for the experienced to learn—Fresh wisdom to probe and penetrate,the rhymes and reasons of wise men and women.
20-21. Lady Wisdom goes out in the street and shouts.At the town center she makes her speech.In the middle of the traffic she takes her stand.At the busiest corner she calls out:
22-24. “Simpletons! How long will you wallow in ignorance?Cynics! How long will you feed your cynicism?Idiots! How long will you refuse to learn?About face! I can revise your life.Look, I’m ready to pour out my spirit on you;I’m ready to tell you all I know.As it is, I’ve called, but you’ve turned a deaf ear;I’ve reached out to you, but you’ve ignored me.