For thou takest no pleasure in sacrifice, No delight in gifts of burnt-offering. The sacrifices pleasing to thee Are a broken and a contrite spirit. THE SAYINGS OF THE WISE THE REWARDS OF LISTENING TO THE ADVICE OF THE WISE My son, if you heed my words, And store my commands in your mind, Pay close attention to wisdom, And give careful heed to reason. If you will but seek her as silver, And search for her as for hid treasures, You shall then understand true religion, And gain a knowledge of God. For wisdom shall enter your mind, And knowledge shall be pleasant to you, Discretion shall watch over you, And understanding shall guard you, To keep you from doing wrong, From men whose words are evil, Who leave the paths of right To walk in ways that are dark, Who rejoice in doing wrong, And take pleasure in evil deeds. Happy the man who finds wisdom, And he who gains understanding. In her right hand is long life, In her left are riches and honor. Her ways are pleasant ways, And all her paths are peaceful. She gives life to those who seek her, They are happy who hold her fast. You shall then go on your way securely, And your foot shall never stumble. When you sit down, you shall not be afraid, When you lie down, your sleep shall be sweet. WHAT GOD LIKES AND DISLIKES The eyes of the Lord are all-seeing, Keeping watch on both wicked and good. A man thinks all that he does is right, But the Lord tests the motive. A man plans the way in his mind, But the Lord directs his steps. The Lord detests a false balance, But a just balance is his delight. To do what is just and right Is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice. The conduct of the wicked is hateful to him, But he loves the man eager to do right. The Lord detests the evil-minded, But is well pleased with him who lives uprightly. The sacrifice of the wicked is hateful to the Lord, But the prayer of the upright is a delight to him! The Lord holds aloof from the wicked, But hears the prayer of the upright. Lying lips are hateful to the Lord, But they who act honestly are his delight. There are six things that the Lord hates, Yes, seven are detestable to him: Haughty eyes and a lying tongue, And hands that shed innocent blood, A mind that plans wicked schemes, Feet that make haste to do evil, A false witness who utters lies, And he who sows strife between brothers. GOD'S CARE FOR THOSE WHO TRY TO DO RIGHT