The Wisdom of Solomon 7:7-14

[7] Therefore I prayed, and understanding was given me;
I called upon God, and the spirit of wisdom came to me.
[8] I preferred her to scepters and thrones,
and I accounted wealth as nothing in comparison with her.
[9] Neither did I liken to her any priceless gem,
because all gold is but a little sand in her sight,
and silver will be accounted as clay before her.
[10] I loved her more than health and beauty,
and I chose to have her rather than light,
because her radiance never ceases.
[11] All good things came to me along with her,
and in her hands uncounted wealth.
[12] I rejoiced in them all, because wisdom leads them;
but I did not know that she was their mother.
[13] I learned without guile and I impart without grudging;
I do not hide her wealth,
[14] for it is an unfailing treasure for men;
those who get it obtain friendship with God,
commended for the gifts that come from instruction.

IMAGE: Marcello Bacciarelli, Allegory of Wisdom (c. 1793)