4 Listen, my sons,^(A) to a father’s instruction;^(B)
    pay attention and gain understanding.^(C)
2 I give you sound learning,
    so do not forsake my teaching.
³ For I too was a son to my father,
    still tender, and cherished by my mother.
⁴ Then he taught me, and he said to me,
    “Take hold^(D) of my words with all your heart;
    keep my commands, and you will live.^(E)

²⁰ My son,^(A) keep your father’s command
    and do not forsake your mother’s teaching.^(B)
21 Bind them always on your heart;
    fasten them around your neck.^(C)
22 When you walk, they will guide you;
    when you sleep, they will watch over you;
    when you awake, they will speak to you.
²³ For this command is a lamp,
    this teaching is a light,^(D)
and correction and instruction
    are the way to life,^(E)

7 My son,^(A) keep my words
    and store up my commands within you.
² Keep my commands and you will live;^(B)
    guard my teachings as the apple of your eye.
³ Bind them on your fingers;
    write them on the tablet of your heart.^(C)