The Discipline of Wisdom

Wisdom was created before all the works of old

She is more valuable than rubies

Her wealth is more than fine gold

She gives knowledge to the young

Understanding to the wise

Subtility to the simpl

Simplicity is her guise

The first man knew her not perfectly

No more shall the last find her out

The fear of the Almighty is the beginning of wisdom

The Angel of the Lord camps round about

He who studies early finds wisdom

Understanding guides his steps

Justice guards his decisions

Judgment teaches him precepts

A wise man keepeth silence when he knows not what to say

He guides his affairs with discretion

He watches over his way

The instruction of wisdom shall teach thee

The knowledge of understanding shall be thy guide

The discipline of wisdom shall keep thee

In parables of knowledge shalt thou hide.

Walk not in the way of the sinner.

Give not counsel to a foolish man.

Guard the Order with all thy heart.

Transgress not the Chief Command:

Love the Almighty with all thy heart,

and with all thy soul,

and with all thy labor

The second commandment is namely this:

"As thyself, thou shalt love thy neighbor."

Trust in the Almighty with all thy heart

and lean not to thine own understanding.

In all thy ways acknowledge Him;

and He shall guide thee with His commanding.

By: Jonathan Hollis