Wisdom

Sirach 24:1-12

1 Wisdom praises herself, and tells of her glory in the midst of her people.

2 In the assembly of the Most High she opens her mouth, and in the presence of his hosts she tells of her glory:

3 "I came forth from the mouth of the Most High, and covered the earth like a mist.

4 I dwelt in the highest heavens, and my throne was in a pillar of cloud.

5 Alone I compassed the vault of heaven and traversed the depths of the abyss.

6 Over waves of the sea, over all the earth, and over every people and nation I have held sway."

7 Among all these I sought a resting place; in whose territory should I abide?

8 "Then the Creator of all things gave me a command, and my Creator chose the place for my tent. The Creator said, 'Make your dwelling in Jacob, and in Israel receive your inheritance.'

9 Before the ages, in the beginning, he created me, and for all the ages I shall not cease to be.

10 In the holy tent I ministered before him, and so I was established in Zion.

11 Thus in the beloved city he gave me a resting place, and in Jerusalem was my domain.

12 I took root in an honored people, in the portion of the Lord, his heritage.