Wisdom 4:1–9
1It is better to be childless with virtue, for immortality is in the memory of virtue, because it is recognized both before God and before men.↗
2When it is present, people imitate it. They long after it when it has departed. Throughout all time it marches, crowned in triumph, victorious in the competition for the prizes that are undefiled.↗
3But the multiplying brood of the ungodly will be of no profit, and their illegitimate offshoots won’t take deep root, nor will they establish a sure hold.↗
4For even if they grow branches and flourish for a season, standing unsure, they will be shaken by the wind. They will be uprooted by the violence of winds.↗
5Their branches will be broken off before they come to maturity. Their fruit will be useless, never ripe to eat, and fit for nothing.↗
6For unlawfully conceived children are witnesses of wickedness against parents when they are investigated.↗
7But a righteous man, even if he dies before his time, will be at rest.↗
8For honorable old age is not that which stands in length of time, nor is its measure given by number of years,↗
9but understanding is gray hair to men, and an unspotted life is ripe old age.↗
Source: World English Bible (Catholic), public domain. Text is taken directly from the source. Headings are editorial, not biblical verses.
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