First Reading

I thank the Lord and I praise him;

I bless the name of the Lord.

When I was young and innocent,

I sought wisdom openly in my prayer

I prayed for her before the temple,

and I will seek her until the end,

and she flourished as a grape soon ripe.

My heart delighted in her,

My feet kept to the level path

because from earliest youth I was familiar with her.

In the short time I paid heed,

I met with great instruction.

Since in this way I have profited,

I will give my teacher grateful praise.

I became resolutely devoted to her—

the good I persistently strove for.

My soul was tormented in seeking her,

My hand opened her gate

and I came to know her secrets.

I directed my soul to her,

and in cleanness I attained to her.