Let my cry come before you, Lord; in keeping with your word, give me understanding.
But may the Lord give you prudence and discernment when he gives you command over Israel, so that you keep the law of the Lord, your God.
Give me, therefore, wisdom and knowledge to govern this people, for otherwise who could rule this vast people of yours?”
Then the levitical priests rose and blessed the people; their voice was heard and their prayer reached heaven, God’s holy dwelling.
Give me understanding to keep your law, to observe it with all my heart.
The cords of Sheol encircled me; the snares of death lay in wait for me.
He causes the changes of the times and seasons, establishes kings and deposes them. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who understand.
But if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God who gives to all generously and ungrudgingly, and he will be given it.