Assemble and hear, O sons of Jacob; listen to Israel your father.
Come, O children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the Lord.
My child, give me your heart, and let your eyes observe my ways.
Listen to your father who begot you, and do not despise your mother when she is old.
“And now, my children, listen to me: happy are those who keep my ways.
And now, my children, listen to me, and be attentive to the words of my mouth.
My child, keep my words and store up my commandments with you;
My child, keep your father’s commandment, and do not forsake your mother’s teaching.
My child, be attentive to my wisdom; incline your ear to my understanding,
Reuben, you are my firstborn, my might and the first fruits of my vigor, excelling in rank and excelling in power.
Which of you desires life and covets many days to enjoy good?
Assemble, all of you, and hear! Who among them has declared these things? The one the Lord loves shall perform his purpose against Babylon, and his arm shall be against the Chaldeans.