Saturday of the Twenty-Eighth Week in Ordinary Time

Certainly, I myself am also a mortal man, like everyone, and the offspring of this earth, which was made beforehand; and in my mother’s womb I was fashioned with care, within the time of ten months, made of blood, from the seed of man and the delight of sleeping together. And when I was born, I drew in the common air, and in similar fashion, I fell upon the earth, and the first voice I uttered, like everyone, was crying. I was nursed in swaddling clothes and with great care. For none of the kings had any other beginning of birth. Therefore, there is only one entrance for everyone into life, and the same in leaving. Because of this, I chose, and understanding was given to me; and I prayed, and the spirit of wisdom came to me; and I placed her before kingdoms and thrones, and I considered riches nothing in comparison with her. Neither did I compare to her a precious stone, for all gold in comparison with her is like a little sand, and silver, in view of her, will be valued as if dirt. I loved her above health and beauty, and I placed having her before light, for her light is unfailing. Yet all good things came to me together with her, and innumerable honors by her hand; and I rejoiced in all these, because this wisdom went before me, although I did not know that she is the mother of them all. This I have learned without falsehood and communicate without envy, and her integrity I do not hide. Indeed, she is an infinite treasure chest for men, and those who make use of it, become partakers in the friendship of God, because they are recommended by the gifts of instruction.