o happy is the man

o happy is the man who hears
instruction’s warning voice;
and who celestial wisdom makes
his early, only choice.

for she has treasures greater far
than east or west unfold;
and her rewards more precious are
than all their stores of gold.

in her right hand she holds to view
a length of happy days;
riches with splendid honors joined
are what her left displays.

she guides the young with innocence,
in pleasure’s paths to tread,
a crown of glory she bestows
upon the hoary head.

according as her labors rise,
so her rewards increase;
her ways are ways of pleasantness,
and all her paths are peace.