1 Hark ! it is Wisdom's voice,
That spreads itself around ;
come hither, all ye sons of earth,
And listen to the sound.

2 What, though she speaks rebukes,
That pierce the soul with smart ?
Yet love through all her chast'nings runs
By pain to mend the heart.

3 "Ye who have wander'd long,
In sin's destructive ways ;
Return, return, at my reproof,
And seize the offer'd grace.

4 "I know your souls are weak,
And all your efforts vain ;
To overcome your mighty foes,
And break their iron chain.

5 "But, I will freely send
My spirit, from above,
To arm you with superior strength,
And melt your hearts to love.

6 "Come, whilst my offers last,
Ye sinners, and be wise ;
He lives who hears this friendly call,
But he that slights it dies."