Library Philo of Alexandria On the Creation
Chapter 37
On the Creation, §37
To shun vile deed of folly or fear:
While seven times seven years to sense
Add ready wit and eloquence.
And seven years further skill admit
To raise them to their perfect height.
When nine such periods have passed,
His powers, though milder grown, still last;
When God has granted ten times seven,
The aged man prepares for heaven.
English translation by C. D. Yonge, The Works of Philo Judaeus (London: Henry G. Bohn, 1854–55). Public domain. Digital text via Early Christian Writings.