The first section begins with introductory remarks on the duties and proper conduct of a "disciple of the wise"; then follow seven teachings, each a precept in four parts, which, however, are often confused in the text as it now exists.
The initial part starts with remarks on the duties and expected conduct of someone who is a devoted student of wisdom; this is followed by seven instructions, each consisting of four parts, although they are often mistakenly identified in the current version of the text.