The path of life leads upward for the prudent to keep them from going down to the realm of the dead.
NIV
The path of the wise leads upward to life, that he may avoid [the gloom] in the depths of Sheol (Hades, the place of the dead). [Phil. 3:20; Col. 3:1, 2.]AMP
The way of life is above to the wise, that he may depart from hell beneath.
KJV
My son, pay attention to my wisdom, turn your ear to my words of insight
NIV
MY SON, be attentive to my Wisdom [godly Wisdom learned by actual and costly experience], and incline your ear to my understanding [of what is becoming and prudent for you]AMP
My son, attend unto my wisdom, and bow thine ear to my understanding:
KJV