1. I found you knew not the paths of guidance,
So reveal not to the people the ways to ruin.

2. A good man on an ancient course worn down
Makes easy the way for the sinner in straits.

3. And time is but a destroyer after prosperity
Announcing our ruin or prosperity after ruin.

4. I have tested the affairs of mankind since Adam’s time
And have found naught but ruin after ruin.

5. When I die I shall not heed any mourner’s greeting,
Nor know which of the ways to death I go.

6. If this dust brings us together in the end,
The people of burdens are like the people of kingdoms.