1. We people of this age are foolish
As if we differ in morals

2. When men lack wisdom's guidance
They are like women, flawed and defective

3. Don't you see the plural of what is irrational
Is the plural feminine, with ta and alif

4. And people of nobility are described
As haughty, with conceit up their noses

5. How many a brother isn't close to his brother
Not joined like the eye, without kha or affinity

6. Take care lest your affairs fall apart
For people's utmost aim in life is gain

7. And if you come in disgrace, don't speak
The words of transgressors, "the predecessors did thus"

8. Swear not falsely or truly
For nought avails you but sin in oaths

9. But for my fear God will question me
About what I did, pretense would be little

10. We were youths, but length of days
Has left us graybeards and stooping

11. Time passes and breaths of people
Hasten steps toward destined ends

12. The mother of Dafar, his horse went astray
I treated her harshly, the due of the deserter

13. How I laughed at her frowning
Then thought better, and love and grace went

14. People are of four kinds; when united
They turn to seven dispositions distinct

15. Read my words when earth covers my body
For they are from one who came after