1. I found the son of Adam in his prime,
Pursuing what benefits him and delights.

2. His world clung to him before he was weaned,
And he kept toiling until he grew old and feeble.

3. Yet his eyes aspire to its trinkets,
Though it would be better for the beholder to be aloof.

4. He rejoices in its heyday,
As if its changes were never known.

5. And from love of it he sheds tears,
Though weeping avails not when Fate decrees.

6. And many a day has passed over his grave
While the fair ones reveled without a thought.

7. Does he seek water from mirage
And leave a full pool for those who draw water?

8. He commits no sin to please his Lord
Yet his crimes are manifold.

9. Like a worker who did his master wrong,
Surely he shall depart empty-handed!

10. Our heedless sustenance has come to us,
Though we are not professionals earning a livelihood.

11. O gazelle of the valley, beware the hunters' traps
Let not the verdant meadow deceive you!