1. The sand dunes yield but leave no trace behind,
How can a short-lived thing claim immortality?

2. Death took them suddenly in their prime,
Like belts tightened around the horses' bellies.

3. Do not ask people for favors, but go and earn your bread,
Souls are determined to withhold their giving.

4. Perhaps generous hands were outstretched,
On Judgement Day, their palms will show the marks.

5. My camels have no bridles or saddlebags,
Each old man's rope frays out.

6. Why do I see the wise men of the East downcast
As if wisdom itself lies crushed inside them?

7. O women of the camp, if you are gazelles,
Then which of you can escape the clever hunter?

8. Prolific am I in my art, granting it
A letter needing no other to cling to.

9. A man raises up actions only to be brought down by them,
Until, when he dies, he becomes completely broken.