1. Lament for humankind, weep or refrain,
As they march unrestrained like birds in a snare.

2. No molded gold nor forged steel,
Immortalizes kings whose ashes time will bare.

3. Can the knight evade his fate?
His coat of mail, however well knit, Death will tear.

4. My God! Lord of all creation, Lord of life and decay!
I asked one learned about You, he stumbled in what to say.

5. Exalted beyond comprehension, Your greatness encompasses
The frail spider web, the mighty lion's lair.

6. In Baalbek did Amr drink to excess?
He shunned his cup, was that wise or unfair?