1. I see people have grown weary of good deeds, yet
I see no sons of successors except seekers of favors.

2. When they do good, they return to those they benefited,
Yet how often you see a benefactor who does not return.

3. When the clouds of death's deluge are lifted from them
Noble souls are uncovered from deep graves.

4. Kings inherit the thrones of kings before them,
Yet their excellence rises not above each noble soul.