1. By my life, I have lived long in this world,
And the world has bowed to me with its burdens.

2. I was given the redness of wealth, rule and authority,
And all kings have surrendered to me.

3. That which once brought me joy,
Has become like a past decree in vanished times.

4. Oh, would that I had never known an hour of kingship,
Or pursued the pleasures of a prosperous life.

5. Would that I were like one with two handfuls,
Who lived in contentment and never saw a grave.