1. I saw the small in rank grow in his affairs
Until he became great with no limit to his greatness

2. And though it wearies you to make a fool understand
He reckons you a fool, he who understands not

3. When will a building one day reach completion
If you build it while another demolishes?

4. When will the generous exceed if he supposes
That if he gives little, he will have nothing left?

5. When will one desist from the evil he has done
If he feels no remorse for what he has done?

6. Livelihood is but a division among its people
So neither wealthy nor destitute will lack sustenance

7. Time will never change its nature
Whether it be despicable or honorable

8. Just as the water of bitterness never tasted sweet
While the ocean's water makes one retch