1. The vicissitudes of fate embitter life's joy,
And strange events arise in adversities.

2. Time with its rulings plays tricks,
And man is deceived and told lies.

3. People come and people go,
Good and evil are counted against them.

4. Death is not desired, yet wished for,
Hated, though life is torment.

5. Say to the son of David when you meet him,
You will find one sought and seeking.

6. A freeman made true his word willingly,
While the slave is beaten and cowed.

7. A person's actions show his likeness,
So act like your namesake, O Jacob!

8. You have milked for the people, do not forget me,
You are the spring of generosity, freshly drawn.

9. He who has done good, his good remains
As praise, and falsehoods pass away.