8For enquire, I pray you, of former ages, and apply yourself to the truths learned by our fathers 9(For we are but of yesterday, and know nothing, because our days upon earth are a shadow). 10Shall they not teach you, and tell you, and utter words out of their heart? 11Can the rush grow up without mire? Can the flag grow without water? 12While it is yet in its greenness, and not cut down, it withers before any other herb (when deprived of water). 13So are the paths of all who forget God; and the hypocrite's hope shall perish, 14Whose confidence shall be cut off, and whose trust shall be like a spider's web. 15He trusts in his house, but it shall not stand; he shall hold it fast, but it shall not endure. 16He is green before the sun, and his branch shoots forth in his garden. 17His roots are wrapped about the heap, and sees the place of stones. 18If he is taken from his place, it shall deny him, saying, ‘I have never seen you’. 19Behold, this is the joy of his way, and out of the earth shall others grow.

20Behold, God will not cast away a perfect man, neither will He help the evil doers, 21Till He fills your mouth with laughing, and your lips with rejoicing. 22They who hate you shall be clothed with shame; and the dwelling place of the wicked shall come to nothing”.