1
It is better to be childless with virtue,
2
When it is present, people imitate it.
3
But the multiplying brood of the ungodly will be of no profit,
4
For even if they grow branches and flourish for a season,
5
Their branches will be broken off before they come to maturity.
6
For unlawfully conceived children are witnesses of wickedness
7
But a righteous man, even if he dies before his time, will be at rest.
8
For honourable old age is not that which stands in length of time,
9
but understanding is grey hair to men,
10
Being found well-pleasing to God, someone was loved.
11
He was caught away, lest evil should change his understanding,
12
For the fascination of wickedness obscures the things which are good,
13
Being made perfect quickly,
14
for his soul was pleasing to the Lord.
15
But the peoples saw and didn’t understand,
16
but a righteous man who is dead will condemn the ungodly who are living,
17
For the ungodly will see a wise man’s end,
18
They will see, and they will despise;
19
because he will dash them speechless to the ground,
20
They will come with coward fear when their sins are counted.