17 My son, when thou art in prosperity walk humbly,

And thou wilt be loved more than him that giveth gifts.

18 Humble thyself zin all greatnessz,

And thou wilt find mercy in the sight of Goda.

20 For many are the mercies of God,

And to the humble He revealeth His secret.

HA 21 bSeek not (to understand) what is too wonderfulc for thee,

And search not out that which is hid from thee.

22 Meditate upon that which thou must grasp,

And be not occupied with that which is hidb.

23 Have naught to do with that which is beyond thee,

For more hath been shown to thee than thou canst understand.

24 For many are the conceits of the sons of men,

And evil imaginations lead astray.

25 dWhere (there is) no apple of the eye, light is lacking,

And where (there is) no knowledge wisdom is wantingd.

(j) 3:26–28. Retribution on the Sinner

(= 3 distichs).