While it is yet green and not cut down, it dries up before any other plant.

So are the paths of all who forget the Mighty God; and the hope of the ungodly shall perish,

that the rejoicing of the wicked is near its end, and the mirth of the hypocrite is but for a moment?

yet he shall perish forever like his own dung; those who see him shall say, where is he?

I have seen the wicked, ruthless, and spreading himself like a luxuriant native tree.

Yet he passed away, and lo, he was no more; indeed, I sought for him, but he could not be found.

In an instant he goes after her, as an ox goes to the slaughter, or as a fool goes to correction in fetters;

till an arrow strikes through his liver, as a bird hastens to the snare; and does not realize that it is for his soul.

Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring forth.

But take heed to yourselves, lest your hearts be weighed down with giddiness, drunkenness, and cares of this life, and that Day come upon you unexpectedly.

For it will come as a snare on all those who dwell on the face of the whole earth.

For when they say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction comes upon them, as labor pains upon a pregnant woman. And they shall by no means escape.