16. what chance do humans have?We are so terribly evilthat we thirst for sin.
17. Just listen to what I know,and you will learn
18. wisdom known by otherssince ancient times.
19. Those who gained such insightsalso gained the land,and they were not influencedby foreign teachings.
20. But suffering is in storeeach day for those who sin.
21. Even in times of success,they constantly hearthe threat of doom.
22. Darkness, despair, and deathare their destiny.
23. They scrounge around for food,all the while dreadingthe approaching darkness.
24. They are overcome with despair,like a terrified kingabout to go into battle.
25. This is because they rebelledagainst God All-Powerful
26. and have attacked himwith their weapons.
27. They may be rich and fat,
28. but they will live in the ruinsof deserted towns.
29. Their property and wealthwill shrink and disappear.
30. They won't escape the darkness,and the blazing breath of Godwill set their future aflame.
31-32. They have put their trustin something worthless;now they will become worthlesslike a date palm treewithout a leaf.