1 Hear this, all you nations. Listen, all you who live in this world.
2 Listen, ordinary and important people alike. Listen, those of you who are rich or poor.
3 My mouth will speak wise words. What I say from my heart will give understanding.
4 I will pay attention to a proverb. I will explain my riddle as I play the harp.
5 Why should I be afraid when trouble comes? Why should I fear when sinners are all around me? They are the kind of people who want to take advantage of me.
6 They trust in their wealth. They brag about how rich they are.
7 No man can pay for the life of anyone else. No one can give God what that would cost.