7 But a righteous man, even if he dies before his time, will be at rest.

8 Because honourable old age isn’t that which stands in length of time,

nor is its measure given by number of years,

9 but understanding is grey hair to men,

and an unspotted life is ripe old age.

10 Being found well-pleasing to God, someone was loved.

While living among sinners he was transported.

11 He was caught away, so that evil wouldn’t change his understanding,

or guile deceive his soul.

12 Because the fascination of wickedness obscures the things which are good,

and the whirl of desire perverts an innocent mind.

13 Being made perfect quickly,

he filled a long time;

14 for his soul was pleasing to the master.

Therefore he hurried away from wickedness.

15 But the peoples saw and didn’t understand,

not considering this, that grace and mercy are with his chosen,

and that he visits his holy ones;

16 but a righteous man who’s dead will condemn the ungodly who are living,

and youth who’s quickly perfected will condemn the many years of an unrighteous man’s old age.

17 Because the ungodly will see a wise man’s end,

and won’t understand what the master planned for him,

and why he safely kept him.

18 They’ll see, and they’ll despise;

but the master will laugh them to scorn.

After this, they’ll become a dishonoured carcass

and a reproach among the dead forever;

19 because he’ll dash them speechless to the ground,

and will shake them from the foundations.

They’ll lie utterly waste.

They’ll be in anguish

and their memory will perish.

20 They’ll come with coward fear when their sins are counted.

Their lawless activities will convict them to their face.