(8.) Good is the end of a matter (in its technical sense of a reasoning) above its beginning; good is a long spirit above a high spirit (this is equivocal; ‘long-suffering is better than high mindedness’ will render the equivoke. Thus, then, it appears that these aphorisms are all closely related to one another, or, at any rate, hang on the same thread of argument. The existence of oppression makes the wise man mad by reason of disappointed hopes, and destroys his purpose; but he must wait to see the end, and be patient. ‘Good’ has occurred in seven paradoxical relations, having the appearance of evil. The same strain is continued in the following, but the argument is somewhat different).
9 Be not hasty in thy spirit to be angry: for anger resteth in the bosom of fools.
Do not be in haste to be disappointed; for disappointment nestles in the bosom of the befooled.
(9.) Do not hasten in thy spirit to be angered (by disappointment), for anger in the bosom of befooled ones rests.
10 Say not thou, What is the cause that the former days were better than these? for thou dost not inquire [¹]wisely concerning this.
[¹] Hebrew out of wisdom.
Do not say either, How was it that former days were so good as compared with these? because it is not wisdom which prompts you to inquire in this way.