⁸ “Ask the former generation^(A)
    and find out what their ancestors learned,
⁹ for we were born only yesterday and know nothing,^(B)
    and our days on earth are but a shadow.^(C)
10 Will they not instruct^(D) you and tell you?
    Will they not bring forth words from their understanding?^(E)

¹² Is not wisdom found among the aged?^(A)
    Does not long life bring understanding?^(B)

“I am young in years,
    and you are old;^(A)
that is why I was fearful,
    not daring to tell you what I know.

⁷ I thought, ‘Age should speak;
    advanced years should teach wisdom.’^(A)