16. But when I considered how to understand this, it was too great an effort for me and too painful
17. Until I went into the sanctuary of God; then I understood [for I considered] their end.
18. [After all] You do set the [wicked] in slippery places; You cast them down to ruin and destruction.
19. How they become a desolation in a moment! They are utterly consumed with terrors!
20. As a dream [which seems real] until one awakens, so, O Lord, when You arouse Yourself [to take note of the wicked], You will despise their outward show.
21. For my heart was grieved, embittered, and in a state of ferment, and I was pricked in my heart [as with the sharp fang of an adder].
22. So foolish, stupid, and brutish was I, and ignorant; I was like a beast before You.