1. Time softened to us though it was harsh,
And after skirmish, it became an ally,

2. The shadows of favors drew near and their
Fruits were picked easily for seekers.

3. Welcome to one whose meadow praises nurtured,
So we knew in his days the good deed.

4. His pity bent down to his visitors,
So he showed them sustenance after hardship.

5. With his arrival, generosity became verdant,
Rustling delicately over the destitute.

6. The land of the fortress became adorned with the moon
Who gifted the shining moon eclipses.

7. The emir composed for it necklaces of pearls
More noble than its twisted shells.

8. The Euphrates seemed humble next to his house,
Indistinguishable whether flowing or stagnant.

9. If it could head to it, it would never suffice
Until it’s seen diverted from its course.

10. If not for Abu Attāf, the dew would not be fresh
And time would not be gentle.

11. A king whom his enemy sees inclining
And his aid seeker accustomed.

12. When he frowns his glances contain only
A stern yet gentle life.

13. His dignity disdains to bar ferocity
Until it humiliates the arrogant and vain.

14. A lad, when kings crave to protect him
Becomes enamored with felling his foe.

15. When you conquered Ibn Marzūq, though he
Fled the deadly blows loftily.

16. The cowardice of his sword and blade showed him
The softness of the cradle and swords.

17. You finished him in battle until when
He yielded, you spared him desirously.

18. You collared him with favor when you ruled him
A heavy collar, yet easy on the neck.

19. The Daylamite was tempted by him
To deceit that earns blame and rebuke.

20. He came to you like a plotter hunting his prey
So he stirred the she-lions’ wrath.

21. Most deserving to fall prey to a wolf
Is one who dares to raid it brazenly.

22. You shackled his glances so you saw him
Drowsy by day as if night enveloped him.

23. You left him unable to discern his state
But a fleeting dream in slumber.

24. So too, he whose fire sparked in your land
Became extinguished by your fire.

25. Springtime Ribi’a is no match for you
Though she settled by you in spring and summer.

26. You made her a meadow for generosity
Smooth plain, a hillock for the noble.

27. So take heed - how many bastions you built
And razed an effete fortune and whim!

28. Don’t dress her in what suits you not
Except the most splendid of robes.

29. Her words flowed as if she brought
The springtime of beauties and autumn.

30. As if her eloquence makes one discern
The essence of her words or trace its hints.

31. If she conversed with Ibn Aws, he'd not say
"Their ruins robbed her words of fervor."