1. I saw among people their hope for benefit
From the stinginess of hands and corrupt gains

2. And most deserving of hope in every distress
Are the people of religion who wish for good consequences

3. They are the people - seeking their friendship does not benefit you
In the face of long nights and long clouds

4. Help for the thirsty, or suns of knowledge
Plateaus of sweetness, or stars of darkness

5. And in the bosom of honor among them
Are substitutes for jewelry, adornments and virtues

6. The remainder among those in books of religion and tradition
So witness him who has stepped in for every absent one

7. Who earned from my knowledge of book and tradition
Noble in effort in the right doctrines

8. And did not innovate in religion an innovation unlike him
Nor deviated on any false path from the truth, unwillingly

9. And I only said what has been imparted to me
By widely transmitted reports from trusted companions

10. And were it not for avoiding praise, I would go on at length
Praising his virtues - it is said by one who is no liar

11. If praising the pious is a virtue
Then praising Abu Ishaq is an utmost duty

12. I longed for him, so my page came to life
And many a letter substitutes for a scribe