1. I drew the companions' eyes to the distance,
As the night stretched its halls upon us.

2. How many drunk with the wine of battles,
I awakened with separation until they were alert.

3. I said to him who sought the heights arduous,
Send the envoys racing toward it.

4. Why hesitate to seek the heights?
Do you not yearn with the longing of she-camels?

5. Neither have your lids been lined with battles,
Nor have you turned aside to aught but the rugged.

6. Verily, to defy battles for the heights
Is sweeter than to yield to desire’s embrace.

7. So roll up your sleeves, for I see
Bearing disgrace is beyond all bearing.

8. For the bee’s harvest for its keeper
With dishonor, if you ponder, is bitter to taste.

9. This, while in you is a will rising
To the celestial spheres and up to the highest watchtower.

10. If you draw near to glory,
The full moon may return after waning.

11. And the freeman if he seeks great hopes,
Let him seek them atop the noble steeds.

12. And distinguished remoteness over others,
Having no wish for union after separation.

13. Thus were they when I roused them,
Like eggs I gingerly gathered.

14. And maidens agreed with me,
Who know love only as concord.