1. Let it rest, for the spaciousness of the horizon has become too constricted for it,
And woe! For from its voices comes the melody of mourning.

2. And here are the banners of fever, so weep for an hour,
Perhaps the tears of the eyes will find an echo.

3. I stood by it, seeking tranquility, but lost it,
So I found nothing but anguish and tossing about.

4. Camels with proud steps that shame the full moons in their loftiness,
Litters that embarrass the branches in their swaying.

5. My might and their drawing near startles me,
By Allah! How near is the sanctuary and how far away!

6. I have lost my love for passion, were it not for it I would not
Have sold my creed through ignorance, nor chosen misguidance over guidance.

7. Nor would I be passionately inclined to a delicate, bending branch,
Or a wild doe with polished sides and neck.

8. Nor would a singing gazelle enchant me with her melodies
That make you forget the songs of the sandgrouse and oryx.

9. My heart fears her glance falling upon it,
As an unsheathed sword fears and when sheathed.

10. With her is a kohl that makes all others redundant,
For you will not see any but the blackness of night brought to perfection.

11. By Allah! The radiance of the gazelle’s face in the morning,
And the bending of the bow when drawn.

12. And the live coal that increases its coolness through the fire,
And the embers that blaze with the water of eternal life.

13. And if I were to complain of anything other than love or passion,
I would call upon the Almighty, All-Powerful Helper.