1. God has decreed all that comes to pass
In His creation there is wisdom assured

2. And the servant is made to serve that which is willed of him
The action belongs to the servant but what befalls him is foreordained

3. With troubles come blessings that bring
Benefits drawn towards man though harm seemed at hand

4. So the noble one forgives when rage overtakes him
For lightning brings the blessed rain

5. The practice of prophet-kings is this:
Of people whatever they broke they would mend

6. They give though robbed, show grace though struck
Restrain their anger, pardon when they judge

7. Thus their reign endures father to son
While others grasp at a kingdom of sand

8. In pagan and Islamic days their crown remains
While others’ rule leaves no lasting trace

9. From them came John who accomplished what
Even saints failed at, none could match his innovations

10. He mended hearts and did good - ask him anything
You’ll find no excuse, no refusal on his part

11. Some matters breed goodness though their ends
Are obscure. For that unseen good I yearn

12. Let no heart you dwell in remain downcast
For long, anguished as the day draws to its close

13. You alone have virtue above all mankind
The rest are thorns, while you alone bear fruit

14. Through gracious favor none can comprehend
And no news or herald suffices to proclaim