1. We stood with veils covering our faces,
And rose with swords unsheathed for battle.

2. She said, with tears flowing like pearls,
"Stop, stand still where you are!"

3. Reveal the secret you hid, proclaim what
You concealed, and go safely under God's protection.

4. That bride you shunned for a month
And nine years you wronged in captivity.

5. One night she brought us fresh milk,
Black as the night yet foaming white.

6. Her jewelry shone bright, and her scent
Awoke longing in those asleep.

7. My soul lusted for her, and I stood to oppose
Her after she turned away from the crowd.

8. I walked with her in the dark, both of us
Guarded, fearing gossip.

9. I took what I wanted from her though I did not
Intend to steal the garments of the hidden one.

10. I rose like a thief glimpsing those
Who crept in a sleeping people's coins.

11. If she becomes pregnant after me, the cause
Is mine, though I intended no wrong.

12. If she does not conceive, no matter, I cast
No seed, only lusting honorably.

13. Know my bride I betray her not
With any secret, though if she cheated I'd stay silent.

14. I was in a house not hers,
And tell I stood fiercely with swords drawn.

15. End my words with prayer for the one
Through whom my Lord was the final prophet.