1. I know not if it is a gift being passed around
Or a bride in her finery swaying to and fro

2. Or covenants that time has mocked
With the smile of flowers while still shedding tears

3. Or the whiteness of cheeks unfolding like pages
And the blackness of eyelids flowing like ink

4. Nay, it is an ode from a master who protected me
From the cravings of enemies, strengthening and supporting me

5. There diffused from the embers of his genius
A fire of poetry that surpassed all rivals

6. And what the maid of Sicily saw in him
Is true, so rightfully did Baghdad boast

7. Majid, excelling in acquiring virtues
And meanings, exhausting all glories

8. Surpassing the rank of composer of verse
Though, had he wished, he could have been greater

9. Verily time has wronged my eyes
Showing me him as a guiding star

10. I thanked the Desired One in the shade of His blessings
And attained my wishes from His grace

11. He continued removing adversities from me
Strengthening my powers and guiding me aright

12. Brandishing the sword of his resolve in the tribulations of my affairs
Not knowing rest or repose

13. O my pillar, though I was deprived of pillars
And beloved, though I forgot to love

14. He who fills time with flames
In the battles and trials of my life

15. Who can compare with you in knowledge, when
Merit and perfection are led by you?

16. So make excuses, for it is the product of a thought
That finds no rest or respite from firing up