1. I have filled many pages with my praises,
With which falsehood has blackened the pages white.

2. And every eulogy in them was my reward
When I was free from the duties I held.

3. And that was only due to my ill-omened stars
That have clung to me through twists and turns.

4. So what can I do, and time has unsheathed its sword,
And incited all factions to war against me?

5. And every day I kindle the embers of turmoil
With a bold heart, fearless and unafraid.

6. And my soul refuses to flee from the encounter,
Even if I drink the cup of misery in trials.

7. And now with it in jihad are twenty-three
Years, and steadfastness is my ally.

8. And when it saw my will unbending,
And I do not bend from plunging into the sea of fears,

9. It smiled in anger and feigned its love,
And inwardly harbored hatred and opposed me.

10. And it vowed not to betray me and that
It would be faithful, while it is the most treacherous ally.

11. And how could it not, when I witnessed evidence
Of its betrayal with my own eyes, clear to every knowing person?

12. It laid snares for me until it traps me
And undermines my passions and knowledge.

13. But I do not fear it as long as my Creator
Protects me against it with kindnesses.