1. I wronged him, yet he repaid me with kindness,
Though he could have punished me and claimed revenge.

2. He had ample cause for blame,
But he chose to act with forbearance.

3. So by his generosity I became his servant -
I admit this, though I was free.

4. When favors grow many from someone,
I acknowledge them, even if he does not.

5. So Khaled surprised people - he, a lad of ten -
Riding atop a revered old man.

6. The people saw a marvel in this boy
Lifted over an elder of dignity and age.

7. Amazed, the sheikh spoke: "Do not doubt God's power!
The elephant was subdued for a slight man to ride its back.

8. Excuse Khaled, do not rebuke him,
O people! His justification is clear to me.

9. I am an old man made to serve as his mount;
No creature escapes being used by the One who makes him serve.

10. I am to you as is Faris to Qahtan -
If I do not make you famed among men.

11. You are not one who found me first,
Nor are you more entitled to me than a black date is to its pit."