1. Tell Sulayma that separation has brought ruin,
And inform Sulayma that we are leaving tomorrow,

2. And say to her, how can she meet you while empty-handed?
For one who has been away is not as one who stayed.

3. We made a pledge to you and fulfilled our vow,
O most trustworthy of people when making a promise!

4. And the best of people in my eyes and the most beautiful,
Whether from the dweller of the cave or one who resides in Najd.

5. I swore an oath that was no lie,
With patience I will redouble it, O you who reside striving!

6. By God, I have not slept a sleep that would rest my eye,
Nor has my heart found peace after you all.

7. How much forbidden, even if we pretend to swear by it,
From a passionate lover who wishes we don't ever part!

8. He carries a grudge against us that obsesses him,
For his heart has become completely envious of us.

9. A love with passion for us she does not confess,
She counts the nights when we are absent for us in number.

10. She weeps for us when her people are unaware,
And she lines her eyes with tears for us while awake.

11. Eagerly trying to restrain her tears with great effort,
But neither does her tear flow nor freeze.

12. A fair, intimate companion, accustomed to chatting,
Who did not befriend empty talk and contrived manners.

13. She stood to bid me farewell in fear,
Like a broken-winged dove with ruffled feathers.

14. She had not reached the door when her women said,
Out of extreme shock, “This effort is too much, rest!”

15. They sat her down, and not one of noble lineage
Would sit Sulayma down when she has risen!

16. The last thing she said when seated
Was that she would show them patience and resilience.

17. O night of Saturday, you have burdened me with sickness,
To the point of death, and worries that have split open my liver!