1. If I were a neighbor of the Euphrates, pouring down
Rain from on high at dusk, gushing forth,

2. Would it not be wondrous how it redirects my waters
To a different channel, a twisting and winding course?

3. If this was by consent, then it was an act
Of obedience, like a tethered steed’s acquiescence.

4. If not, then I have two blades, both
Bold in my ornamented scabbard and in my mouth.

5. My greatest sin, in the eyes of he who has denied me
My rights, is my aspiration for your glory,

6. And that I never feigned affection or severed
My love in dire adversity and distress.

7. He wanted my sincerity to be disgraced, but
My wretchedness thwarted him despite the honored imam's nobility.

8. Apart from sincerity, true friendship and glorious
Candor and a heart exceedingly compassionate.

9. I ransom Zainab's vizier with his accoutrements,
Starting with the skulls adorning his necklace.

10. His camels humiliate them while their hearts
Hold animosity, though their tongues disguise it.

11. Generous with praise is he, of Adnan's line, cautious but
Bold in constant valor and grace.

12. A cloud with two wings flying within which are
The claws of a lion or the strike of a poisoned fang.

13. When he tastes secure life and one seeks refuge in him,
He rains freely with gifts and blood.

14. He overwhelms the insolent with resolve and prevails
Over a pillar of tranquility with his forbearance.

15. Through him the disgrace of the feeble is averted
And through him the aspirant attains the heights.

16. As if his demeanor in satisfaction and displeasure
Were an expert swordsman's nimble slashes and stabs.

17. So the dawn has not ceased to shine, nor has the
Spear of a protective neighbor or wealth vanished.