1. I did not think myself a coward before when
I met at the riverside a lion in the night,

2. Like a traveler in its clutches, fully armed
With claws that tear flesh and bones apart.

3. When I heard its fierce growls, my soul recoiled
And said: where can you run and hide your fright?

4. I whipped its neck and said: have patience, wait,
And in the narrow spot I tightened my belt.

5. For you are less than Ziyad, depart from me,
Destroyer of light cavalry and warrior's heart!