1. O my friend, make clear to me your need
For eloquence comes with integrity

2. Speak one of two words:
Take a pledge from me, or undertake jihad against me

3. The miser loves his stinginess
And the generous hates delay after promising

4. You are rich even without wealth
While persistence comes from ambition

5. O friend, do not pursue vengeance
For it is the debt of the ignoble

6. The path branches into two
Choose between forgiving or punishing, there is no third option for the enemy

7. It is enough for you, no need for long worship
Or supplication from a caller

8. You included the need of a friend
So take the ways of righteousness in fulfilling it

9. Death is something easy
And death fulfills all promises

10. The truthfulness of a miser pleases me
And the lies of a generous upset me

11. I keep my promise whether close or far
And when asked, I fulfill it

12. Either with compliance or objection
Rest from toil is better than struggle

13. The brother of a miser is subdued
Like a mule, not to be reproached

14. O friend, make clear my need
And remember your guarantee on the day we meet again

15. There is no good in the life of an ignoble person
Or one who distances himself from affection

16. So profess your love to only one
Or be like an untamed horse

17. But how can souls refuse
To pursue their whims wherever they lead?

18. One's fate is envied
And frivolity comes from a cheerful heart

19. Women are fond of cheerfulness
And I see righteousness leading to corruption

20. So be patient with what you see unfolding
Fate cannot be warded off when hostile