1. I saw Abu Zurarah one day
Say to his guard, sword in hand:

2. "If the tables are set and a man draws near,
I will sever your head without fear."

3. The guard replied "Except for your father -
That old man cannot be deterred by chatter."

4. Abu Zurarah rose in anger and said:
Verses to put the guard in dread:

5. "My father, my father's son and the dog as well,
Are equal to me when meals they do swell."

6. And he said "You, son of a dog, tell me true -
Shall I kill you or let you spew?"

7. When food is served I have no duty
To father or ties of family.

8. So there is none on earth more vile
Than a guard eyeing food in file.