1. How can existence, my people, describe the created
When its origin is annihilated?

2. Pure nonexistence, which from the start
Was ordained by a power ruling over it

3. Thus it is a matter predetermined anciently
Existence had no path unto it

4. Verily this has been stated in texts
In Scripture and Tradition of secure transmission

5. If this be the case, tell me
How can existence befit its description?

6. And that which is described by existence, what is it?
Where, O intellect, are you and verification?

7. So if the cosmos is called identical with existence
Not in terms of existence, noble and lofty,

8. I say: Existence in all things
Is one, all struck by it

9. As it is said to be a genus
To which they are led by sharing therein

10. But the difference between essences is clear
Other than existence, coursing freely

11. And if essences are existence
As are individual quiddities, gone are distinctions

12. And all become one, impossible!
That in reason has no certainty

13. So understand, O intellects, this discourse, realize
Grasp what you see, and awaken!