1. A banner's phantom gleamed from afar
As dawn's light filled our tent and awoke us there

2. The caravan marched on and night cast down its veils
Wandering amidst the kneeling camels as they stood

3. My heart was cleft and my torment relieved
Once the fires inside were quelled for good

4. Though in the dark I roamed, bereft of guide
With only hilltops and far meadows in my sight

5. How did you glimpse that banner, O my soul?
Beyond the barriers that impede my steps

6. Does it still stand atop the hut, or has it gone
To Najd, or spears, or Dhu Ruwa's abode,

7. The home of lovely houri maids, most fair
Of desert girls, so elegant and proud?

8. When they prepare to slay a chieftain bold
They bare their swords and raise the battle shout

9. They circle round the flag infatuated, thrilled with love
As pilgrims circle round the Sacred House

10. I entered and they rose in reverence for my rank
As handmaids rise before their lord and chief

11. On such a night was I consoled and cheered
By a slim-waisted beauty, fair of face and hair,

12. Rosy-cheeked, soft-skinned, plump and round
A slender form whose radiant cheeks outshone

13. Her necklaces and rings in graceful poise
When she arises she is gaily teased

14. By the necklaces that grapple for her throat
O banner mine, none other can compare

15. To you, except the Lord of Majesty Divine
For you I'll roam the wilderness, enthralled

16. And live a life consumed by this torment of mine
With just your phantom I'll find some content

17. As thirsty men are sated by the desert sand
When racks of thirst allow no satiety

18. Your mirage still nourishes this dream of mine