1. A tale that told of the Arab nation
Deeds not forgotten as days and eras pass

2. Achievements written in the scroll of glory
That if transcribed in gold would be truly classed

3. These were the men, the men of pride we mention
Whose fame forever lives in word and text

4. The people of excellence, in valor and generosity
And the masters of verse, words and address

5. How many places thrived where they stepped
And how long did their works thrive among foreigners and Arabs

6. We kept relating each rare incident of theirs
That was not devoid of the refinement or joy of man

7. Until their personages became clear to us and so
Every perplexing apprehension came to its relief

8. In a night where sleep found no refuge
Nor eyes in seeing, any rest

9. We saw the procession of those who passed
As if they were resurrected from the abode of dust

10. Then they vanished, and to God was their return, so nothing
Remained save His Auspicious Countenance behind the veils

11. By God, the sender of this cool morning breeze
Rightfully the excellence and refinement of man

12. His hand renewed what had grown old for us
And though grapes hold no such meaning as wine