Sol 5.6

  1. The affair draws near when the moon splits asunder,

    for in the Tablet it is a decree inscribed in lines.

  2. Do not say, my master, that this,

    when the eye beholds it, is enduring sorcery.

  3. Had what I beheld not truly been so,

    no one would have desisted because of it or obeyed.

  4. The earth smiles and reveals her bounty

    when the clouds are generous with pouring rain,

  5. and the sun is generous to her with its light

    on the morning of a day of rain.

  6. And the land of love has turned green,

    revealing to all eyes what had lain veiled,

  7. and the air’s scent grows sweet from her perfumes.

    I asked the rain-stars, “What news is this?”

  8. I saw him open-faced and laughing—

    he who was once known for his glowering scowl.

  9. So give thanks, and redouble your thanks to Him, striving hard;

    beware the stratagem—for God has laid His plan.

  10. I warned him of the stratagem; he said, “Do not speak

    of what you have said, for warnings are no avail.”

  11. I said, “I know none but one who believes

    in that by which decree and destiny run their course.”

  12. He said, “Impossible, given what you know

    of me! Ever since I turned my back,

  13. guidance has turned from me, and his devil has goaded me.”

    I said, “Is there anyone who will take heed?”

  14. I said, “I.” He said, “I will not listen to

    what you said; truly I am in error and madness.”

  15. How far apart are one amid gardens and a river,

    in a seat of truth with an omnipotent King,

  16. and one who is lost, to whom it is said:

    “O ruined one, taste the touch of Saqar!”

  17. Then praise be to God, who granted humankind

    the praise of a deeply grateful, thankful one—the gratitude of gratitude.

Sol 5.6