Sol 5.6

  1. For a great man to be called diligent, the condition is

    that, in his case, the claim be confirmed by his deeds.

  2. Cloaked and enfolded in glory,

    his hand overflowing with gifts and largesse—

  3. a valiant Pole Star has raised his station high,

    the peerless, noble Tihamite his model.

  4. How often he has spent his night in prayerful vigil,

    imploring the One, the Most High, the Eternal Refuge,

  5. to grant him success forever

    in following the guidance of the Prophet Muhammad.

  6. May God sustain him with gladdening aid

    to do what is useful—what is most beneficial—

  7. in faith, in this world, and on the Promised Day.

    Truly, he is one who lays in provisions for the Hereafter;

  8. that preparation has clothed him, absent or before my eyes,

    in an awe that scatters the hearts of lions,

  9. and in character fragrant as a dew-fresh flower.

    His name upon people's lips is a sweet watering-place,

  10. as though it were pure water in a thirsty mouth.

    Knowledge and piety are his, and nobility of stock,

  11. and forbearance by nature, not laboriously acquired.

    For the crown of virtues is a master's forbearance.

  12. By my life, this is the true description of one rightly guided,

    whose deeds it is our duty to emulate,

  13. if one seeks the road to glory;

    then surely his lot—and he himself—will prosper.

  14. But as for one who does not follow the diligent man,

    though that man has been the finest guide for him,

  15. and often counsel has been tendered to him by him

    for his benefit, with not the least ulterior aim—

  16. he remains stubbornly defiant toward advice,

    his hand withheld by stinginess and parsimony.

  17. There is no difference between his palm and solid rock.

    I describe him with this wretched description:

  18. Recite it to him—yes, recite and recite:

    “Enough of my supporting those two vile ones—enough!”

Sol 5.6