And No One Loses His Manners

Peace, one and all…

Those given to Your love have no claims on life.
Having eyes for You only, they have long forgotten
themselves.
In the tavern where these single-minded ones drink
the whole wine cellar is emptied and no one
loses his manners
(Abu Sa`id ibn Abi al-Khayr)

Never Giving Up The Flame

Peace, one and all…

Happy is the heart that blames none and
complains not.
Like the candle, it burns, melting to the last drop,
never giving up the flame.
(Abu Sa`id ibn Abi al-Khayr)

By Your Decree

Peace, one and all…

You knew what I would be like
the day You created me.
I bring only my sins to You,
and this I do by Your decree.
(Abu Sa`id ibn Abi al-Khayr)

Be Human, While There Is Still Time

Peace, one and all…

When destruction appears in six directions,
when all is annihilated,
your love-tamed heart will be the measure of your
worth!
Work on your love, be human while there is still time.
On the day of reckoning only this will count
(Abu Sa`id ibn Abi al-Khayr)

While Rosaries Turned

Peace, one and all…

 

I passed through churches and synagogues
and found everyone speaking of You.
With Your love in my heart I entered the
idol-worshipper’s temple,
I heard Your Name whispered while rosaries turned
(Abu Sa`id ibn Abi al-Khayr)

Let Your Whole Being Burn Away

Peace, one and all…

One day, this self, and all dear to it,
will be blown around in dust and dirt.
While you still have a chance, offer all you have here,
at this purifying flame, and be cleansed.
Garments torn, heart on fire,
let your whole being burn away in this love.
(Abu Sa`id ibn Abi al-Khayr)

To See This Love Through

Peace, one and all…

My body and soul came together to seek You,
it is You that I live and die for.
I am here but a fortnight and then,
a handful of dust.
You are here to see this love through.
(Abu Sa`id ibn Abi al-Khayr)