Rumi 15

[Guest guest]

TO THE BELOVED

 

I haven't found joy in the two worlds apart from You,

Many wonders I've seen but never a marvel like You,

They say blazing hell fire is the unfaithful's share,

But I've seen none but Abu Lalab refused your grace!

 

Often I've laid my spiritual ear at the heart's door,

I heard much wise discourse but none from your lips.

Suddenly You lavished love upon your devoted servant,

I saw no reason, but your infinite, merciful grace.

 

Oh Cup Bearer of sacred wine, sweet apple of my eye,

The likes of You has never appeared in Persia or Arabia.

Pour out more wine `til I become a fugitive from old `me';

In false self and worldly existence I've found only fatigue.

 

Oh You who're like milk and honey, sun and moon,

Fond father and mother, I've known no kin but You .

Oh fountain of grace and unconditional, deathless love,

You're both my rock and my refuge, no Name equals Yours.

 

We're bits of iron and your love is a great magnet,

You're the source of all aspiration, not found in myself.

Silence! my brother, set aside your erudition and culture,

I know no culture but the Divine Almighty God, my Eternal Friend!

 

 

From some versifications of Rumi's Mathnawi.