The Incomplete Ode

Men and jinn have long tried, yet miserably failed, to do justice in describing the beauty of the Beloved, notes Mujeeb Jaihoon.

I have seen the smile of flowers,
And the charm of the moon.
And the rhythm of the rivers,
And the song of the seas.

I have seen her selfless love,
And her innocent beauty.
And her passionate heart,
And her loyal care.

I have seen my own rise,
From ashes till the skies.
Soaring in people’s minds,
Greeted by thousands.

But, hey Love of all my love!

Of what use,
My entire life?
Your face,
I haven’t seen if.

I have heard tales
Children have the chance
For the fortune,
In a dream shown.

Even Bu Jahl, in his curse-filled state,
Caught a glimpse of your moon-grace.
I am rather of your caravan,
Pursuing your steps I have ran.

You are the light,
A shadow’s my life.
You are the only sweet fruit,
Of this bitter-tree world

My one night’s sleep
Be worthier than the entire life:
If in my dream
For once you appear
More miraculous be I
Than ‘the Cave-Sleepers’

Even as I live among others
And when your love burns:
Thirst and hunger fade
Eclipsed by your love-shine

With what melody,
Did the Lord compose your note?
Tongues fatigue
Intellects faint
Pens dry
We men and jinn give up!
Yet,
Hey love of all my love!
Your praise remains incomplete!

Jan 28 2009. Edit Jan 2024