The Beggar’s Treasure

The poet feels undeserving of a precious gift and expresses a desire for deeper faith and understanding.

What good have I done,
To deserve this dear one?
What should I in return say,
For this gem made of clay?

Even before I coin words of dhikr,
On the ground fall tears of shukr.

I now stand helplessly silent,
Content, with no complaint.

The beggar had asked
For a penny or two,
The Master gave him
A treasure full.

Sigh! You granted me
Such a ‘mercy,’
O Merciful Him!
Help me to be grateful.

I cannot believe
What my eyes saw,
I understand not
The ‘mercy’ You show.
Oh, my sweet Rabb!
I am with You
More than pleased,
You alone can
Have my pain eased.

Bring me closer
To Your Love,
Make me firm
On Your Beloved’s Law.

Every moment I secretly fear,
Deep in my mind,
Will my Rabb
His Justice over Mercy ascend?

Whom to seek refuge,
When You are in rage?

I am a wretched soul,
Leave me not in peril.

I feel blessed,
Very, very blessed.

So many tears of joy,
My soul wants to enjoy.

O Allah!
Count me not among those
Ungrateful for your favors.

Let my every drop
Express their thanks:
I may fall into
The pious ranks.

If you reveal not
The mystery of ‘mercy,’
At least open for me
The Gates of Gratitude.

Jan 16, 2004