The Celestial Encounter

In a celestial encounter, a believer presents the Almighty with a unique gift: poetry extolling the Prophet’s greatness.

My soulful Tasbih,
Once narrated a tale

“Last night in a dream,
A question from Him came.

I was in the hereafter:
Away from the laughter.

I was asked a question,
Never before heard.

‘I answered your
Every plea,
From every evil,
I set you free.

I caged compassion
Amid your ribs,
My remembrance danced
On your lips.

Countless favors
I bestowed,
Although very little
You bowed.

Tell me, hey my slave,
What do you have?

What gift to give
Your Creator,
Didn’t I honor you
Than angels better?’

I answered without
The slightest doubt,
My heart with the reply
Did indeed attest.

‘Hey Merciful Lord
Of the worlds!
Listen to what my
Heart heralds:

‘I found nothing precious
Than this gem,
Who charmed me with
The Sultan of Arab and Ajam.

I bring You Jaihoon,
That son of Hind,
Who made my heart
With Your Beloved blind.’

Hey Tasbih!

I have read
Readers’ comments,
I have heard
Relatives’ sentiments.

My teachers praise,
Eloquent orators’ verse.

None embraced my message
As you.
None honored this sage
As you.

I raise my hands
In prayer,
My tearful words
Let Him hear:

“Ah!
You are a witness;
Over these words
You are a witness!”

Jul 13, 2005. Edit Jul 2024