A slave in dire revolt am I: where is Thy will? Blackwith all sin my heart: where is Thy light and Thy control?If Thou giv'st Paradise to our obedience alone[to Thy laws], it is a debt of which Thou quit'stThyself and in such case we need Thy pity and benevolence.
A slave in dire revolt am I: where is Thy will? Blackwith all sin my heart: where is Thy light and Thy control?If Thou giv'st Paradise to our obedience alone[to Thy laws], it is a debt of which Thou quit'stThyself and in such case we need Thy pity and benevolence.
92.
I know not at all whether He who created me belongsto a delicious Paradise or a detestable Hell. [But I doknow] that a cup of wine, a charming girl and a zitherat the edge of a green field are three things which I enjoyat present, and that you will find them in the promisethat is made you of a future Paradise.
I know not at all whether He who created me belongsto a delicious Paradise or a detestable Hell. [But I doknow] that a cup of wine, a charming girl and a zitherat the edge of a green field are three things which I enjoyat present, and that you will find them in the promisethat is made you of a future Paradise.
93.
I drink wine, and those who are opposed to it comefrom the left and from the right to ask me to abstainfrom it, because, say they, wine is an enemy of religion.But, for that very reason I would drink it, now that Ihold myself an adversary of faith, because we are permittedby God to drink the blood of an enemy.
I drink wine, and those who are opposed to it comefrom the left and from the right to ask me to abstainfrom it, because, say they, wine is an enemy of religion.But, for that very reason I would drink it, now that Ihold myself an adversary of faith, because we are permittedby God to drink the blood of an enemy.
94.
The light of the moon has cut the black robe of night:drink then of wine, for one finds not often moments soprecious. Yes, abandon thyself to joy, for this samemoon will shine over the surface of the earth a long time[after our day].
The light of the moon has cut the black robe of night:drink then of wine, for one finds not often moments soprecious. Yes, abandon thyself to joy, for this samemoon will shine over the surface of the earth a long time[after our day].
95.
Impute not to the wheel of the heavens all the goodand all the bad which are in man, all the joys and sorrowswhich come to us by destiny; for this wheel, friend, isa thousand times more embarrassed than thou, in the pathof love [divine].
Impute not to the wheel of the heavens all the goodand all the bad which are in man, all the joys and sorrowswhich come to us by destiny; for this wheel, friend, isa thousand times more embarrassed than thou, in the pathof love [divine].
96.
There is no shield which is proof against an arrowhurled by Destiny. Grandeur, money, gold all go fornothing. The more I consider the things of this world,the more I see that the only good is good, all else isnothing.
There is no shield which is proof against an arrowhurled by Destiny. Grandeur, money, gold all go fornothing. The more I consider the things of this world,the more I see that the only good is good, all else isnothing.
97.
A heart which does not contain in itself complete abstinence[from things here below] is to be pitied, for it isat all times the prey of regret. It is only the heart freefrom care that can be joyous; all that exists beyond thisis but a subject of torment.
A heart which does not contain in itself complete abstinence[from things here below] is to be pitied, for it isat all times the prey of regret. It is only the heart freefrom care that can be joyous; all that exists beyond thisis but a subject of torment.
98.
He who has had the intelligence to sow joy in hisheart has not lost a single day in sorrow; he has employedhis faculties in seeking the will of God, or has procuredrepose for his soul by taking a cup of wine.
He who has had the intelligence to sow joy in hisheart has not lost a single day in sorrow; he has employedhis faculties in seeking the will of God, or has procuredrepose for his soul by taking a cup of wine.
99.
When God fashioned the clay of my body, he knewwhat would be the result of my acts. It is not withoutHis orders that I have committed the sins of which I amguilty; in that case, why should I burn in hell-fire atthe last day?
When God fashioned the clay of my body, he knewwhat would be the result of my acts. It is not withoutHis orders that I have committed the sins of which I amguilty; in that case, why should I burn in hell-fire atthe last day?
100.
If thou hast drunk wine every consecutive day of theweek, take care not to deprive thyself of it on Wednesday,for, according to our religion, there is no differencebetween this day and Saturday. Be an adorer of the All-Powerfuland not an adorer of days.
If thou hast drunk wine every consecutive day of theweek, take care not to deprive thyself of it on Wednesday,for, according to our religion, there is no differencebetween this day and Saturday. Be an adorer of the All-Powerfuland not an adorer of days.
101.
O my God! Thou art merciful, and mercy is kindness.Why then has the first sinner been thrown out ofthe terrestrial Paradise? If Thou pardonest me whenI obey Thee, it is not mercy. Mercy is present onlywhen Thou pardonest me as the sinner that I am.
O my God! Thou art merciful, and mercy is kindness.Why then has the first sinner been thrown out ofthe terrestrial Paradise? If Thou pardonest me whenI obey Thee, it is not mercy. Mercy is present onlywhen Thou pardonest me as the sinner that I am.
102.
Leave knowledge and take the cup in thy hand. Disturbthyself not about Paradise or Hell, but seek rathertheKoocer[the celestial river of wine]. Sell thy silkenturban to buy wine and have no more fear. Rid thyselfof that head-dress and envelop thy head in a simple woolenband [emblem of Sufism].
Leave knowledge and take the cup in thy hand. Disturbthyself not about Paradise or Hell, but seek rathertheKoocer[the celestial river of wine]. Sell thy silkenturban to buy wine and have no more fear. Rid thyselfof that head-dress and envelop thy head in a simple woolenband [emblem of Sufism].
103.
Tell me, friend, have I acquired riches in this world?No. Have I given myself up to time as it was slippingaway? No. I am the torch of joy; but that torch onceextinguished, I am nothing. I am the cup of Djem [theroyal cup], but that cup once broken, I am no longeranything.
Tell me, friend, have I acquired riches in this world?No. Have I given myself up to time as it was slippingaway? No. I am the torch of joy; but that torch onceextinguished, I am nothing. I am the cup of Djem [theroyal cup], but that cup once broken, I am no longeranything.
104.
Where are the dancers? Where is the wine? Quick!that I may do honor to the gourd! Happy the heartwho remembers his morning cup! Oh! there are threethings in this world which are dear to me: a head lost inwine, an amorous girl, and the noise of the dawn.
Where are the dancers? Where is the wine? Quick!that I may do honor to the gourd! Happy the heartwho remembers his morning cup! Oh! there are threethings in this world which are dear to me: a head lost inwine, an amorous girl, and the noise of the dawn.
105.
Since life so soon slips away, what matters it whetherit be sweet or bitter? Since the soul must pass throughthe lips, what matters whether it be at Nishapur or atBalkh? Drink then of wine, for after thee and me, themoon will long pass on from its last quarter to its first,and from the first to last.
Since life so soon slips away, what matters it whetherit be sweet or bitter? Since the soul must pass throughthe lips, what matters whether it be at Nishapur or atBalkh? Drink then of wine, for after thee and me, themoon will long pass on from its last quarter to its first,and from the first to last.
106.
This caravan of life passes in curious guise! Be on thyguard, my friend, for it is joy that thus escapes! Disturbnot thyself with the sorrow which to-morrow waitsour friends, and bring me my cup quickly, for the nightfast slips away!
This caravan of life passes in curious guise! Be on thyguard, my friend, for it is joy that thus escapes! Disturbnot thyself with the sorrow which to-morrow waitsour friends, and bring me my cup quickly, for the nightfast slips away!
107.
He who has made the foundations of the world, thewheel of the heavens, how He has crucified the heart ofman with affliction! How many ruby-colored lips has Heburied in this little globe of earth! How many locks ofhair perfumed with musk has He hidden in the bosom ofthe dust!
He who has made the foundations of the world, thewheel of the heavens, how He has crucified the heart ofman with affliction! How many ruby-colored lips has Heburied in this little globe of earth! How many locks ofhair perfumed with musk has He hidden in the bosom ofthe dust!
108.
O careless men! be not duped by this world, sinceyou know its pursuits. Throw not to the wind yourprecious lives; hasten to seek a friend [God], and quicklydrink of wine.
O careless men! be not duped by this world, sinceyou know its pursuits. Throw not to the wind yourprecious lives; hasten to seek a friend [God], and quicklydrink of wine.
109.
O my companions! pour me some wine and thuschange my face, from yellow as amber, to the color ofthe ruby. When I am dead, lave me in wine, and ofthe wood of the vine make my coffin and bier.
O my companions! pour me some wine and thuschange my face, from yellow as amber, to the color ofthe ruby. When I am dead, lave me in wine, and ofthe wood of the vine make my coffin and bier.
110.
The day when the celestial war-horse of the goldenstars was saddled, when the planet Jupiter and thePleiades were created, from that day the Divan [ChiefJustice] of destiny fixed our lot. In what respect, then,are we guilty, since such is the part that was madefor us?
The day when the celestial war-horse of the goldenstars was saddled, when the planet Jupiter and thePleiades were created, from that day the Divan [ChiefJustice] of destiny fixed our lot. In what respect, then,are we guilty, since such is the part that was madefor us?
111.
Oh! what damage may the vessels filled to flowing do,and how incomplete are they who possess riches! Theeyes of beautiful Turkish women are a feast to the heart,yet they are simple learners from the slaves who ownthem.
Oh! what damage may the vessels filled to flowing do,and how incomplete are they who possess riches! Theeyes of beautiful Turkish women are a feast to the heart,yet they are simple learners from the slaves who ownthem.
112.
It is necessary that our existence be effaced from thebook of life, that we expire in the arms of death. Ocharming cupbearer, go, gaily bring me wine since mypoor earth to earth must come.
It is necessary that our existence be effaced from thebook of life, that we expire in the arms of death. Ocharming cupbearer, go, gaily bring me wine since mypoor earth to earth must come.
113.
At this moment, when my heart is not yet deprived oflife, it seems to me that there are few problems that Ihave not solved. However, when I call intelligence tomy aid, when I examine myself with care, I perceivethat my existence has slipped away and that I have stilldefined nothing.
At this moment, when my heart is not yet deprived oflife, it seems to me that there are few problems that Ihave not solved. However, when I call intelligence tomy aid, when I examine myself with care, I perceivethat my existence has slipped away and that I have stilldefined nothing.
114.
Those who adore theseddjadeh[prayer-rug] are asses,since they throw themselves, with full consent, into thecharge of devotees and hypocrites. What is most singularabout them is that they, under a mantle of piety,preach Islamism and are, in reality, worse than idolaters.
Those who adore theseddjadeh[prayer-rug] are asses,since they throw themselves, with full consent, into thecharge of devotees and hypocrites. What is most singularabout them is that they, under a mantle of piety,preach Islamism and are, in reality, worse than idolaters.
115.
When the tree of my existence shall be cut down, whenmy members shall be dispersed, let them make pitchersof my dust and fill these pitchers with wine; then shallmy dust be revived [through the wine contained inthem].
When the tree of my existence shall be cut down, whenmy members shall be dispersed, let them make pitchersof my dust and fill these pitchers with wine; then shallmy dust be revived [through the wine contained inthem].
116.
O Thou, God, before whom sin is without consequence,tell him who possesses intelligence to proclaim this importantpoint: that in the eyes of a philosopher it is anabsolute absurdity to make divine fore-knowledge in leaguewith sin.
O Thou, God, before whom sin is without consequence,tell him who possesses intelligence to proclaim this importantpoint: that in the eyes of a philosopher it is anabsolute absurdity to make divine fore-knowledge in leaguewith sin.
117.
In the first place, my being was given me without myconsent, which makes my own existence a lasting problemto me. Then, we leave this world with regret, and withouthaving accomplished the aim of our coming, of ourstay, or our departure.
In the first place, my being was given me without myconsent, which makes my own existence a lasting problemto me. Then, we leave this world with regret, and withouthaving accomplished the aim of our coming, of ourstay, or our departure.
118.
When my sins come back to mind, the fire which thenburned in my heart makes my boldness stream forth;for everywhere is it established that when a slave repents,a generous master pardons him.
When my sins come back to mind, the fire which thenburned in my heart makes my boldness stream forth;for everywhere is it established that when a slave repents,a generous master pardons him.
119.
These potters who constantly plunge their fingers intothe clay, who employ all their mind, all their intelligence,all their faculties to mould it, even to the crushing ofit with their feet and striking with their hands, of whatthink they? It is the same clay as the human body thatthey are treating thus.
These potters who constantly plunge their fingers intothe clay, who employ all their mind, all their intelligence,all their faculties to mould it, even to the crushing ofit with their feet and striking with their hands, of whatthink they? It is the same clay as the human body thatthey are treating thus.
120.
Those who, through knowledge, are the cream of theworld; who, with intelligence scan the heights of theheavens, they also, like the firmament, have their headsturned in their search for divine knowledge, and aretaken with vertigo and dimness of sight.
Those who, through knowledge, are the cream of theworld; who, with intelligence scan the heights of theheavens, they also, like the firmament, have their headsturned in their search for divine knowledge, and aretaken with vertigo and dimness of sight.
121.
God has promised us wine in Paradise. In that casewhy should He prohibit it in this world? One day anArab in a state of drunkenness cut the hams of Hamzah'scamel with his sword. It is only for him that ourProphet makes wine illicit.
God has promised us wine in Paradise. In that casewhy should He prohibit it in this world? One day anArab in a state of drunkenness cut the hams of Hamzah'scamel with his sword. It is only for him that ourProphet makes wine illicit.
122.
Since at this moment there only remains to you thememory of pleasure passed away; since for a perfect friendyou have only a cup of wine; finally, since that is all youown, rejoice at least in this possession and let the cupnot slip from your hands.
Since at this moment there only remains to you thememory of pleasure passed away; since for a perfect friendyou have only a cup of wine; finally, since that is all youown, rejoice at least in this possession and let the cupnot slip from your hands.
123.
Oh! for the time when we shall be no more and theworld shall still be here! There will remain no fame ortrace of us. The world was not unfinished when wecame; naught will be changed when we have gonefrom it.
Oh! for the time when we shall be no more and theworld shall still be here! There will remain no fame ortrace of us. The world was not unfinished when wecame; naught will be changed when we have gonefrom it.
124.
Those whose feet have trodden the world, who haverun over it for the sake of appropriating the riches ofthe two hemispheres to themselves, they are not theones, I believe, who have ever been able to explain thetrue state, the real situation of things here below.
Those whose feet have trodden the world, who haverun over it for the sake of appropriating the riches ofthe two hemispheres to themselves, they are not theones, I believe, who have ever been able to explain thetrue state, the real situation of things here below.
125.
O regret! The capital [of life] has slipped from ourhands. Alas! many hearts have been through deathdrowned in blood, and no one returns from the otherworld that I may ask him news of the travelers whohave gone.
O regret! The capital [of life] has slipped from ourhands. Alas! many hearts have been through deathdrowned in blood, and no one returns from the otherworld that I may ask him news of the travelers whohave gone.
126.
These numerous great lords, so proud of their titles,are so gnawed by cares and sorrows that existence tothem is a burden. And most ridiculous it is that theydeign not to call by the name of men those who, unlike tothem, are not slaves to their passions.
These numerous great lords, so proud of their titles,are so gnawed by cares and sorrows that existence tothem is a burden. And most ridiculous it is that theydeign not to call by the name of men those who, unlike tothem, are not slaves to their passions.
127.
This lofty Wheel, whose trade it is to tyrannize, hasnever loosed for man the knot of any difficulty. Whereverit has seen an ulcerated heart, there has it come to addwound unto wound.
This lofty Wheel, whose trade it is to tyrannize, hasnever loosed for man the knot of any difficulty. Whereverit has seen an ulcerated heart, there has it come to addwound unto wound.
128.
Alas! the period of adolescence reaches home. Thespringtime of our pleasures slips away! That bird ofgaiety which is calledyouth, alas! I know not when itcame nor when it flew away!
Alas! the period of adolescence reaches home. Thespringtime of our pleasures slips away! That bird ofgaiety which is calledyouth, alas! I know not when itcame nor when it flew away!
129.
In the midst of this whirlpool of the world, hasten togather some fruit. Seat thyself upon the throne of gaietyand bring the cup to thy lips. God is indifferent bothto creed and sin; enjoy then here below, what pleasesthee.
In the midst of this whirlpool of the world, hasten togather some fruit. Seat thyself upon the throne of gaietyand bring the cup to thy lips. God is indifferent bothto creed and sin; enjoy then here below, what pleasesthee.
130.
Do you see those two or three imbeciles who hold theworld in their hands, and who, in their candid ignorance,believe themselves the wisest in the universe? Do notdisturb yourself for, in their high content, they deemall heretics who are not asses [like themselves].
Do you see those two or three imbeciles who hold theworld in their hands, and who, in their candid ignorance,believe themselves the wisest in the universe? Do notdisturb yourself for, in their high content, they deemall heretics who are not asses [like themselves].
131.
Would that the tavern could always be animated bythe presence of drinkers, that fire would reach the hemof the holy robe of devotees, that their monk's frock mightbe torn to tatters and their blue woolen garment be trampledunder the feet of the drinkers.
Would that the tavern could always be animated bythe presence of drinkers, that fire would reach the hemof the holy robe of devotees, that their monk's frock mightbe torn to tatters and their blue woolen garment be trampledunder the feet of the drinkers.
132.
How long wilt thou be a dupe to colors and perfumes?When wilt thou cease to seek out good and bad?Thou mightest be the source of Zemzem, thou mightesteven be the water of life since thou wouldst not know howto escape entering the bosom of the earth.
How long wilt thou be a dupe to colors and perfumes?When wilt thou cease to seek out good and bad?Thou mightest be the source of Zemzem, thou mightesteven be the water of life since thou wouldst not know howto escape entering the bosom of the earth.
133.
Renounce not the drinking of wine if you have any,for a hundred repentances follow one such resolution.The roses scatter their blossoms, the nightingales fill theair with their song, and would it be reasonable to renouncedrinking in a moment like this?
Renounce not the drinking of wine if you have any,for a hundred repentances follow one such resolution.The roses scatter their blossoms, the nightingales fill theair with their song, and would it be reasonable to renouncedrinking in a moment like this?
134.
As long as the friend [God] will pour for me the winewhich rejoices my soul, as long as the heavens havenot deposited a hundred kisses upon my head and feet,whatever they may do, when the moment comes, to induceme to renounce drinking, how can I renounce it,God not having ordered me to?
As long as the friend [God] will pour for me the winewhich rejoices my soul, as long as the heavens havenot deposited a hundred kisses upon my head and feet,whatever they may do, when the moment comes, to induceme to renounce drinking, how can I renounce it,God not having ordered me to?
135.
Whoever has constancy will not renounce drinking wine,for wine has within itself the virtue of the water of life.If any one renounce it during the month of Ramazan, lethim at least abstain from engagement in prayer.
Whoever has constancy will not renounce drinking wine,for wine has within itself the virtue of the water of life.If any one renounce it during the month of Ramazan, lethim at least abstain from engagement in prayer.
136.
When I am dead, smooth to the level of the soil thedust of my tomb, that I may thus be an example to othermen. Then, mix with wine the earth of my body andmake of it—a cover for a wine-jar.
When I am dead, smooth to the level of the soil thedust of my tomb, that I may thus be an example to othermen. Then, mix with wine the earth of my body andmake of it—a cover for a wine-jar.
137.
O Khayyam! although the Wheel of the Heavens has,in setting up his tent, closed the door to discussions, [itis evident, nevertheless,] that the cupbearer of eternity[God] has produced, in the form of globules of wine inthe cup of creation, a thousand other Khayyams likethee.
O Khayyam! although the Wheel of the Heavens has,in setting up his tent, closed the door to discussions, [itis evident, nevertheless,] that the cupbearer of eternity[God] has produced, in the form of globules of wine inthe cup of creation, a thousand other Khayyams likethee.
138.
Give thyself to gaiety, for sorrow will be infinite. Thestars will continue movement in the firmament, and thebricks which will be made of thy body will serve to constructpalaces for others.
Give thyself to gaiety, for sorrow will be infinite. Thestars will continue movement in the firmament, and thebricks which will be made of thy body will serve to constructpalaces for others.
139.
Pass joyously thy life, for many other travelers will filethrough this world; the soul will cry after the body fromwhich it will be separated, and the head, the seat ofthe passions, will be trampled under the potter's feet.
Pass joyously thy life, for many other travelers will filethrough this world; the soul will cry after the body fromwhich it will be separated, and the head, the seat ofthe passions, will be trampled under the potter's feet.
140.
Happy the heart of him who has passed unknown,who has not been clothed in a robe of ceremony, nor inluxurious garments, nor in stuffs of great price, who,like thesimourg, is lifted into the skies to the place ofhis delight as the owl sits among the ruins of this world.
Happy the heart of him who has passed unknown,who has not been clothed in a robe of ceremony, nor inluxurious garments, nor in stuffs of great price, who,like thesimourg, is lifted into the skies to the place ofhis delight as the owl sits among the ruins of this world.
141.
Drinkers alone know how to appreciate the languageof the roses and of wine, and not the feeble in heart orthe poor in spirit. Those who have no idea of what isoccult, to them ignorance is pardonable, for drunkardsalone can understand what belongs to such an order ofof things.
Drinkers alone know how to appreciate the languageof the roses and of wine, and not the feeble in heart orthe poor in spirit. Those who have no idea of what isoccult, to them ignorance is pardonable, for drunkardsalone can understand what belongs to such an order ofof things.
142.
Once in the tavern, one can make his ablutions onlywith wine. There, when a name is soiled, it cannot berestored. Bring, then, some wine, since the veil of ourshame is torn in such a manner that it cannot be repaired.
Once in the tavern, one can make his ablutions onlywith wine. There, when a name is soiled, it cannot berestored. Bring, then, some wine, since the veil of ourshame is torn in such a manner that it cannot be repaired.
143.
Pierced with a vain hope, I have thrown to the winda part of my existence, and that without having knownhere below a day of happiness. That which I fear nowis that time will prevent me from seizing the opportunityto make amends for the past.
Pierced with a vain hope, I have thrown to the winda part of my existence, and that without having knownhere below a day of happiness. That which I fear nowis that time will prevent me from seizing the opportunityto make amends for the past.
144.
Alas! my heart has not been able to find any remedy[for its grief], my soul has arrived at the edge of mylips [death], without having attained the object of its love.Alas! my life has passed in ignorance, and the enigmaof this love has not been explained.
Alas! my heart has not been able to find any remedy[for its grief], my soul has arrived at the edge of mylips [death], without having attained the object of its love.Alas! my life has passed in ignorance, and the enigmaof this love has not been explained.
145.
In the regions of the soul, it is necessary to walk withdiscernment; upon the things of this world, it is well tobe silent. While we have our eyes, our tongues, and ourears, we should be without eyes, without tongues, andwithout ears.
In the regions of the soul, it is necessary to walk withdiscernment; upon the things of this world, it is well tobe silent. While we have our eyes, our tongues, and ourears, we should be without eyes, without tongues, andwithout ears.
146.
In this world, he who commands a loaf of bread andwho can cover his body with any garment whatsoever,he who is neither master nor servant, tell him to livecontent, for he has a sweet existence.
In this world, he who commands a loaf of bread andwho can cover his body with any garment whatsoever,he who is neither master nor servant, tell him to livecontent, for he has a sweet existence.
147.
One should not plant in his heart the tree of sadness.On the contrary, he should ever peruse the book of joy.One should drink wine, and follow the trend of his ownheart, for behold, the length of time remaining to you inthis world is quickly measured.
One should not plant in his heart the tree of sadness.On the contrary, he should ever peruse the book of joy.One should drink wine, and follow the trend of his ownheart, for behold, the length of time remaining to you inthis world is quickly measured.
148.
Has Thy empire gained in splendor by my obeisance,O God? Or have my sins retrenched in any degree Thyimmensity? Pardon, O God, and do not punish, for Iknow well that Thou punishest late and pardonest early.
Has Thy empire gained in splendor by my obeisance,O God? Or have my sins retrenched in any degree Thyimmensity? Pardon, O God, and do not punish, for Iknow well that Thou punishest late and pardonest early.
149.
It would be troublesome if my hand, accustomed toseize the cup, took the Koran and depended upon Mohammedandiet. With you it is different; you are a drydevotee, while I am a depraved one, moist [through drink],and the only fire I know is kindled by wine.
It would be troublesome if my hand, accustomed toseize the cup, took the Koran and depended upon Mohammedandiet. With you it is different; you are a drydevotee, while I am a depraved one, moist [through drink],and the only fire I know is kindled by wine.
150.
Upon earth, no one presses to his heart a charmer withcheeks of the tints of a rose without the time comesthat he feels the sting of the thorn. See the comb: beforeit could caress the perfumed hair of the beauty, ithad to be cut into many teeth.
Upon earth, no one presses to his heart a charmer withcheeks of the tints of a rose without the time comesthat he feels the sting of the thorn. See the comb: beforeit could caress the perfumed hair of the beauty, ithad to be cut into many teeth.
151.
Would that I had constantly in my hand the juice ofthe vine! Would that my love for these beautiful idols,that are like houris, might never leave my heart! Theysay to me: God has ordered you to renounce these things.Oh! should He give me such a command, I would notobey it. Far be the thought!
Would that I had constantly in my hand the juice ofthe vine! Would that my love for these beautiful idols,that are like houris, might never leave my heart! Theysay to me: God has ordered you to renounce these things.Oh! should He give me such a command, I would notobey it. Far be the thought!
152.
Behold, I must go, and life is saddened by my going; for,out of a hundred precious pearls but one have I pierced.Alas! thanks to the ignorance of men, a hundred thousandthings of deepest import yet remain unheard.
Behold, I must go, and life is saddened by my going; for,out of a hundred precious pearls but one have I pierced.Alas! thanks to the ignorance of men, a hundred thousandthings of deepest import yet remain unheard.
153.
To-day the season smiles; 'tis neither hot nor cold. Theclouds have washed away the dust which dimmed theroses; and nightingales seem whispering to the yellowflowers that wine is balm for all.
To-day the season smiles; 'tis neither hot nor cold. Theclouds have washed away the dust which dimmed theroses; and nightingales seem whispering to the yellowflowers that wine is balm for all.
154.
The day when I shall know myself no more, and whenthey will speak of me as of a fable, then I desire [doI dare say it?] that my clay be made into a jar for wineand destined to service at the tavern.
The day when I shall know myself no more, and whenthey will speak of me as of a fable, then I desire [doI dare say it?] that my clay be made into a jar for wineand destined to service at the tavern.
155.
Drink thou of wine before thy name shall vanish fromthis world, for, when this nectar enters thy heart, sorrowdisappears. Unbind strand by strand the hair of thycharming idol, before the jointure of thy frame itself isloosed.
Drink thou of wine before thy name shall vanish fromthis world, for, when this nectar enters thy heart, sorrowdisappears. Unbind strand by strand the hair of thycharming idol, before the jointure of thy frame itself isloosed.
156.
O idol! ere sorrow comes to assail thee, order rose-coloredwine. Thou art not gold, O imbecile! to believethat after burial in the earth, you can be drawn from itagain.
O idol! ere sorrow comes to assail thee, order rose-coloredwine. Thou art not gold, O imbecile! to believethat after burial in the earth, you can be drawn from itagain.
157.
This world has not derived any advantage from mycoming here below. Its glory and its dignity are equallyunaffected by my departure. My two ears have neverheard any one say why I have come, or why I am forcedto go again.
This world has not derived any advantage from mycoming here below. Its glory and its dignity are equallyunaffected by my departure. My two ears have neverheard any one say why I have come, or why I am forcedto go again.
158.
All thy secrets are known to the wisdom of Heaven[God]· He knows them hair by hair and vein by vein.I admit that by power of hypocrisy you may be ableto deceive men, but what will you do before Him whoknows your misdeeds one by one in every detail?
All thy secrets are known to the wisdom of Heaven[God]· He knows them hair by hair and vein by vein.I admit that by power of hypocrisy you may be ableto deceive men, but what will you do before Him whoknows your misdeeds one by one in every detail?
159.
Wine gives wings to those attacked by melancholy;wine is a mole of beauty upon the cheek of intelligence,we have not drunk of it during the Ramazan whichhas passed, but now the eve of [the month of] Burakhath arrived and we shall make amends.
Wine gives wings to those attacked by melancholy;wine is a mole of beauty upon the cheek of intelligence,we have not drunk of it during the Ramazan whichhas passed, but now the eve of [the month of] Burakhath arrived and we shall make amends.
160.
Live in joy, for the time is coming when all the creaturesthat you see will disappear under the earth; drink,drink of wine, and never abandon yourself to the sorrowof this world. Those who come after you only too soonbecome a prey to it.
Live in joy, for the time is coming when all the creaturesthat you see will disappear under the earth; drink,drink of wine, and never abandon yourself to the sorrowof this world. Those who come after you only too soonbecome a prey to it.
161.
There is not a night when my mind is not in a state ofstupefaction. There is not one when my breast is notinundated with pearls that flow from my eyes. The disquietwhich possesses me keeps the bowl of my head fromfilling itself with wine, can a bowl overturned ever befilled?
There is not a night when my mind is not in a state ofstupefaction. There is not one when my breast is notinundated with pearls that flow from my eyes. The disquietwhich possesses me keeps the bowl of my head fromfilling itself with wine, can a bowl overturned ever befilled?
162.
When my nature has seemed disposed to fasting andprayer, I have a moment's hope that I am going to attainthe aim of my desires; but alas! a breath of wind hassufficed to destroy the efficacy of my ablutions, and amouthful of wine has annihilated my fast.
When my nature has seemed disposed to fasting andprayer, I have a moment's hope that I am going to attainthe aim of my desires; but alas! a breath of wind hassufficed to destroy the efficacy of my ablutions, and amouthful of wine has annihilated my fast.
163.
All my being is attracted by the sight of beautiful,rose-colored faces; my hand is aye ready to seize a cupof wine. Oh, I wish to enjoy for its part what belongsto each of my members, ere these same members arelost in the Whole.
All my being is attracted by the sight of beautiful,rose-colored faces; my hand is aye ready to seize a cupof wine. Oh, I wish to enjoy for its part what belongsto each of my members, ere these same members arelost in the Whole.
164.
A worldly love knows not how to produce reflection.It is like a fire half extinguished which no longer givesheat. A true love should know neither tranquillity, norrepose, nor nourishment, nor sleep for months and years,day nor night.
A worldly love knows not how to produce reflection.It is like a fire half extinguished which no longer givesheat. A true love should know neither tranquillity, norrepose, nor nourishment, nor sleep for months and years,day nor night.
165.
How long wilt thou pass thy life in adoring thyself, andseeking the cause of annihilation of thy being? Drinkwine, for a life that is followed by death is better spentin sleep or drunkenness.
How long wilt thou pass thy life in adoring thyself, andseeking the cause of annihilation of thy being? Drinkwine, for a life that is followed by death is better spentin sleep or drunkenness.
166.
To-morrow I shall have surmounted the mountainwhich separates us, and with indescribable happinesstake the cup in my hand. My mistress longs for me,the day is bright; if I do not hasten to enjoy myselfin such a moment, when shall I find enjoyment?
To-morrow I shall have surmounted the mountainwhich separates us, and with indescribable happinesstake the cup in my hand. My mistress longs for me,the day is bright; if I do not hasten to enjoy myselfin such a moment, when shall I find enjoyment?
167.
There are people who through outrageous presumptionare sunk in pride; and others who abandon themselvesto the houris of celestial palaces. When the curtain israised, we shall see that they have fallen far, far, far,from Thee [O God]!
There are people who through outrageous presumptionare sunk in pride; and others who abandon themselvesto the houris of celestial palaces. When the curtain israised, we shall see that they have fallen far, far, far,from Thee [O God]!
168.
We are assured that there is a Paradise for us peopledwith houris, and that we shall find there limpid wine andhoney. It must then be permitted us to love women andwine here below, for is not this our end and aim?
We are assured that there is a Paradise for us peopledwith houris, and that we shall find there limpid wine andhoney. It must then be permitted us to love women andwine here below, for is not this our end and aim?
169.
They pretend that there exists a Paradise where thereare houris, where theKoocerflows, where there is limpidwine, honey and sugar. Oh! fill quickly a cup of wineand put it in my hand, for one present joy is worth morethan a thousand promised for the future.
They pretend that there exists a Paradise where thereare houris, where theKoocerflows, where there is limpidwine, honey and sugar. Oh! fill quickly a cup of wineand put it in my hand, for one present joy is worth morethan a thousand promised for the future.
170.
Even a mountain would dance for joy if you soaked itin wine. Poor is the fool who scorns the cup. You dareorder me to renounce the juice of the vine! Know thenthat wine is a soul which helps to bring man to perfection.
Even a mountain would dance for joy if you soaked itin wine. Poor is the fool who scorns the cup. You dareorder me to renounce the juice of the vine! Know thenthat wine is a soul which helps to bring man to perfection.
171.
From time to time my heart finds itself much straitenedin its cage. Shameful is it to be mixed with waterand clay. I have often thought of destroying this prison,but my foot would come in contact with a stone and slipon the stirrup of the Koran's law.
From time to time my heart finds itself much straitenedin its cage. Shameful is it to be mixed with waterand clay. I have often thought of destroying this prison,but my foot would come in contact with a stone and slipon the stirrup of the Koran's law.
172.
They say that the moon of Ramazan [month of fasting]is about to appear and that wine must no longer bethought of. It is well; but let me during the remainderof Cheeban [the month preceding] drink sucha quantity of it that I may remain drunk up to the dayof the fast.
They say that the moon of Ramazan [month of fasting]is about to appear and that wine must no longer bethought of. It is well; but let me during the remainderof Cheeban [the month preceding] drink sucha quantity of it that I may remain drunk up to the dayof the fast.
173.
Cease, if ye are my friends, all vain discourse, and,to relieve my mental pains pour out the wine. Andwhen to dust my frame returns, the self-same dustcollect and make it brick to stop some crevice in thetavern wall.
Cease, if ye are my friends, all vain discourse, and,to relieve my mental pains pour out the wine. Andwhen to dust my frame returns, the self-same dustcollect and make it brick to stop some crevice in thetavern wall.
174.
The beverage of our existence is sometimes limpid,sometimes muddy. Our garments are at one time ofcoarse wool, at another of finest fabric. All this is insignificantto a clear mind; but is it insignificant to die?
The beverage of our existence is sometimes limpid,sometimes muddy. Our garments are at one time ofcoarse wool, at another of finest fabric. All this is insignificantto a clear mind; but is it insignificant to die?
175.
No one has penetrated the secrets of the Principle[First Cause]. No one has taken a step outside himself.I look about and see only insufficiency from pupil tomaster, insufficiency in all that the mother brings forth.
No one has penetrated the secrets of the Principle[First Cause]. No one has taken a step outside himself.I look about and see only insufficiency from pupil tomaster, insufficiency in all that the mother brings forth.
176.
Restrain thy envy of the things of this world if thouwishest to be happy; break the bonds which enchainthee to the good and the bad here below; live contented,for the periodic movement of the heavens takes its course,and this life will not be of long duration.
Restrain thy envy of the things of this world if thouwishest to be happy; break the bonds which enchainthee to the good and the bad here below; live contented,for the periodic movement of the heavens takes its course,and this life will not be of long duration.
177.
No one has had access behind the curtain of destiny;no one has knowledge of the secrets of Providence. Forseventy-two years I have reflected day and night, I havelearned nothing anywhere, and the enigma remains unexplained.
No one has had access behind the curtain of destiny;no one has knowledge of the secrets of Providence. Forseventy-two years I have reflected day and night, I havelearned nothing anywhere, and the enigma remains unexplained.
178.
They say that at the last day there will be judgments,and that our dear Friend [God] will be in anger. Butfrom pure goodness only goodness emanates. Be thenwithout fear, for finally you will see that He is full ofgentleness.
They say that at the last day there will be judgments,and that our dear Friend [God] will be in anger. Butfrom pure goodness only goodness emanates. Be thenwithout fear, for finally you will see that He is full ofgentleness.
179.
Drink wine, since it is that which will put an end tothe disquiet of thy heart; it will deliver thee from thymeditations upon the seventy-two sects of the globe. Donot abstain from this alchemy for, if thou drinkest but amen[a measure] of it, it will destroy for thee a thousandinfirmities.
Drink wine, since it is that which will put an end tothe disquiet of thy heart; it will deliver thee from thymeditations upon the seventy-two sects of the globe. Donot abstain from this alchemy for, if thou drinkest but amen[a measure] of it, it will destroy for thee a thousandinfirmities.
180.