– Jaihoon
My soulful Tasbih once narrated
A dream that to me much mattered-
“Last night in a dream
A question from Him came
I was in the world hereafter
Away from the world of laughter
I was asked such a question
In this world never did I listen
‘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 on you I bestowed
Although very little had you bowed
Tell me, O my slave
What for Me you have?
What gift to give for Your Creator
Didn’t I honor you than angels better?’
I answered without the doubt slightest
My heart with the reply did indeed attest
O Merciful Lord of the worlds!
Hear what my heart heralds-
‘I found nothing more precious than this gem
Who charmed me with the Sultan of Arab and Ajam
I bring You the lines of Jaihoon, that son of Hind-
Who made my heart with love of Your Beloved blind”
O Tasbih! I have read dear readers’ comments,
And my near relatives’ sentiments
My teachers praise,
Eloquent orators’ verse-
None embraced my message as you did,
None honored this restless sage as you did
I raise my hands towards Him in prayer
These tearful words let Him tonight hear
“Ah! You are a witness;
Over these words are You a witness!”
13 July 2005.
Notes
This poem describes the dream of a spiritual friend.
world of laughter : This earthly world which is nothing but “play”.
amid your ribs : The heart
Didn’t I honor you than angels better : Angels were made to prostrate before Adam, symbolizing the greatness of clay-made Man over other creations.
son of Hind : of Indian origin
Ajam : meaning non-Arab
