Shah Latif `s Poetry (Translated In Verse By: Elsa Kazi) Kalyan-I (Peace)
1
The One Creator, the all greats;Lord of the universe-The living, the original;Ruler with power innate;The giver, the sustainer,the unique , compassionate;This master praise, to Him alonethyself in praise prostrate..The generous, who does createthe universe in pairs..
2
None shares His glory, "He was..is,shall be"..who this doth sayAccepts Mohammad as 'guide'with heart and love's true sway;None from amongst those lost their wayor ever went astray.
3
"He is without a partner" , whenthis glorious news you break-With love and knowledge, Mohammadaccept ..as cause him takeWhy would you then obeisance maketo others after that?
4
From One, many to being came;'many' but Oneness is;Don't get confounded, Realityis 'One' , this truth don't miss-Commotions vast diplay- all thisI vow, of Loved-one is.
5
The Echo and the call are same,if you sound's secret knew-They both were one, but two becameonly when 'hearing' came.
6
A thousand doors and windows too,the palace has ..but see,Wherever I might go or bemaster confronts me there
7
If you have learnt to long, by painbe not distressed-Secret of love's sorrow must be never confessed-Suffering is by the heart caressed,and there it is preserved.
8
The poison-drinking lovers, luredby poison sweet, drink more and more;To bitterness of fatal cup,the poison-drinkers are innured,Though wounds are festering, and uncured,no whispers to the vulgar goes.
9
All from Belved's side is sweetwhate'er He gives to you.There is no bitter, if you knewthe secret how to taste.
10
There is a call to gallow, friends,will any of you go!Those who do talk of love may Knowto gallows they must speed.
11
If you a draught desireto tavern find your way;Thy head do sever, and that headbeside the barrel lay;Onlywhen you this price do paythen few cupe you may quaff.
12
The genuine lover, for his headcare and concern has none;He cuts it off---joins it with breathas gift then hends it on ;Carves down to shoulders, forem loved-onethen begs for love's return.
13
To guard and to preservethe head,the lover,s business is not this---One of beloved's glance is worthso many hundreds head of his---Flesh, skinand bone, and all there is ,the 'least ' of loved-one , equals not.
Shah Latif `s Poetry (Translated In Verse By: Elsa Kazi) Kalyan Yaman-II (Path to peace)
1
Thou art the friend; the healer thou;For every pain the remedy--Cure for my herat, thy voice alonethe only cure it is for me......The reason why I call for theeis none can cure my heart but thou.
2
Thou art the friend, the Healer thuofor every ailment balm dost send;Merciful God--all druge are vain;the pains by drugs will never end;Unless ordered by thee O friend,no drug will ever sickness cure.
3
Thou art the friend, the Healer thou;for sufferings thou the remedy;Thou givest; curtest disease, dost guide,master thou art eternally--Yet, I am wonderstruck to seethat you physicians still provide.
4
Sttike friend-- thy hand raise,favour me--hold not your hand, and should I die By such death I shall honoured bewhich through this wound is caused.
II
5
Today still groans the thatches fill,where wounded lie and suffer;Although it is their twilight, stillsame ointment there and dressing
6
Poor wounded ones, so restless grow,yet grateful are for pain;For ever forward wish to goand here would not remain.
7
Mother, I cannot trust in thosewhose eyes with tears do over-flow-Who bring the water to their eyes,their sorrow to the world to show;Who love Beloved, hide their woe,no tears they show, nor speak about-
8
Physician, blundering and unwise,you cauterise my skin, and treatWith slops my heart-ache, know to whomscaffold a bridal-bed supplies,The one beatific vision liesin death, which is the union sweet.
9
Physicians you consulted butdieting you ignored...Had you obeyed, perhaps restoredto health you would be now.
10
Physicians were my neighboursI ne'er asked their advice-Therefore I find that in mine eyescataracts I now have formed.
III
11
Ah! suddenly they found themselvesin sphere of love...and thereThey cut their heads, left trunks apartsuch garland they did wear!Beauteous they were...to loved ones fairI saw them give their heads away!
12
Go to the moth, the surest wayof immolation ask-The moths, who throw themselves intothe fire every day;Whose tender hearts became a preyto cupid's arrow sharp.
13
The moths assembled, gathering above a raging fire...Heat drove them not, no fear they had,flames did their hearts inpire-Their necks they lost, and on the pyreof truth they burnt themselves.
14
If you call yourself a moth,from blaze return not terrified;Enter by the loved-one's lightand be ever glorifiedYou are still unbaked...besidenot yet with kiln acquainted are.
15
If you call yourself a moth,then come, put out the fires sway,Passion has so many bakedbut you roast passion's 'Self' today-Passion's flame with knowledge slay...of this to base folk give no hint.
16
Happy those who acquaintance makewith goodly grinding wheelTheir rapiers never then shall taketo rust, nor will corrde.
17
Apprentice of the blacksmith, worksthe bellows not with care;Not close to fire goes, he fearslove sparks that issue there.And yet proclaims he every where;"full-fledged blacksmith am I"!
18
Turn your head into an anvil,then for smithy do enquire,There the hammer-strokes of firemay turn you into steel.-
19
When I an arrow do reciveon that spot I remain;Perhaps my Hero-love againwill strike in mercy sweet.
20
Physician give no medicine.may health I never see...May be, enquiring after memy love to me will come.
21
Sacrifice your head, and 'suffer'if loved-ones send dismay...Say not, 'Forsaken''t is their waylike this to form their links
22
Those that cut me up, becamethe kindly surgeon too-The wound they quickly dressed, and curedwithin a day the sameOh heart! and now make this your aim "stay with them, and be safe from wounds"
23
As long there is no need, so long physician is not here...But when one day pain does appearit is as though the leech had come!
IV
24
They read and read, but what they readtheir hearts refuse to store-The more they pages turn, the moreare deeply steeped in sin.
25
O friend, why are you still inclinedto waste paper and ink-Go rather forth and try to findthe source where words were formed.
26
The world with 'I' doth overflowand with it flaunts about-But its own 'Self' it doth not know...'t is a migician's spell.
27
They do not heed the glorious line that does begin with 'A'-In vain they look for the Divine,though page on page they turn.
28
You only read the letter 'A'-all other pages put aside-Book-reading nothing will convey-but your being purify.
29
Unuttered is unknown...the utteredis never understood....behold,Although it be as true as gold,humanity takes never note.-
V
30
By 'giving' they were hurt,-'not giving'to them contentment brought-So they became sufis, as noughtthey did take with themselves.
31
To hear vile words, and not return,but hear them silently;This is the pearl, most precious pearl,we in guide's teaching see-But decked with jewels he will bewho with 'Silence' the Ego kills.
32
Those who never forgot the sorrow,and lesson learnt of woe-The slate of thought within both hands;'silence' they study so-They only read page which does showBeloved's lovely face.
33
Patience, humanity adopt,For anger is disease-Forbearance bringeth joy and 'peace',if you would understand.
34
The inoffensive don't offendforget who do offend-In this refined and cultured waythy day and night do spendThus meditating, humbly walk,until thy life doth end-A Lawyer keep within, O friend,to blush not, facing judge.
35
As long as of this daily worldno glimpses you obtain-A perfect view you will notgainof your love Heavenly.
36
True lovers never will forgettheir love Divine, until one dayTheir final breath will pass awayas tearful sigh.
Shah Latif `s Poetry (Translated In Verse By: Elsa Kazi) Khambat-III (Haven)
1
A moolit night, an open plain,and so for yet to go;My camel look not back, for you't is shame to waver so;Be steady, resolute, and showmy loved-ones you can reach
2
O full moon! though you rise adorned,your beauty to enhance;You are not a blink worth of my loveWith all charms you advance,Since your whole being but one glanceof the Beloved is.
3
A hundred suns may rise, and blazefour score-four moons may shine;I vow, without Beloved mineI am in darkest night
4
O moon, by magic fade away;may you be shorn of light-Or hide yourself so that I mightthe soul's Beloved meet.
5
In darkest midnight, the Belovedshows himself so clear;the moon and pleiades disappearyea, like an echo mere.
II
6
O moon, cast first thy silver-rayon the Beloved when you rise;And for thy Maker's sake, O moonmessage of helpless one convey;"My hopeful longing eyes, thy waywith tears are watching everyday."
7
O moon, the moment that you risefirst glance at the Beloved castSay to the dear one: I am sickIn you my only comfort lies"My hopeful and relying eyesAre ever set expecting you"
8
O moon, when you ascend the skiesfirst glance at the Beloved cast My message to the friend conveyCorrectly all, and all precise"M y hopeful and relying eyesare ever set expecting thee"
9
Rise moon, see the Beloved-thouart near and far am IPresence of Him in scented dewsI feel, that in night doth lie-On foot I cannot reach and father gives camel can't supplyOn which riding, ere dawn draws nighI easily could reach.
10
I shall die longing, love is kindbut Oh...so far is HeFather gives camel not to me-I am too weak to walk.
11
To the Beloved, when you riseO moon, thy very first glance send;And all the message I giveO moon, convey in truthful wise;"My hopeful and relying eyesare ever set expecting you."
12
Thy glance let the Beloved meet,O moon, and my requests submitBefittingly; above courtyardof the Beloved bow and greet;Speak gently...on Beloved's feetboth of thy light-hands softly lay.
13
O moon, all my entreaties safeinto thy shining garment tie,Low'ring your head, to loved one tellin what a wretched state am I;Remember; to the place you hieThat is whole universe's Hope.
III
14
O camel! spurn thy slothful mood-No longer now delay!But once unite me with my loveno more the truant play,But speed, ere night doth pass awayto meet my love after.
15
I must go where my love resides;to the Beloved speed!There I shall give thee sandal-woodand thou shalt no more feedOn salt-bush coarse, unfit for theeor any worthless weed;O hasten! there is urgent needto reach while night doth last.
16
Arise and take a forward step-be not an idler base;The highway to my love is straightand hath no winding ways...Self-pity drop...a gallop raiseto bring us swift and soon.
17
Remember your ancestry, andyour forebear's noble breed;Your stock is well-known near and farand you do hold indeed;Rare pedigree-and so we pleadshow us some kindness now.
18
I bound him near some glorious treethat he some buds might eat;Ill-mannered camel, on the slystill finds the salt-bush sweet.Woe's me-I know not how to treatCamel that so confounds.
19
I tried to saddle him, but e'enunsaddled he'd not rise-The way the herd is gone, he liesand only gapes that side.
20
My camel, I will give thee reinsof gold, and trappings fine;Not only buds of sandal woodbut thou on myrth shalt dine;If to the one Beloved mine thou wilt bring me this night.
21
The camel did forget the herd,nor e'en will salt-bush eat...His blown-up hump has now becomehis pampered passion's seat-Alas, this callous, new conceithe'll not drop unto death.
22
He goes not with the herd of lateand no more will he graze;Since Cupid's arrow wounded himhe hugs a curious craze;To his new love, with love-sick gazehe crawls, defying death.
23
Now sits with herd, musk-branches eats;yet calm remains his faceAh me, apparently my camelshows no outward trace.'Here' he is with the world, but grazewith heart doth fondly 'there'.
24
He's not what he was yesterdayreturning to the yard;He never at the manager looks-all food doth disregard;Seems, poison creepers on the swardhe ate when with the herd.
25
With zest thee camel browses nowon creepers such as made him yearn;But owners, keepers of the field,with shouts his sweet indulgence spurnThe poor intruder, powerlesshe grows from voices harsh and stern;No answer finds he in returnand all his arduous madness flies.
26
Good animal, what you did putyour teeth in, finding them so sweet;These baneful creepers if you eatwill bring you yet to grief and woe.
IV
27
Torrents of rain and wind-camelthere obstinate he lies-How shall I saddle him when riseunsaddled he will not.
28
A solid braided rope construct,with this your camel blind,The frgrant creepers everywhereall over grounds you'll find,Once tasted, he will leave behindall else, if he's not tied.
29
I fettered him with rope and chain,but shackles were in vain;He broke them all, and dragged them onwhere creepers decked the plain-O God, put sence and understandingin this camel's brainWith mercy free him from this painto rise above this curse.
30
O rise, and to thy haven farthy earthbound glances bear,May be a happy welcome thereawaits thee from thy love.
31
No-go and schackle him, he willrun wild if left alone;By temting him to cat, he'll playmore pranks, but won't alone;Load him and let him graze and groanwith heavy fetters bound.
32
Who laid a spell on you? and whowaylaid you, wished you ill?Blinkers you wear-your soles rubbed off-your kind not meet you will;And round and round, as in a millyou circumambulate.
33
My comely camel, won't you eatthe sandal wood and drink your fillOf cleanest purest water, foodthe finest you refuse it still-What law gave you the tasty thrillof salt-bush mere, above all else?
34
At last my camel every dayis browsing in that garden, whereTwo tree-shoots are worth millions therehandful of leaves are thousands worth.
35
Two tree-shoots are worth millions...nayone leaf alone five lakhs will be-Now to enrich his soul he eats,the wholesome blossoms of this tree-Here e'en a withered leaf we seeis many, many hundreds worth.
36
My lakhs-worth camel, that I boughtfor hundreds, beautiful becameFor any eye to see; don't blameand say too dearly he was bought.
37
My invaluable camel, friend,no praise is now for him too high;His manager fill with cardamomsthen saddle him, and he will fly,All distance he will defy,and here and now the Loved-one reach.
A moolit night, an open plain,and so for yet to go;My camel look not back, for you't is shame to waver so;Be steady, resolute, and showmy loved-ones you can reach
2
O full moon! though you rise adorned,your beauty to enhance;You are not a blink worth of my loveWith all charms you advance,Since your whole being but one glanceof the Beloved is.
3
A hundred suns may rise, and blazefour score-four moons may shine;I vow, without Beloved mineI am in darkest night
4
O moon, by magic fade away;may you be shorn of light-Or hide yourself so that I mightthe soul's Beloved meet.
5
In darkest midnight, the Belovedshows himself so clear;the moon and pleiades disappearyea, like an echo mere.
II
6
O moon, cast first thy silver-rayon the Beloved when you rise;And for thy Maker's sake, O moonmessage of helpless one convey;"My hopeful longing eyes, thy waywith tears are watching everyday."
7
O moon, the moment that you risefirst glance at the Beloved castSay to the dear one: I am sickIn you my only comfort lies"My hopeful and relying eyesAre ever set expecting you"
8
O moon, when you ascend the skiesfirst glance at the Beloved cast My message to the friend conveyCorrectly all, and all precise"M y hopeful and relying eyesare ever set expecting thee"
9
Rise moon, see the Beloved-thouart near and far am IPresence of Him in scented dewsI feel, that in night doth lie-On foot I cannot reach and father gives camel can't supplyOn which riding, ere dawn draws nighI easily could reach.
10
I shall die longing, love is kindbut Oh...so far is HeFather gives camel not to me-I am too weak to walk.
11
To the Beloved, when you riseO moon, thy very first glance send;And all the message I giveO moon, convey in truthful wise;"My hopeful and relying eyesare ever set expecting you."
12
Thy glance let the Beloved meet,O moon, and my requests submitBefittingly; above courtyardof the Beloved bow and greet;Speak gently...on Beloved's feetboth of thy light-hands softly lay.
13
O moon, all my entreaties safeinto thy shining garment tie,Low'ring your head, to loved one tellin what a wretched state am I;Remember; to the place you hieThat is whole universe's Hope.
III
14
O camel! spurn thy slothful mood-No longer now delay!But once unite me with my loveno more the truant play,But speed, ere night doth pass awayto meet my love after.
15
I must go where my love resides;to the Beloved speed!There I shall give thee sandal-woodand thou shalt no more feedOn salt-bush coarse, unfit for theeor any worthless weed;O hasten! there is urgent needto reach while night doth last.
16
Arise and take a forward step-be not an idler base;The highway to my love is straightand hath no winding ways...Self-pity drop...a gallop raiseto bring us swift and soon.
17
Remember your ancestry, andyour forebear's noble breed;Your stock is well-known near and farand you do hold indeed;Rare pedigree-and so we pleadshow us some kindness now.
18
I bound him near some glorious treethat he some buds might eat;Ill-mannered camel, on the slystill finds the salt-bush sweet.Woe's me-I know not how to treatCamel that so confounds.
19
I tried to saddle him, but e'enunsaddled he'd not rise-The way the herd is gone, he liesand only gapes that side.
20
My camel, I will give thee reinsof gold, and trappings fine;Not only buds of sandal woodbut thou on myrth shalt dine;If to the one Beloved mine thou wilt bring me this night.
21
The camel did forget the herd,nor e'en will salt-bush eat...His blown-up hump has now becomehis pampered passion's seat-Alas, this callous, new conceithe'll not drop unto death.
22
He goes not with the herd of lateand no more will he graze;Since Cupid's arrow wounded himhe hugs a curious craze;To his new love, with love-sick gazehe crawls, defying death.
23
Now sits with herd, musk-branches eats;yet calm remains his faceAh me, apparently my camelshows no outward trace.'Here' he is with the world, but grazewith heart doth fondly 'there'.
24
He's not what he was yesterdayreturning to the yard;He never at the manager looks-all food doth disregard;Seems, poison creepers on the swardhe ate when with the herd.
25
With zest thee camel browses nowon creepers such as made him yearn;But owners, keepers of the field,with shouts his sweet indulgence spurnThe poor intruder, powerlesshe grows from voices harsh and stern;No answer finds he in returnand all his arduous madness flies.
26
Good animal, what you did putyour teeth in, finding them so sweet;These baneful creepers if you eatwill bring you yet to grief and woe.
IV
27
Torrents of rain and wind-camelthere obstinate he lies-How shall I saddle him when riseunsaddled he will not.
28
A solid braided rope construct,with this your camel blind,The frgrant creepers everywhereall over grounds you'll find,Once tasted, he will leave behindall else, if he's not tied.
29
I fettered him with rope and chain,but shackles were in vain;He broke them all, and dragged them onwhere creepers decked the plain-O God, put sence and understandingin this camel's brainWith mercy free him from this painto rise above this curse.
30
O rise, and to thy haven farthy earthbound glances bear,May be a happy welcome thereawaits thee from thy love.
31
No-go and schackle him, he willrun wild if left alone;By temting him to cat, he'll playmore pranks, but won't alone;Load him and let him graze and groanwith heavy fetters bound.
32
Who laid a spell on you? and whowaylaid you, wished you ill?Blinkers you wear-your soles rubbed off-your kind not meet you will;And round and round, as in a millyou circumambulate.
33
My comely camel, won't you eatthe sandal wood and drink your fillOf cleanest purest water, foodthe finest you refuse it still-What law gave you the tasty thrillof salt-bush mere, above all else?
34
At last my camel every dayis browsing in that garden, whereTwo tree-shoots are worth millions therehandful of leaves are thousands worth.
35
Two tree-shoots are worth millions...nayone leaf alone five lakhs will be-Now to enrich his soul he eats,the wholesome blossoms of this tree-Here e'en a withered leaf we seeis many, many hundreds worth.
36
My lakhs-worth camel, that I boughtfor hundreds, beautiful becameFor any eye to see; don't blameand say too dearly he was bought.
37
My invaluable camel, friend,no praise is now for him too high;His manager fill with cardamomsthen saddle him, and he will fly,All distance he will defy,and here and now the Loved-one reach.
Shah Latif `s Poetry (Translated In Verse By: Elsa Kazi) Sorath-IV (King and Minstrel)
1
The minstrel came to Junagarhand here took out his lyre;With his entrancing melodieshe did all hearts inspire;With his bewitching magic-stringshe set whole town on fire-But palace-servants, princesses,were struck with anguish dire;"That Raja's head was bard's desire,lute spoke in accents clear."
2
The bard at though a living stringplayed with humility;The Raja in his palace fine,to hear him did agree;He mercifully called him in,and met him graciously-Then prince and bard, one harmony,one single 'self' became!
3
"I travelled many foreign lands,and have arrived today;Poor minstrel I, no tresures cravebut for your life I pray-To win this favour, let me play,Oh Sir, the time is short.-"
4
"Leaving all other doors, O kingI wandered to your door!Blest Sorth's husband, see my needa beggar doth implore,His empty apron fill once moreand happiness restore!"
5
The king sat on his glistening dais,the bard below him played;The faintest note of music sweetup to the Raja sped-To private folks that could not comethe minstrel too was led;-Fine horses were produced, rare gems,before the bard were spread,Who said: "no wealth like this, but headof Raja do I claim!"
6
No jewels can the mistrel pleaseno wealth, no property-From riches and from great rewardsHis only wish is, near to bethe giver of this wealth.
7
prince said: "I'll gladly sacrificeMy head for thee O Bard,Although this is a small rewardFor all thy music's worth...
8
"Were I to own a hundred headsAnd weigh them with thy strings-Behold the scale, how down it swingsOn side of strings divine!
9
"O Friend, my head is only bone:An empty, empty bone-If thousand heads my neck would ownI'll cut them all for thee!"
10
The strings, the dagger and the neckwere reconciled all thee-King said: "nought is so lovely thanyour wish to come to me,My head you craved...most heartilyI do thank God for that..."
11
"But singer, it astounded me,That while you played your strain.How could its sweetness you surviveAnd could alive remain?Last night, my being all in twainwas by your music cut."
II
12
The flower of Girnar plucked;The town is plunged in mourn and pain,Hundreds like Sorath stand and raiseTheir lamentations all in vain-The minstrel, holding lock, receivesThe prince's head adorned again-While virgins chant the sad refrain;"Last night the Raja passed away."
13
Sorath is dead; and all is peace-Ruler removed his tents-There are no singings and no shows,no tuneful elementss.-And after this, artist presentsThe head again to king!
14
Sorath is dead, and all is peace-Raja pitches his tents;Music is heard again...the showgoes on with merriments-Echo sounds song's sweet sentiments...Behold, the happy king!
The minstrel came to Junagarhand here took out his lyre;With his entrancing melodieshe did all hearts inspire;With his bewitching magic-stringshe set whole town on fire-But palace-servants, princesses,were struck with anguish dire;"That Raja's head was bard's desire,lute spoke in accents clear."
2
The bard at though a living stringplayed with humility;The Raja in his palace fine,to hear him did agree;He mercifully called him in,and met him graciously-Then prince and bard, one harmony,one single 'self' became!
3
"I travelled many foreign lands,and have arrived today;Poor minstrel I, no tresures cravebut for your life I pray-To win this favour, let me play,Oh Sir, the time is short.-"
4
"Leaving all other doors, O kingI wandered to your door!Blest Sorth's husband, see my needa beggar doth implore,His empty apron fill once moreand happiness restore!"
5
The king sat on his glistening dais,the bard below him played;The faintest note of music sweetup to the Raja sped-To private folks that could not comethe minstrel too was led;-Fine horses were produced, rare gems,before the bard were spread,Who said: "no wealth like this, but headof Raja do I claim!"
6
No jewels can the mistrel pleaseno wealth, no property-From riches and from great rewardsHis only wish is, near to bethe giver of this wealth.
7
prince said: "I'll gladly sacrificeMy head for thee O Bard,Although this is a small rewardFor all thy music's worth...
8
"Were I to own a hundred headsAnd weigh them with thy strings-Behold the scale, how down it swingsOn side of strings divine!
9
"O Friend, my head is only bone:An empty, empty bone-If thousand heads my neck would ownI'll cut them all for thee!"
10
The strings, the dagger and the neckwere reconciled all thee-King said: "nought is so lovely thanyour wish to come to me,My head you craved...most heartilyI do thank God for that..."
11
"But singer, it astounded me,That while you played your strain.How could its sweetness you surviveAnd could alive remain?Last night, my being all in twainwas by your music cut."
II
12
The flower of Girnar plucked;The town is plunged in mourn and pain,Hundreds like Sorath stand and raiseTheir lamentations all in vain-The minstrel, holding lock, receivesThe prince's head adorned again-While virgins chant the sad refrain;"Last night the Raja passed away."
13
Sorath is dead; and all is peace-Ruler removed his tents-There are no singings and no shows,no tuneful elementss.-And after this, artist presentsThe head again to king!
14
Sorath is dead, and all is peace-Raja pitches his tents;Music is heard again...the showgoes on with merriments-Echo sounds song's sweet sentiments...Behold, the happy king!
Shah Latif `s Poetry (Translated In Verse By: Elsa Kazi) Asa-V (Hope)
1
In Infinitude I ross,O guide no bound perceive mine eyesTortuous beauty of the Loved,Has no limit, has no size-Here intensive longing lies,There the Loved-ones do not care!
2
Cursed be duality, Beloved,From 'Self' do shelter me-O, hold the 'I' near thee,But thou canst reach 'thyself', O master.
3
But thou canst reach 'thyself' master;Nothing but Beauty is;O doubter, couldst thou doubt dismiss,There's no Idea then left.-
4
Beloved, hold the 'I' near thee;All self concern I've cast from me;Protector mine, with dualityI wasted far too many days!
5
That is real dualism, whenNon-dualist yourself you call;Be shorn of separateness, and 'Ego' let not thy soul enthral;For 'this', doth not exist at all;And 'that' not known is without 'this'.
6
'That' is not known without 'this', andFrom 'this', 'that' doth not separate stand;"Human my secret is, and IAm his, that thou must understand"-This voice did spound from end to end,By seers, and the knowing ones.
7
No one who loaded is with 'Self';The other side will see,For God is one, and Oneness loves;So spurn duality;And all thy anxious tears "to be",Shed at altar of unity.
8
The servant too has no beginning,And no end shall see-Who the Beloved found, shall beAbsorbed for ever there.
9
Everyone knows where he is I know not where I stand;Guides and books there many are,And they are close at hand-But I, do seek the distant landWhere 'yes' and 'no'are not.
10
'Yes' and 'no', still within reachOf earthly idea are;But beyond all vision farIs the Beauty that I seek.
11
Sometime or other, beauteous formsWill be overwhelming thee;But falcon of Reality,Let not heedlessly escape.
12
The sensuous beauty thrashed me soAs carders cotton beat;And now my hands are obsolete,My body's paralysed.
13
Confound thy senses, and renounceThy 'Self'...Him-knowing be;To recognize the Loved-one, dropThy personality;And then coarse multiplicityWith unity destroy-
II
14
The Loved-one bound me-Threw me into waters deep;And said: "Now dry do keep,And getting wet avoid."
15
One that is into water thrownFrom getting wet, how could be free?Enlightened one, this mysteryHow I might solve it, say-
16
"Rely on contemplation, butOf law neither neglectful be...Your heart get used to RealityWhich is your Destiny to see;Be resolute, and verilyYou'll be immune from getting wet."
17
Ah, Reality broke myExistence, so that I;Can no more breathe without it,In its presence high;My soul suffused doth lie,Exclusive of all else.-
18
Be silent- do not move your lips;Your eyes do close, your hearing stay...Drink not your fill, and at your mealsWhen still half hungry, turn away-And then a glimpse enjoy you mayOf image that your mind's depth holds.-
19
Would of the august secretI divulge one whit-Trees would burn up,-unfitFor growth all earth would be.-
III
20
Let your eyes an offering beFor Loved-one ere you break your fast;Sumptuous dishes serventyYou'll get by seeing Loved-ones face.-
21
If my eyes at rise for otherSight than the Beloved care-From their sockets I will tearMy eyes as morsels for the crows.-
22
Facial phenomenalistsDo not try to see with those,Longing gapings with those eyesNever Loved-ones features shows-Only when both eyes you closeThe Beloved you will see.
23
Dwell in mine eyes Beloved fairThat I can close them now;No one may ever see you thereAnd I nought else shall see.
24
Acquire eyes that able areto visualize Beloved's face;Not then at any other gazeLoved-ones are very sensitive.
25
About dead Elephant amongstthe blind arose parley-They handled it all over, butBlind eyes could nought convey-Decisive word can say-The 'seers' only can displayThe genuine truth of things.-
26
The sense of wonder doth not dwellWithin the vulgar mind-Secret of Love to trace and findIs no task for the blind.-
27
For whom so anxiously we pine,We ourselves are those;O doubt, be gone with all your woesFor Loved-ones we have found.-
28
Eyes weep and yet rejoice each dayto look and to adore-The more they see loved-ones, the moredrunk they with love do get.
29
The more I prohibited eyesto look, the more they longed;They crossed the sleeping world, to findloved-one at any price-They killed me ah...but in this wisepeace for themselves secured.-
30
Relationship with the 'visible',In no case do desire-Why not you for the real enquireand set out, seeking that?
31
Hear, and take note, that you yourselfare 'barrier', and what isBetween the union and its blissIs nothing but yourself.
32
The love wants that love's secretalone his own shall be;-But eyes that flow continuoslyand sinking heart;...betray.-
IV
33
Corrupt ones can corrupt, whose loveIs very weak, indeed-But whom love has consumed, succeedthey can't for he the vile one slew.-
34
When praying, think not of yourself,Or prayers are in vain;All thinking of yourself restrainDrop self, and then do pray.-
35
You profess to be a 'faithful'Holy maxims you recite...But your heart deceit is hidingDuality-satanic spite-Faithful outward, you delightin idolate'rise inside.-
36
Seek not the form of one that your'Beloved' you do call,As conversation not at allcan happen face to face.-
37
Converse you hold when cross you areCan never loved-one reachSome mischief monger longs to maryour heart, and spoil your love.
38
For to be cross is not the way;two stones, can they unite?'tis love that doth the cosmos sway-through love alone it lives.-
39
Each claims to be on right path here;But I have lost myself-Desiring and acquiring areSo very, very near-I set my mind on distant spherewhere 'yes' and 'no' are not.
40
Demerits world decries, loved-oneat so-called merits cross would be-My deeds, I mentioned with my tonguenow all undone in dust I see.-Then I discounted all my deeds,which once I thought were charity,An embassage I sent of shame;Regrets and deep humanity,But oh...my love made up with me only when 'I' had disappeared.-
41
Whose body is a rosary,the mind a bead, a harp the heart.Love-strings are playing there the themeof unity in every part;The nerves do chant: "There's none like thee;the 'One' and only one thou art.-E'en sleeping beauty they impart,their very sleep their worship is!
In Infinitude I ross,O guide no bound perceive mine eyesTortuous beauty of the Loved,Has no limit, has no size-Here intensive longing lies,There the Loved-ones do not care!
2
Cursed be duality, Beloved,From 'Self' do shelter me-O, hold the 'I' near thee,But thou canst reach 'thyself', O master.
3
But thou canst reach 'thyself' master;Nothing but Beauty is;O doubter, couldst thou doubt dismiss,There's no Idea then left.-
4
Beloved, hold the 'I' near thee;All self concern I've cast from me;Protector mine, with dualityI wasted far too many days!
5
That is real dualism, whenNon-dualist yourself you call;Be shorn of separateness, and 'Ego' let not thy soul enthral;For 'this', doth not exist at all;And 'that' not known is without 'this'.
6
'That' is not known without 'this', andFrom 'this', 'that' doth not separate stand;"Human my secret is, and IAm his, that thou must understand"-This voice did spound from end to end,By seers, and the knowing ones.
7
No one who loaded is with 'Self';The other side will see,For God is one, and Oneness loves;So spurn duality;And all thy anxious tears "to be",Shed at altar of unity.
8
The servant too has no beginning,And no end shall see-Who the Beloved found, shall beAbsorbed for ever there.
9
Everyone knows where he is I know not where I stand;Guides and books there many are,And they are close at hand-But I, do seek the distant landWhere 'yes' and 'no'are not.
10
'Yes' and 'no', still within reachOf earthly idea are;But beyond all vision farIs the Beauty that I seek.
11
Sometime or other, beauteous formsWill be overwhelming thee;But falcon of Reality,Let not heedlessly escape.
12
The sensuous beauty thrashed me soAs carders cotton beat;And now my hands are obsolete,My body's paralysed.
13
Confound thy senses, and renounceThy 'Self'...Him-knowing be;To recognize the Loved-one, dropThy personality;And then coarse multiplicityWith unity destroy-
II
14
The Loved-one bound me-Threw me into waters deep;And said: "Now dry do keep,And getting wet avoid."
15
One that is into water thrownFrom getting wet, how could be free?Enlightened one, this mysteryHow I might solve it, say-
16
"Rely on contemplation, butOf law neither neglectful be...Your heart get used to RealityWhich is your Destiny to see;Be resolute, and verilyYou'll be immune from getting wet."
17
Ah, Reality broke myExistence, so that I;Can no more breathe without it,In its presence high;My soul suffused doth lie,Exclusive of all else.-
18
Be silent- do not move your lips;Your eyes do close, your hearing stay...Drink not your fill, and at your mealsWhen still half hungry, turn away-And then a glimpse enjoy you mayOf image that your mind's depth holds.-
19
Would of the august secretI divulge one whit-Trees would burn up,-unfitFor growth all earth would be.-
III
20
Let your eyes an offering beFor Loved-one ere you break your fast;Sumptuous dishes serventyYou'll get by seeing Loved-ones face.-
21
If my eyes at rise for otherSight than the Beloved care-From their sockets I will tearMy eyes as morsels for the crows.-
22
Facial phenomenalistsDo not try to see with those,Longing gapings with those eyesNever Loved-ones features shows-Only when both eyes you closeThe Beloved you will see.
23
Dwell in mine eyes Beloved fairThat I can close them now;No one may ever see you thereAnd I nought else shall see.
24
Acquire eyes that able areto visualize Beloved's face;Not then at any other gazeLoved-ones are very sensitive.
25
About dead Elephant amongstthe blind arose parley-They handled it all over, butBlind eyes could nought convey-Decisive word can say-The 'seers' only can displayThe genuine truth of things.-
26
The sense of wonder doth not dwellWithin the vulgar mind-Secret of Love to trace and findIs no task for the blind.-
27
For whom so anxiously we pine,We ourselves are those;O doubt, be gone with all your woesFor Loved-ones we have found.-
28
Eyes weep and yet rejoice each dayto look and to adore-The more they see loved-ones, the moredrunk they with love do get.
29
The more I prohibited eyesto look, the more they longed;They crossed the sleeping world, to findloved-one at any price-They killed me ah...but in this wisepeace for themselves secured.-
30
Relationship with the 'visible',In no case do desire-Why not you for the real enquireand set out, seeking that?
31
Hear, and take note, that you yourselfare 'barrier', and what isBetween the union and its blissIs nothing but yourself.
32
The love wants that love's secretalone his own shall be;-But eyes that flow continuoslyand sinking heart;...betray.-
IV
33
Corrupt ones can corrupt, whose loveIs very weak, indeed-But whom love has consumed, succeedthey can't for he the vile one slew.-
34
When praying, think not of yourself,Or prayers are in vain;All thinking of yourself restrainDrop self, and then do pray.-
35
You profess to be a 'faithful'Holy maxims you recite...But your heart deceit is hidingDuality-satanic spite-Faithful outward, you delightin idolate'rise inside.-
36
Seek not the form of one that your'Beloved' you do call,As conversation not at allcan happen face to face.-
37
Converse you hold when cross you areCan never loved-one reachSome mischief monger longs to maryour heart, and spoil your love.
38
For to be cross is not the way;two stones, can they unite?'tis love that doth the cosmos sway-through love alone it lives.-
39
Each claims to be on right path here;But I have lost myself-Desiring and acquiring areSo very, very near-I set my mind on distant spherewhere 'yes' and 'no' are not.
40
Demerits world decries, loved-oneat so-called merits cross would be-My deeds, I mentioned with my tonguenow all undone in dust I see.-Then I discounted all my deeds,which once I thought were charity,An embassage I sent of shame;Regrets and deep humanity,But oh...my love made up with me only when 'I' had disappeared.-
41
Whose body is a rosary,the mind a bead, a harp the heart.Love-strings are playing there the themeof unity in every part;The nerves do chant: "There's none like thee;the 'One' and only one thou art.-E'en sleeping beauty they impart,their very sleep their worship is!
Shah Latif `s Poetry (Translated In Verse By: Elsa Kazi) Pirbhati-VI (Song of Dawn)
1
These are not ways you knew beforethy fiddle hanging on the peg,And lovely dawn, as if it wereyour enemy, so to ignore;'Musician' call yourself no more if to adore you thus forget,-
2
How fast you sleep! in pillows puttour face and weep with sorrow;May be your violin lies tomorrowforsaken on the ground.
3
The true musician has no peace;nowhere for long he tarries-On shoulder-strap his violin carriesand asks the way to wastes.
4
Confounded do you roam...O saywhere were you yesterday?My minstrel, now no longer loll,but leave your listless way-Go to the king's door, beg and prayfor things of genuine worth!
5
The king is giving secretlygifts to ungifted ones;If this those artists were to hearthey never would agree,Their fiddles instantancouslyto smithereens would reduce!
6
So many minstrels, of what useis all the craft they ply?What servant deems so precious, maybe sin in master's eyes-Alchemy thou, and brazen Ithy look turns me to gold!
7
Bestowal is not due to caste,whoever works, obtains,At childish ways of innocenceforbearance king maintains;Who one night at his court remainsshall e'er be free from pains!
8
It is the Givers great reproach,against musicians vain;"Why do you beg at other doorsand mine do not approachHence harm and hardship do encroachupon their happiness.
9
The only Giver thou, and wethe humble beggars are;Rains seasons have...Thy bounty's raindoth pour eternally;A visitation sweet, from theeexalts, though soiled I be!
10
The morning star has risen...Oharise, adore thy master,He swiftly turns away; doth knowminds of musicians all!
These are not ways you knew beforethy fiddle hanging on the peg,And lovely dawn, as if it wereyour enemy, so to ignore;'Musician' call yourself no more if to adore you thus forget,-
2
How fast you sleep! in pillows puttour face and weep with sorrow;May be your violin lies tomorrowforsaken on the ground.
3
The true musician has no peace;nowhere for long he tarries-On shoulder-strap his violin carriesand asks the way to wastes.
4
Confounded do you roam...O saywhere were you yesterday?My minstrel, now no longer loll,but leave your listless way-Go to the king's door, beg and prayfor things of genuine worth!
5
The king is giving secretlygifts to ungifted ones;If this those artists were to hearthey never would agree,Their fiddles instantancouslyto smithereens would reduce!
6
So many minstrels, of what useis all the craft they ply?What servant deems so precious, maybe sin in master's eyes-Alchemy thou, and brazen Ithy look turns me to gold!
7
Bestowal is not due to caste,whoever works, obtains,At childish ways of innocenceforbearance king maintains;Who one night at his court remainsshall e'er be free from pains!
8
It is the Givers great reproach,against musicians vain;"Why do you beg at other doorsand mine do not approachHence harm and hardship do encroachupon their happiness.
9
The only Giver thou, and wethe humble beggars are;Rains seasons have...Thy bounty's raindoth pour eternally;A visitation sweet, from theeexalts, though soiled I be!
10
The morning star has risen...Oharise, adore thy master,He swiftly turns away; doth knowminds of musicians all!
Shah Latif `s Poetry (Translated In Verse By: Elsa Kazi) Khahori-VIII (Wandering Ascetics)
1
Traversing far off realms, O friendsKhahoris have returned at last;Their feet covered with dust...what landsit came from-oh, how do I know.
2
On wild growths hill-ascetics feed,they seek the land ne'er known or heard-Upon the dusty, stony groundsthey lay their flanks when rest they need;To seek the light they do proceedand seek it from infinity.
3
The hill-ascetics I did see,those who do not in houses dwell;In biting wind they weep like rainwith longing for Divinity-With sorrow they keep company,and live on sorrow day and night.
4
Old ragged ropes for shoes they wear;their faces are dried up, and wan-Oh, at that land they had a peepthat learned ones could see no-whereSecretive ones, have secrets rareof regions that still further lie.-
5
Their arms hold water-bags all dry-and on their feet ropes old and torn;Eyes pouring rain...O passer-byAscetics such did e'er you meet!
II
6
The load of truth cannot be borneupon the head, I fear,And deaf you have to be, the callof Reality to hear.-Make yourself blind, so that the dearBeloved you may see.-
7
How beautiful is darkest nightin which you lose world's way-Your greed for this and that,-O quiteforgotten it will be.
8
The common road do not go near;but walk where 'they' walk not;Cross over then by longing mereand nothing take with thee.-
9
Wanderers need no conveyance, no!for horse do not care-Although their minds are set ondestination far and fair;In wastes search food...torn rags they wear,and that their sign-mark is.
10
I saw the wand'rers that a peepat the Beloved had;One night I in their place did staytheir company to keep.To know them, is in drowning deepto have a safety raft.
11
Dust-covered they do walk their way,and mix themselves with clay;No secrets tell to stupid folk,nor gossip or delay;Some secret of the Loved-one theybear in their heart all-time.
12
Knowledge hides snakes, and many findfolly as honey sweet,Who passed them both...left both behindhe found the 'Reality'.
III
13
Those who had lost their way were witha deep emotion stirredThose seers in the waste stood blindand nothing more they heard-Their ears were closed-like dumb they walkedas if their minds were blurred...Their only sorrow separation was which they incurred-All they gave up for 'Lahut', butfor this they hungered-Asleep...awake...longing was spurredbut never was alleyed.
14
The spot where One Beloved dwellshow happy't is, how sweet-Turn off from places where you meetall the inhuman crowds.
15
Those who the bare hills came to knowno more for harvests cared-To Ganjo-hills they longed to goLahutis to become.
16
Those who the bare hills came to knowfothwith all books did close...Their sleep had gone, for Ganjo-hillstheir longing hearts did glow...They yearned Lahutis to becomewhen dust from hills did blow.-From smell of hills left wordly showLahutis to become.
17
See where the bird can never fly;a tiny fire twinkles there-Who could have kindled it so highexcept the wandering, homeless kind?
18
Restless Khahoris did destroytheir bodies in a holy moodAnd so their spirit gained the foodthey had wished to obtain.
19
Wand'rers had girded up their loins...on heights they one with dust became,So they at last had reached, their aimthrough sorrow mountains top had found.
Traversing far off realms, O friendsKhahoris have returned at last;Their feet covered with dust...what landsit came from-oh, how do I know.
2
On wild growths hill-ascetics feed,they seek the land ne'er known or heard-Upon the dusty, stony groundsthey lay their flanks when rest they need;To seek the light they do proceedand seek it from infinity.
3
The hill-ascetics I did see,those who do not in houses dwell;In biting wind they weep like rainwith longing for Divinity-With sorrow they keep company,and live on sorrow day and night.
4
Old ragged ropes for shoes they wear;their faces are dried up, and wan-Oh, at that land they had a peepthat learned ones could see no-whereSecretive ones, have secrets rareof regions that still further lie.-
5
Their arms hold water-bags all dry-and on their feet ropes old and torn;Eyes pouring rain...O passer-byAscetics such did e'er you meet!
II
6
The load of truth cannot be borneupon the head, I fear,And deaf you have to be, the callof Reality to hear.-Make yourself blind, so that the dearBeloved you may see.-
7
How beautiful is darkest nightin which you lose world's way-Your greed for this and that,-O quiteforgotten it will be.
8
The common road do not go near;but walk where 'they' walk not;Cross over then by longing mereand nothing take with thee.-
9
Wanderers need no conveyance, no!for horse do not care-Although their minds are set ondestination far and fair;In wastes search food...torn rags they wear,and that their sign-mark is.
10
I saw the wand'rers that a peepat the Beloved had;One night I in their place did staytheir company to keep.To know them, is in drowning deepto have a safety raft.
11
Dust-covered they do walk their way,and mix themselves with clay;No secrets tell to stupid folk,nor gossip or delay;Some secret of the Loved-one theybear in their heart all-time.
12
Knowledge hides snakes, and many findfolly as honey sweet,Who passed them both...left both behindhe found the 'Reality'.
III
13
Those who had lost their way were witha deep emotion stirredThose seers in the waste stood blindand nothing more they heard-Their ears were closed-like dumb they walkedas if their minds were blurred...Their only sorrow separation was which they incurred-All they gave up for 'Lahut', butfor this they hungered-Asleep...awake...longing was spurredbut never was alleyed.
14
The spot where One Beloved dwellshow happy't is, how sweet-Turn off from places where you meetall the inhuman crowds.
15
Those who the bare hills came to knowno more for harvests cared-To Ganjo-hills they longed to goLahutis to become.
16
Those who the bare hills came to knowfothwith all books did close...Their sleep had gone, for Ganjo-hillstheir longing hearts did glow...They yearned Lahutis to becomewhen dust from hills did blow.-From smell of hills left wordly showLahutis to become.
17
See where the bird can never fly;a tiny fire twinkles there-Who could have kindled it so highexcept the wandering, homeless kind?
18
Restless Khahoris did destroytheir bodies in a holy moodAnd so their spirit gained the foodthey had wished to obtain.
19
Wand'rers had girded up their loins...on heights they one with dust became,So they at last had reached, their aimthrough sorrow mountains top had found.
Shah Latif `s Poetry (Translated In Verse By: Elsa Kazi) Purab-IX (East)
1
Dear crow, after obesance fallat the Beloved's feet-Message I give thee, dont't forget,in transit, I entreat,I beg in God,s name secretlymy message do repeat;My words correctly and repeat;convey just as say.
2
Come flying my dear crow, bring newsback from the other side;Sir down, a note of union strike,and all in me confide...My loved-ones that seem to abideso far away, bring here.
3
From loved-ones, there in foreign lands bring news, and not delay-Thy feathers I will cover witha wealth of gold-array-Circle above his house, conveymy message to my love.
4
Oh! crow, I'll tear my heart from thismy breast with my own hands;You peck at it before my love,that dwells in foreign lands;May be he says; "there are no friendsthat dare such sacrifice."
5
The crow is back, and sitting nowOn yonder twig, quite near;-He came last night, and greetings sweetBrought from my precious dear-Stop spinning sisters! that I hearAll what Beloved said.-
6
The crow brought happy news for me,From the Beloved mine;My wishes all have been fulfilled,No more I need repine-My life is joy, powers divineHave fruitful made my prayers.
7
A dog, a crow from loved-ones's sideWill so delight mine eyes!On them my 'Self' I'll sacrificeA hundred times a day.
8
Not make that crow a messengerThat doth for carrion search!Will he deliver messagesOr heed his stomch's urge?What message carry will that scourgeWhose speech is: "Caw, caw, caw?"
II
9
In longing for my loved-ones IDo rove around all day;Hoping he'll raise his eyes, and maySweet recognition grant.
10
My comfort all is from those eyes,That smilingly they raise;Loved-one's smiles have relieved my woeAnd all my sorrow flies...World thinks their emaciation liesIn hunger, but from sorrow' tis.
11
At mid-night Eastern Yogis closedTheir house...I failed to hearTheir soul-converse, when gradullyDawn's pale lights did appear.-Strange yogis, whose detachment hereE'en by compassion is not marred.
12
On high-way they already are,To East, far East they roam-And they have sacrificeed this home To build the future one.
13
The East has killed me...none I findTo whom I can complain;Advising world, and guiding it,I lost myself my mind-I made love to higher kindWho were not likes of mine.
14
You comfort seek, and call yourself'Sami', yet are not trained;At journey's start exhausted grew,And more and more complained-You had not even found a guide,...To be consummate, so you feigned-Your soul should be to 'Sami' chainedWith 'Him' identified for aye.
15
To keep your greedy body fit,You beg for grains pretentiously,May be that you your ears have slitPalate to lease with luxuries.
Dear crow, after obesance fallat the Beloved's feet-Message I give thee, dont't forget,in transit, I entreat,I beg in God,s name secretlymy message do repeat;My words correctly and repeat;convey just as say.
2
Come flying my dear crow, bring newsback from the other side;Sir down, a note of union strike,and all in me confide...My loved-ones that seem to abideso far away, bring here.
3
From loved-ones, there in foreign lands bring news, and not delay-Thy feathers I will cover witha wealth of gold-array-Circle above his house, conveymy message to my love.
4
Oh! crow, I'll tear my heart from thismy breast with my own hands;You peck at it before my love,that dwells in foreign lands;May be he says; "there are no friendsthat dare such sacrifice."
5
The crow is back, and sitting nowOn yonder twig, quite near;-He came last night, and greetings sweetBrought from my precious dear-Stop spinning sisters! that I hearAll what Beloved said.-
6
The crow brought happy news for me,From the Beloved mine;My wishes all have been fulfilled,No more I need repine-My life is joy, powers divineHave fruitful made my prayers.
7
A dog, a crow from loved-ones's sideWill so delight mine eyes!On them my 'Self' I'll sacrificeA hundred times a day.
8
Not make that crow a messengerThat doth for carrion search!Will he deliver messagesOr heed his stomch's urge?What message carry will that scourgeWhose speech is: "Caw, caw, caw?"
II
9
In longing for my loved-ones IDo rove around all day;Hoping he'll raise his eyes, and maySweet recognition grant.
10
My comfort all is from those eyes,That smilingly they raise;Loved-one's smiles have relieved my woeAnd all my sorrow flies...World thinks their emaciation liesIn hunger, but from sorrow' tis.
11
At mid-night Eastern Yogis closedTheir house...I failed to hearTheir soul-converse, when gradullyDawn's pale lights did appear.-Strange yogis, whose detachment hereE'en by compassion is not marred.
12
On high-way they already are,To East, far East they roam-And they have sacrificeed this home To build the future one.
13
The East has killed me...none I findTo whom I can complain;Advising world, and guiding it,I lost myself my mind-I made love to higher kindWho were not likes of mine.
14
You comfort seek, and call yourself'Sami', yet are not trained;At journey's start exhausted grew,And more and more complained-You had not even found a guide,...To be consummate, so you feigned-Your soul should be to 'Sami' chainedWith 'Him' identified for aye.
15
To keep your greedy body fit,You beg for grains pretentiously,May be that you your ears have slitPalate to lease with luxuries.
Shah Latif `s Poetry (Translated In Verse By: Elsa Kazi) Bilawal-X (The Tune of Life)
1
Believe in word of invitationof the Giver kind;Just rinse your mouth, and you will findthat food you will receive.
2
Drive vulgar crowds out of the house,peace with the sovereign make-From that door then on favours browsereceiving gifts each day.
3
Don't long for wine of paradise,cross over, nearer still-Between you and the Union lierewards,...this do realise!Sama's presence to find, arise!your wishes to fulfil.
4
Sama, the crown is on your headelse many leaders be-Oh, from your treasure house, such thousandsbeg the priceless bread,And bounty rich for them is spreadaccording to their bowls!
5
The kettle drums break one and all,all hollow are insideOn no one but on Hashmi callThe door of Hashmi seek.
6
One who upholds those in despair,helps those who seek refuge;This prop of humble ones, shirks notwhen millions crave his care...Aghast all chieftains stand...but therethe smiling one they spy!-
7
Stop not at every watering placebut seek the deep, full lake;Head of the realm if you can reachthere wait wealth and solace;The one who made poor rich, onlyhis turban try to trace,Tarnish of hundreds he'll erase,when head he lifts and speaks!
8
All credit due to Jakhro is,others commands obeyThis favourite's station, ah, whereit be, no one can say;From what he fashioned was, that claywas just enough for him.
9
Jakhro worthy is, and the restbut name of 'king' do bear;As Jakhro was produced, othersthat way no fashioned were;Clay needed for his make so rarefor him was just enough.
10
The leader's messages I storeso deep within my heartOf other doors I think no moreSince Jakhro I have seen!
11
No one like Jakhro I can seeOn earth where'er I gaze,The leader of all leaders, ofExalted status he-Two bows' length, even less, his placeis from divine glory;O lord, greaty you favoured meby giving me this guide!
12
Oh Jakhro, may you ever live;Of you may I no evil hear-Solace to eyes and heart you give,their only sweet support, is you.
13
Oh leader, well your ways are knownall over foreign lands;How many have you set on horse backsthat had weary grown?You ask no faults of those who moan,But all you do accept!
14
He even gives in anger...lo,when pleased his bounty pours,Benevolence doth overflowin noble Jakhro's mind.
15
Don't punish the obedient ones;but head strong do destroy;Forget not 'Battle Great', no joyno gain give battles small.
16
Come to the Major Battle, thoughmany small battles fight...And never cease to sweep awaypassion-worshiper's blight.-With the support of Hyder's lightfight, and destroy the foe!
17
Jakhro adore! he who appearedthe hunger of the land-Those who were trembling in their ragsin silken shawls now stand;It was by noble Jakhro's handthe needy ones were filled!
18
The moment I arrived my feetwere cooled, my thirst was quenched;A desert walker water sweethad found in scorching waste.-
19
Beneath whose shelter I do dwellnoble man, may he live!The waters that wayfarers drink,may never dry that well...Oh smiling one! mine eyes excelin comfort, seeing you.
II
20
Vagand has now returned again,his efforts all were vain...So gladly would he here remaindress, food, bed to obtain!
21
Vagand has now returned again-when all had got their shareA beating from his wife he got,nought else she gave him there!And now with zest he doth declarehe'll e'er lie at my feet!
22
Ah...in the hope of breakfast fineVagand again is here;He never more will leave this place,nor will he leave his Pir-Perfume of spring he smells- so dearprospects of breakfast are!
23
In body he so shrivelled looks,at eating he is great;He smells...sweetness to cultivatehe begs master for scent-
24
Poor Vagand, now so dutifulis always at the door;He loves perfumes so much...therefore,he rakes the horse' dung.
25
Vagand has now returned again,returned a hell complete!He says: "Pir's heaven, dirty onesturns into roses sweet-Keep near perfumes, to be repletewith clean, refreshing smells."
Believe in word of invitationof the Giver kind;Just rinse your mouth, and you will findthat food you will receive.
2
Drive vulgar crowds out of the house,peace with the sovereign make-From that door then on favours browsereceiving gifts each day.
3
Don't long for wine of paradise,cross over, nearer still-Between you and the Union lierewards,...this do realise!Sama's presence to find, arise!your wishes to fulfil.
4
Sama, the crown is on your headelse many leaders be-Oh, from your treasure house, such thousandsbeg the priceless bread,And bounty rich for them is spreadaccording to their bowls!
5
The kettle drums break one and all,all hollow are insideOn no one but on Hashmi callThe door of Hashmi seek.
6
One who upholds those in despair,helps those who seek refuge;This prop of humble ones, shirks notwhen millions crave his care...Aghast all chieftains stand...but therethe smiling one they spy!-
7
Stop not at every watering placebut seek the deep, full lake;Head of the realm if you can reachthere wait wealth and solace;The one who made poor rich, onlyhis turban try to trace,Tarnish of hundreds he'll erase,when head he lifts and speaks!
8
All credit due to Jakhro is,others commands obeyThis favourite's station, ah, whereit be, no one can say;From what he fashioned was, that claywas just enough for him.
9
Jakhro worthy is, and the restbut name of 'king' do bear;As Jakhro was produced, othersthat way no fashioned were;Clay needed for his make so rarefor him was just enough.
10
The leader's messages I storeso deep within my heartOf other doors I think no moreSince Jakhro I have seen!
11
No one like Jakhro I can seeOn earth where'er I gaze,The leader of all leaders, ofExalted status he-Two bows' length, even less, his placeis from divine glory;O lord, greaty you favoured meby giving me this guide!
12
Oh Jakhro, may you ever live;Of you may I no evil hear-Solace to eyes and heart you give,their only sweet support, is you.
13
Oh leader, well your ways are knownall over foreign lands;How many have you set on horse backsthat had weary grown?You ask no faults of those who moan,But all you do accept!
14
He even gives in anger...lo,when pleased his bounty pours,Benevolence doth overflowin noble Jakhro's mind.
15
Don't punish the obedient ones;but head strong do destroy;Forget not 'Battle Great', no joyno gain give battles small.
16
Come to the Major Battle, thoughmany small battles fight...And never cease to sweep awaypassion-worshiper's blight.-With the support of Hyder's lightfight, and destroy the foe!
17
Jakhro adore! he who appearedthe hunger of the land-Those who were trembling in their ragsin silken shawls now stand;It was by noble Jakhro's handthe needy ones were filled!
18
The moment I arrived my feetwere cooled, my thirst was quenched;A desert walker water sweethad found in scorching waste.-
19
Beneath whose shelter I do dwellnoble man, may he live!The waters that wayfarers drink,may never dry that well...Oh smiling one! mine eyes excelin comfort, seeing you.
II
20
Vagand has now returned again,his efforts all were vain...So gladly would he here remaindress, food, bed to obtain!
21
Vagand has now returned again-when all had got their shareA beating from his wife he got,nought else she gave him there!And now with zest he doth declarehe'll e'er lie at my feet!
22
Ah...in the hope of breakfast fineVagand again is here;He never more will leave this place,nor will he leave his Pir-Perfume of spring he smells- so dearprospects of breakfast are!
23
In body he so shrivelled looks,at eating he is great;He smells...sweetness to cultivatehe begs master for scent-
24
Poor Vagand, now so dutifulis always at the door;He loves perfumes so much...therefore,he rakes the horse' dung.
25
Vagand has now returned again,returned a hell complete!He says: "Pir's heaven, dirty onesturns into roses sweet-Keep near perfumes, to be repletewith clean, refreshing smells."
Shah Latif `s Poetry (Translated In Verse By: Elsa Kazi) Sarang_XI (Rain Song)
1
Warm preparations are againin progress everywhere;Again the lightnings have begunto leap with arduous flare;Some towards Istanbul do dive,some to the West repair;Some over China glitter, someof Samerquand take care;Some wander to Byazantium, Kabul,some to Kandhar fare;Some lie on Delhi, Deccan, somereach Girnar, thundering thereAnd greens on Bikanir pour thosethat jump from JesalmareSome Bhuj have soaked, others descenton Dhat with gentle air...Those crossing Umerkote have madethe fields fertile and fair...O God, may ever you on Sindhbestow abundance rare;Beloved! all the world let sharethy grace, and fruitful be.
II
2
O see, the low'ring, sombre skies!the cum'lous clouds have pouredTheir big-dropped showers; now take outyour herds, prepare, and rise;Leave lower grounds, to uplands goand practise old device,Take your provisions and supplies...despair not of God's grace.
3
Today too from the northern sidethe rain-quails notes reach here;The ploughers ploughshares ready make,herdsmen are full of cheer...Today too nature doth appearin rich array of rain!
4
Today too there are hopes of rain,the clouds are dark and low-O friends, with monsoons, longing forthe loved one comes again-I hope the rain will water wellthe parched and longing plain...Beloved come! my life sustain,all seasons then feel spring.
5
Man, deer and buffaloes do pantfor rain, ducks hopes for clouds;After as though in supplicationsounds the rain-quail's chant;At sea, each morn the oysters begthat skies the rain may grant-Give lots of rain! with joy rampantthe herdsmen then become.
6
The rain pours on the desert-sandson hills and vales around;At early dawn we, rise to hear,the churns soft, humming sound-The hands are full of butter, wiveswith merriment abound-Each buffalo for milking broughtathwart the grassy ground;In thatches here we never foundmistress and mind so glad!
7
The cloud, with colours rich and brightpaints towers in the skies-It brought the violins, zitherns, flutes,tambors that give delight...While jar on jar rain-sprite at nightpours into Padam lake...
8
Season's orchestra's in full swing,fresh showers ease the mind;On mountain-side so green with grass;cattle abundance find;Gay herdsmen's wives about their necksof blossoms garlands wind;-Cucumbers, mushrooms, vegetablesfood of every kind;Lord! days of dearth let lie behind,ne'er let them reach the earth.-
9
Season's orchestra's in full swing,rain-quails pipe tenderly;Peasants repair their ploughs, herdsmenrejoice with ecstasy-My friend in perfect from...O seepredicts a downpour great!
10Season's orchestra's in full swing,clouds move up, near and far;The grain is cheap, and brimful nowof butter is each jar-Rust that my heedless heart did mar,this God-reminder cleansed.
11
Cloud was commanded: 'Rain must come',and cloud obeyed so fain-Lightning arrived, rain pattered, poured,came to remain and reign;The hoarder who for dearness hopednow wrings his hands in vain,Five multiplied to fifteen; sothe page has turned again,The profiteer may disappearand cause no longer pain...The kine-herds sit together now,relating tales of rain-O God, who happiness would gain,must on thy grace rely!
III
12
O, rain, were lessons you to takefrom my poor, pouring eyes,Then night and day, in cloudy guiseyour drizzle would not stop!
13
Mists do not leave mine eyes, if cloudsare there or not, mists stay;Remembering Loved one, o'er my cheeksmy tears flow night and day...Oh, those whose loves are far awaymay never cease to weep.-
14
Though inside all is overcast,outside from every cloud is free...Lightnings mature within, in whomLove doth reside eternally...Their eyes shall never rainless bein whom thought of 'Beloved' reigns.
Warm preparations are againin progress everywhere;Again the lightnings have begunto leap with arduous flare;Some towards Istanbul do dive,some to the West repair;Some over China glitter, someof Samerquand take care;Some wander to Byazantium, Kabul,some to Kandhar fare;Some lie on Delhi, Deccan, somereach Girnar, thundering thereAnd greens on Bikanir pour thosethat jump from JesalmareSome Bhuj have soaked, others descenton Dhat with gentle air...Those crossing Umerkote have madethe fields fertile and fair...O God, may ever you on Sindhbestow abundance rare;Beloved! all the world let sharethy grace, and fruitful be.
II
2
O see, the low'ring, sombre skies!the cum'lous clouds have pouredTheir big-dropped showers; now take outyour herds, prepare, and rise;Leave lower grounds, to uplands goand practise old device,Take your provisions and supplies...despair not of God's grace.
3
Today too from the northern sidethe rain-quails notes reach here;The ploughers ploughshares ready make,herdsmen are full of cheer...Today too nature doth appearin rich array of rain!
4
Today too there are hopes of rain,the clouds are dark and low-O friends, with monsoons, longing forthe loved one comes again-I hope the rain will water wellthe parched and longing plain...Beloved come! my life sustain,all seasons then feel spring.
5
Man, deer and buffaloes do pantfor rain, ducks hopes for clouds;After as though in supplicationsounds the rain-quail's chant;At sea, each morn the oysters begthat skies the rain may grant-Give lots of rain! with joy rampantthe herdsmen then become.
6
The rain pours on the desert-sandson hills and vales around;At early dawn we, rise to hear,the churns soft, humming sound-The hands are full of butter, wiveswith merriment abound-Each buffalo for milking broughtathwart the grassy ground;In thatches here we never foundmistress and mind so glad!
7
The cloud, with colours rich and brightpaints towers in the skies-It brought the violins, zitherns, flutes,tambors that give delight...While jar on jar rain-sprite at nightpours into Padam lake...
8
Season's orchestra's in full swing,fresh showers ease the mind;On mountain-side so green with grass;cattle abundance find;Gay herdsmen's wives about their necksof blossoms garlands wind;-Cucumbers, mushrooms, vegetablesfood of every kind;Lord! days of dearth let lie behind,ne'er let them reach the earth.-
9
Season's orchestra's in full swing,rain-quails pipe tenderly;Peasants repair their ploughs, herdsmenrejoice with ecstasy-My friend in perfect from...O seepredicts a downpour great!
10Season's orchestra's in full swing,clouds move up, near and far;The grain is cheap, and brimful nowof butter is each jar-Rust that my heedless heart did mar,this God-reminder cleansed.
11
Cloud was commanded: 'Rain must come',and cloud obeyed so fain-Lightning arrived, rain pattered, poured,came to remain and reign;The hoarder who for dearness hopednow wrings his hands in vain,Five multiplied to fifteen; sothe page has turned again,The profiteer may disappearand cause no longer pain...The kine-herds sit together now,relating tales of rain-O God, who happiness would gain,must on thy grace rely!
III
12
O, rain, were lessons you to takefrom my poor, pouring eyes,Then night and day, in cloudy guiseyour drizzle would not stop!
13
Mists do not leave mine eyes, if cloudsare there or not, mists stay;Remembering Loved one, o'er my cheeksmy tears flow night and day...Oh, those whose loves are far awaymay never cease to weep.-
14
Though inside all is overcast,outside from every cloud is free...Lightnings mature within, in whomLove doth reside eternally...Their eyes shall never rainless bein whom thought of 'Beloved' reigns.
Shah Latif `s Poetry (Translated In Verse By: Elsa Kazi) Suriraag-XII (Sailing)
1
O friend, I often did beseechan old boat do not have;With worn out sails, the heavy wave
2
Thy boat oil daily, mend its leaks,and keep in mind, one dayThe vessel has to sail away,a voyage long to make!
3
With riggings furnish it, and thentake it to depth remote,So that from every harm thy boatsecure and safe may be.
4
Acquire you such merchandisewhich time corrupteth not,That when you sell to far off landsno loss may be thy lot-In goods deal only which allotto thee mainstay secure.
5
Those who with merchandise of Trutha lasting bargain made;"You will get your reward", to themthese tidings are conveyed-Those were they whom the Powers ledthrough mighty ocean's swell.
6
To ocean dedicate yourselfwhere endless waters flow;Thousands of pearls and precious thingsits current holds below-An ounce of such wealth will bestow,on you a fortune rare.
7
No wave the path of those can staywho worship the sublime;Effect of their repentance makesthem safely swim away;Propped by 'Reliance absolute'they pass wild current's sway,By 'Perfect Sailor' met were theyin mid-current, as guide!
8
With precious ware of 'service great'their vessels they did lade;'Real Recognition' s' pearls they wonwhose worth can never fade;'Rrestraint from sin and evil', oh-that bargain too they made;May with their blessing I evadeperils, when crossing sea!
9
So difficult it is to fareon the path to 'Divine'.So difficult, so very hardthe way, for those who dare-And even those who know the landconfusion meets them there;Its violent cross-current to bearenter with love intense!-
II
10
Goods there were heaps and manifold,traders forgetful were;Some came in good time and purchasedall that the stores did hold-Some loitered, and all things were soldwhen they had come to buy.
11
The water through the boat did seep,and precious goods were spoiled;With spots and smudges some were soiledand some with rust got black.
12
You came and had at shores a peep,that you had heard about.-When everyone had gone to rest,you also went to sleep;And so you brought the boat headlingto whirlpools wild and deep-The wreck that is too worn and oldmay God from sinking keep-The wretched ones inside relyon you, they fret and weep,Arise and help! their praises reapand bring them safe to port!
13
Boatman, upon the raging seaboth ways you cannot have;Whole nights you sleep, resting your backon rudder carelessly-But there across at morn they'll beand of your doings ask!
14
Sleep not O helmsman! shun your cot,when danger lurks ahead;The shore is foaming like the curdthat foams in churning pot...O helmsman, sleep befits you notin such an awful state!
15
The divers met the waves that foamedwith hidden treachery-They battled with the eddies deep,their fight was grim and dree;Yet, 't was they who sought the sea,and brought the lovely pearls.
16
Where'er a pearl exists, behold!the thieves their haunts will have,And him awaits fortune untoldwho guards the pearl from thieves.
III
17
Not offer precious stones to thosewho know not gold from brass;To true jewellers in exchangeyour jewels you may pass;Ah, those who deal in gold, the massof metals base they spurn.
18
But gold- dealers have gone...Oh gold't were best you too should go-Since no one here your worth doth knowthey'll mix you up with brass.
19
The glass-beads are in fasion nowreal pearls no more appeal...My tunic's full of Truth, I feelashamed to offer it.
20
The lapidaries that cut gems,since long from there they fled;And their successors do not know e'en how to deal with lead,And smiths now pewter beat insteadwhere lapidaries worked!
21
I dealt in glass, and never madepurchase of any pearl;All tinsel-stuff and leaden wareand trash I bought instead;But suddenly, I found, my tradewas placed with gold-experts!
22
With falsehoods I did pass my days;divine commands I broke-The vessel overflows with sinand with my doings base; Oh knower of the secret waysthou know'st already all!
23
The lies that you had hugged, forsake!approach the source divine Drive from your heart chicanery,to honest dealings take;The Master liketh truth of heartIn mind love's fire wake,Thus humbly do approach, and makea bargain, fruitful, good.
24
O God! a bargain that is best,I beg bestow on me;The helpless one no power has,but Master, turns to thee,O guide, without thy help no onecan reach his destiny-Who faces high wave on the sea,with mercy pick him up...
IV
25
The maid unwarilythe gem in casket broke...The gem when whole, its pricea lakh or two would be,Now it is crushed...ah me,'tis more than millions worth!
26
Those who kept up all nightto adore Glorious One;Latif says: E'en their dustbecame with honour dight;Scores to their resting site flock, homage there to pay.
O friend, I often did beseechan old boat do not have;With worn out sails, the heavy wave
2
Thy boat oil daily, mend its leaks,and keep in mind, one dayThe vessel has to sail away,a voyage long to make!
3
With riggings furnish it, and thentake it to depth remote,So that from every harm thy boatsecure and safe may be.
4
Acquire you such merchandisewhich time corrupteth not,That when you sell to far off landsno loss may be thy lot-In goods deal only which allotto thee mainstay secure.
5
Those who with merchandise of Trutha lasting bargain made;"You will get your reward", to themthese tidings are conveyed-Those were they whom the Powers ledthrough mighty ocean's swell.
6
To ocean dedicate yourselfwhere endless waters flow;Thousands of pearls and precious thingsits current holds below-An ounce of such wealth will bestow,on you a fortune rare.
7
No wave the path of those can staywho worship the sublime;Effect of their repentance makesthem safely swim away;Propped by 'Reliance absolute'they pass wild current's sway,By 'Perfect Sailor' met were theyin mid-current, as guide!
8
With precious ware of 'service great'their vessels they did lade;'Real Recognition' s' pearls they wonwhose worth can never fade;'Rrestraint from sin and evil', oh-that bargain too they made;May with their blessing I evadeperils, when crossing sea!
9
So difficult it is to fareon the path to 'Divine'.So difficult, so very hardthe way, for those who dare-And even those who know the landconfusion meets them there;Its violent cross-current to bearenter with love intense!-
II
10
Goods there were heaps and manifold,traders forgetful were;Some came in good time and purchasedall that the stores did hold-Some loitered, and all things were soldwhen they had come to buy.
11
The water through the boat did seep,and precious goods were spoiled;With spots and smudges some were soiledand some with rust got black.
12
You came and had at shores a peep,that you had heard about.-When everyone had gone to rest,you also went to sleep;And so you brought the boat headlingto whirlpools wild and deep-The wreck that is too worn and oldmay God from sinking keep-The wretched ones inside relyon you, they fret and weep,Arise and help! their praises reapand bring them safe to port!
13
Boatman, upon the raging seaboth ways you cannot have;Whole nights you sleep, resting your backon rudder carelessly-But there across at morn they'll beand of your doings ask!
14
Sleep not O helmsman! shun your cot,when danger lurks ahead;The shore is foaming like the curdthat foams in churning pot...O helmsman, sleep befits you notin such an awful state!
15
The divers met the waves that foamedwith hidden treachery-They battled with the eddies deep,their fight was grim and dree;Yet, 't was they who sought the sea,and brought the lovely pearls.
16
Where'er a pearl exists, behold!the thieves their haunts will have,And him awaits fortune untoldwho guards the pearl from thieves.
III
17
Not offer precious stones to thosewho know not gold from brass;To true jewellers in exchangeyour jewels you may pass;Ah, those who deal in gold, the massof metals base they spurn.
18
But gold- dealers have gone...Oh gold't were best you too should go-Since no one here your worth doth knowthey'll mix you up with brass.
19
The glass-beads are in fasion nowreal pearls no more appeal...My tunic's full of Truth, I feelashamed to offer it.
20
The lapidaries that cut gems,since long from there they fled;And their successors do not know e'en how to deal with lead,And smiths now pewter beat insteadwhere lapidaries worked!
21
I dealt in glass, and never madepurchase of any pearl;All tinsel-stuff and leaden wareand trash I bought instead;But suddenly, I found, my tradewas placed with gold-experts!
22
With falsehoods I did pass my days;divine commands I broke-The vessel overflows with sinand with my doings base; Oh knower of the secret waysthou know'st already all!
23
The lies that you had hugged, forsake!approach the source divine Drive from your heart chicanery,to honest dealings take;The Master liketh truth of heartIn mind love's fire wake,Thus humbly do approach, and makea bargain, fruitful, good.
24
O God! a bargain that is best,I beg bestow on me;The helpless one no power has,but Master, turns to thee,O guide, without thy help no onecan reach his destiny-Who faces high wave on the sea,with mercy pick him up...
IV
25
The maid unwarilythe gem in casket broke...The gem when whole, its pricea lakh or two would be,Now it is crushed...ah me,'tis more than millions worth!
26
Those who kept up all nightto adore Glorious One;Latif says: E'en their dustbecame with honour dight;Scores to their resting site flock, homage there to pay.
Shah Latif `s Poetry (Translated In Verse By: Elsa Kazi) Samudi-XIII (Mariners)
1
Lady, at moorings do remain;and so prevent the mariners,From plunging you in sudden painby setting sail all suddenly.
2
Lady, at moorings do reside,and keep the fire in your heart;Burn on, that mariners abidewith you, not leave you suddenly.
3
At moorings settle down, nor tryto take a rash and careless step,Or else they will not wait, but willat once to foreign regions hie,You knew their home was ocean...whydid you not with them go?
4
Anchor and chains lifted, they arealready far upon the wayDesolate are port and bazarfor mariners have sailed away.
5
When loved-ones did voyaging startI was in youth, my blossom-time,Oh friend, my weeping could not holdmy merchant-love, he would depart;On fire did he set my heartand then did sail away.
6
They sailed away! leaving you here-aeons have passed and none came back,Sorrow for vanished ones, alackwill surely kill you poor one!
7
They sailed along so very far,Till to the mighty deep they got,Where swell of ocean swept them off,and swiftly down and down they shot,Descending to the traceless spotwhich is fathomlessness!
8
Ah me! a mixture of deep woeare nuptial ties with mariners;My body he on spikes laid low,and then my merchant hoisted sail.
9
May you forget the trade you learnt--But yesterday I met you hereToday I see you disappearsailing on ocean waves!
10
My love seems feeble, luckless fate;They pushed the boat off ere I knew;With sailors yesterday a bondI should have made, today's too late.Why did I not throw myself straightInto the boat, with hawsers bound?
11
I at the pier did stand when theyTheir anchor lifted and set sail.On God relying, night and dayI shall not cease for them to prayMy longing sighs my life shall swayTill to my arms they do return!
II
12
On foot I cannot reach...they sayso far from me the ports do lie;No fare in pinaforce or purseI possess for the strip to pay;Oh ferry-man, so manage thatThe dearly loved-one meet I may;In anguish at thy door I stayEach day beseeching thee with tears.
13
Alas! no one doth lift a hand-no one will have them in the boat...Without a fare, and at the shoreall day till sunset they did stand-Then God Almighty help did send,and to the landing place they got!
14
The wives of merchants, waiting there,Did bring their offerings to the sea;Bright lights they kindled everywhere-And even musk to waters gave.
15
Ah...now the mast-flag is in sight,Although the sails not yet they see...And thrilled with infinite delightAre those who loved-ones do expect.
16
The ploughers of the salty deep,The waters sweet have entered now;Their inmates bargained not for goldBut greater wealth they wished to reap,The flourishing mariners, loPort of Ceylon for pearls did sweep,And safely in the boat they keepThe treasures they in "Lanka" found.
17
Oh sisters, if to my homesteadMy love would come, what joy for me-Handfuls of pearls around his headI'll turn, and then to others throw.
18
For those, for whom I sacrificed,Did worship waters, kindle lights-My hopes all have been realized,My loved-ones have returned to me!
19
She kindled lights on land and seaAnd pretty tufts to trees she tied"Oh God I have great hope in TheeMy Loved-one, back to me let come."
20
She who to sea no offerings makes,And doth not kindle floating lights-Is not in earnest, hath no stake,Beloved she will never meet.
Lady, at moorings do remain;and so prevent the mariners,From plunging you in sudden painby setting sail all suddenly.
2
Lady, at moorings do reside,and keep the fire in your heart;Burn on, that mariners abidewith you, not leave you suddenly.
3
At moorings settle down, nor tryto take a rash and careless step,Or else they will not wait, but willat once to foreign regions hie,You knew their home was ocean...whydid you not with them go?
4
Anchor and chains lifted, they arealready far upon the wayDesolate are port and bazarfor mariners have sailed away.
5
When loved-ones did voyaging startI was in youth, my blossom-time,Oh friend, my weeping could not holdmy merchant-love, he would depart;On fire did he set my heartand then did sail away.
6
They sailed away! leaving you here-aeons have passed and none came back,Sorrow for vanished ones, alackwill surely kill you poor one!
7
They sailed along so very far,Till to the mighty deep they got,Where swell of ocean swept them off,and swiftly down and down they shot,Descending to the traceless spotwhich is fathomlessness!
8
Ah me! a mixture of deep woeare nuptial ties with mariners;My body he on spikes laid low,and then my merchant hoisted sail.
9
May you forget the trade you learnt--But yesterday I met you hereToday I see you disappearsailing on ocean waves!
10
My love seems feeble, luckless fate;They pushed the boat off ere I knew;With sailors yesterday a bondI should have made, today's too late.Why did I not throw myself straightInto the boat, with hawsers bound?
11
I at the pier did stand when theyTheir anchor lifted and set sail.On God relying, night and dayI shall not cease for them to prayMy longing sighs my life shall swayTill to my arms they do return!
II
12
On foot I cannot reach...they sayso far from me the ports do lie;No fare in pinaforce or purseI possess for the strip to pay;Oh ferry-man, so manage thatThe dearly loved-one meet I may;In anguish at thy door I stayEach day beseeching thee with tears.
13
Alas! no one doth lift a hand-no one will have them in the boat...Without a fare, and at the shoreall day till sunset they did stand-Then God Almighty help did send,and to the landing place they got!
14
The wives of merchants, waiting there,Did bring their offerings to the sea;Bright lights they kindled everywhere-And even musk to waters gave.
15
Ah...now the mast-flag is in sight,Although the sails not yet they see...And thrilled with infinite delightAre those who loved-ones do expect.
16
The ploughers of the salty deep,The waters sweet have entered now;Their inmates bargained not for goldBut greater wealth they wished to reap,The flourishing mariners, loPort of Ceylon for pearls did sweep,And safely in the boat they keepThe treasures they in "Lanka" found.
17
Oh sisters, if to my homesteadMy love would come, what joy for me-Handfuls of pearls around his headI'll turn, and then to others throw.
18
For those, for whom I sacrificed,Did worship waters, kindle lights-My hopes all have been realized,My loved-ones have returned to me!
19
She kindled lights on land and seaAnd pretty tufts to trees she tied"Oh God I have great hope in TheeMy Loved-one, back to me let come."
20
She who to sea no offerings makes,And doth not kindle floating lights-Is not in earnest, hath no stake,Beloved she will never meet.
Shah Latif `s Poetry (Translated In Verse By: Elsa Kazi) Kamod-XIV (Love-dependent)
1
You noble are, I humble amthe seat of demerits am I-Seeing your queens, O king, your eyeturn not away from fisher-folk.
2
You noble are, I humble amscores of defects abide with me-When heaps of smelling fish you see,turn not away from fisher-folk.
3
You are king, master of the landand I sell fish, poor fisher-maid,Do not forsake me, for't is saidthat I, oh king, belong to thee.
4
Those who do feed on smelling fish,and fish is all their property-The king, the noble king, O see!with them relationship has made-
5
The basket full of smelling fish,and all the loaded herring-trays-Fishers, whoses touch avoided is and such unpleasantness conveysThe king strands in their thatch alwaysand gently holds converse with them!
II
6
Now she longer catches fish,nor cuts, cooks, cures as formerly;She neither holds the scales and weight,not fish-net in her hands we see-Now to the court-modes cleaveth she,such as befits a kingly house!
7
Her hands and feet, her face and formno more of fisher-maid remind-As there's a chief-string in the luteshe's queen of all the queens combined;From the beginning all her wayswere queenly, noble and refined,The king perceived it and did bindthe regal bracelet on her wrist!
8
Fie upon maids of princely castewho walk stiff-necked, so haughtily-Praise to the daughter of the lake,her true love to the king gave she...Out of all royal ladies, he,the pearl bestowed on fisher-maid.
III
9
Court-ladies now adorn themselves,to win king back with beauty spells-But king midst fisher people dwells,within his hand the fishing-net!
10
The fishing-net in hands of king,and fisher-maid did rudder sway!Upon the lake all yesterdayfish-hunting gay was going on!-
11
"On deep, clear waters of the lake,with my beloved now I sail,Of my desires none did fail,all are fulfilled, none went astray."
12
Upon the waters transparent,along the banks float lotus-flowers,And all the lake rich fragrance showersas sweet as musk when spring-winds blow.
IV
13
Credit of raising fisher-maidBelongs to Tamachi,He took her in his carriage, anda human-being heMade out of her,...in Keenjhar, see!All say this is the truth.
14
Of those before the 'Jam' was bornthe fish-maid nothing knows,They don't attend ceremonies,go not to weddings, nor to shows,What hath lake-life to do with those?they only know the head, the king.
15
...None gave king birth, to no one birthgave He-He's generous,...alone-The fisher women old and young,as His relations He doth own;"He is not born, He gives no birth"-blance unique, to change unknownTamachi's high eternal throne,so great and oh, so glorious is!
You noble are, I humble amthe seat of demerits am I-Seeing your queens, O king, your eyeturn not away from fisher-folk.
2
You noble are, I humble amscores of defects abide with me-When heaps of smelling fish you see,turn not away from fisher-folk.
3
You are king, master of the landand I sell fish, poor fisher-maid,Do not forsake me, for't is saidthat I, oh king, belong to thee.
4
Those who do feed on smelling fish,and fish is all their property-The king, the noble king, O see!with them relationship has made-
5
The basket full of smelling fish,and all the loaded herring-trays-Fishers, whoses touch avoided is and such unpleasantness conveysThe king strands in their thatch alwaysand gently holds converse with them!
II
6
Now she longer catches fish,nor cuts, cooks, cures as formerly;She neither holds the scales and weight,not fish-net in her hands we see-Now to the court-modes cleaveth she,such as befits a kingly house!
7
Her hands and feet, her face and formno more of fisher-maid remind-As there's a chief-string in the luteshe's queen of all the queens combined;From the beginning all her wayswere queenly, noble and refined,The king perceived it and did bindthe regal bracelet on her wrist!
8
Fie upon maids of princely castewho walk stiff-necked, so haughtily-Praise to the daughter of the lake,her true love to the king gave she...Out of all royal ladies, he,the pearl bestowed on fisher-maid.
III
9
Court-ladies now adorn themselves,to win king back with beauty spells-But king midst fisher people dwells,within his hand the fishing-net!
10
The fishing-net in hands of king,and fisher-maid did rudder sway!Upon the lake all yesterdayfish-hunting gay was going on!-
11
"On deep, clear waters of the lake,with my beloved now I sail,Of my desires none did fail,all are fulfilled, none went astray."
12
Upon the waters transparent,along the banks float lotus-flowers,And all the lake rich fragrance showersas sweet as musk when spring-winds blow.
IV
13
Credit of raising fisher-maidBelongs to Tamachi,He took her in his carriage, anda human-being heMade out of her,...in Keenjhar, see!All say this is the truth.
14
Of those before the 'Jam' was bornthe fish-maid nothing knows,They don't attend ceremonies,go not to weddings, nor to shows,What hath lake-life to do with those?they only know the head, the king.
15
...None gave king birth, to no one birthgave He-He's generous,...alone-The fisher women old and young,as His relations He doth own;"He is not born, He gives no birth"-blance unique, to change unknownTamachi's high eternal throne,so great and oh, so glorious is!
Shah Latif `s Poetry (Translated In Verse By: Elsa Kazi) Sasui: Desi-XVI (The Native)
1
I careless was first part of night;so morning brought despair-For while I slept my rider-spousefor travel did repair;For my destruction to prepareat mid-night they did leave.
2
O mountain-, that does stand betweenmy love and me, thy threat is vain-Had there a thousand mountains beenmy longing would have crossed them all.
3
The sacred knot that love has tiedbetween Punhu and me...Now in beauteous Bhambore to stayPoison for me shall be...Do not advise me sisters, toreturn to home and glee;Because my breath is propertyof my beloved Hoat.
4With linging I lay down, with eyesawake and found no slept, he cameand then I could not rise-Sisters I erred, for in what wiseis longing kin to sleep?
I careless was first part of night;so morning brought despair-For while I slept my rider-spousefor travel did repair;For my destruction to prepareat mid-night they did leave.
2
O mountain-, that does stand betweenmy love and me, thy threat is vain-Had there a thousand mountains beenmy longing would have crossed them all.
3
The sacred knot that love has tiedbetween Punhu and me...Now in beauteous Bhambore to stayPoison for me shall be...Do not advise me sisters, toreturn to home and glee;Because my breath is propertyof my beloved Hoat.
4With linging I lay down, with eyesawake and found no slept, he cameand then I could not rise-Sisters I erred, for in what wiseis longing kin to sleep?
Shah Latif `s Poetry (Translated In Verse By: Elsa Kazi) Sasui: Kohiyari-XVII (The Mountain Path)
1
Careless one, drop this drowsiness;no more for slumber seek-O shamless one, drive sleep from eyesand be no longer weak-So that you may not have to shriekin mountains after him-
2
Those who upon their couches lay,with outstretched leags, alas...The company did pass away,leaving such sleeping ones.
3
Reproach comes to unlucky oneswho so much sleep desire;Why after Punhu do enquirewho sleep from sunset on?
4
Hard-hearted mount, vain was my plea,high-handed tyrant thou;My being you sawed, as wood-cuttersdo cut the helpless tree;But for decree of DestinyOh, who would walk thy stones?
5
O mountain, when my love I meet;your tortures I'll relate;Your hideous shadow ghosts at dawn,your winding way's deceit,You did me not with kindness treatbut dimmed the loved-one's tracks.
6
O silent mountain, not a clueyou give me my love-But yesterday a camel-cadein long row moved through you,This dead one's spouse, did you not viewamongst the company?
7
O mountain, to the friend I'll bearat once the gret reproach;That you to shreds the very solesof my poor feet did tear;That your soul is of pity bareand ne'er any worth you know.
8
O mountain, hearts of sorrowing onesyou should console and soothe;Instead of that, their feet you bruise-you stony, callous one.
9
O mountain, each day in sacrificeI throw myself on you-Because there are mysterious ties'twixt you and my love's tale.
10
O mount, the helpless one in woenow sits with you and weeps;But never anyone lets knowthe links twixt you and her.
11
O mountain, though you hot have grownyou cannot harm me now;You may be made of hardest stonemy limbs are iron-made-'t is no one's fault, it is my ownmy own strange destiny.
II
12
O Punhu do not leave me herein mountains weird and dire-I'll walk with you on foot, and fireto Bhambore I will set.
13
Reflection of my Punhu, lightit doth display and shade;I have to walk the chequered road...O see, the cloth is laidIn soda-wash, and clean is madeere colours it receives.
14
Reflection of my Punhu islike cloud and flash, and IFollow this Prince and sob and sighand weep without respite.
15
Reflection of my Punhu isthe acme of all Bliss-For his sake my most luckless dayfor me comfort it isCalamity my Prince left, hissweetest gift for me.
Careless one, drop this drowsiness;no more for slumber seek-O shamless one, drive sleep from eyesand be no longer weak-So that you may not have to shriekin mountains after him-
2
Those who upon their couches lay,with outstretched leags, alas...The company did pass away,leaving such sleeping ones.
3
Reproach comes to unlucky oneswho so much sleep desire;Why after Punhu do enquirewho sleep from sunset on?
4
Hard-hearted mount, vain was my plea,high-handed tyrant thou;My being you sawed, as wood-cuttersdo cut the helpless tree;But for decree of DestinyOh, who would walk thy stones?
5
O mountain, when my love I meet;your tortures I'll relate;Your hideous shadow ghosts at dawn,your winding way's deceit,You did me not with kindness treatbut dimmed the loved-one's tracks.
6
O silent mountain, not a clueyou give me my love-But yesterday a camel-cadein long row moved through you,This dead one's spouse, did you not viewamongst the company?
7
O mountain, to the friend I'll bearat once the gret reproach;That you to shreds the very solesof my poor feet did tear;That your soul is of pity bareand ne'er any worth you know.
8
O mountain, hearts of sorrowing onesyou should console and soothe;Instead of that, their feet you bruise-you stony, callous one.
9
O mountain, each day in sacrificeI throw myself on you-Because there are mysterious ties'twixt you and my love's tale.
10
O mount, the helpless one in woenow sits with you and weeps;But never anyone lets knowthe links twixt you and her.
11
O mountain, though you hot have grownyou cannot harm me now;You may be made of hardest stonemy limbs are iron-made-'t is no one's fault, it is my ownmy own strange destiny.
II
12
O Punhu do not leave me herein mountains weird and dire-I'll walk with you on foot, and fireto Bhambore I will set.
13
Reflection of my Punhu, lightit doth display and shade;I have to walk the chequered road...O see, the cloth is laidIn soda-wash, and clean is madeere colours it receives.
14
Reflection of my Punhu islike cloud and flash, and IFollow this Prince and sob and sighand weep without respite.
15
Reflection of my Punhu isthe acme of all Bliss-For his sake my most luckless dayfor me comfort it isCalamity my Prince left, hissweetest gift for me.
Shah Latif `s Poetry (Translated In Verse By: Elsa Kazi) Sasui: Ma'dhuri-XVIII (The Helpless)
1
Hast thou not heard a voice Sasui?or dost at random walk?Hundreds of Sasui's walked behindtheir lovers before thee-From start Baluchi progenyhas no compassion learnt
2
O grieving one; brush pain aside,and comforts do forget-Your eyes on Punhu's footprints set,that you may find him soon.
3
Start on the road denuded, greed,temptations do not keep-And those who are too fond of sleep,their tryst with loved-one miss.
4
Leave all your lovely robes behind,and nothing with you bring;One, burdened not with anythingKeeps forefront on the way.
5
One that without a burden walkswill soon the loved-one meet-But she has missed her union sweetwho affects lovely wraps.
6
She who adorns herself, in vainwaits for the meeting true;She is deprived like Leela, whosold her love for jewels.
II
7
A thousand thorns do prick my feet;they cause me endless woe!Alas, my feet are torn, one toemeets not the other toe;And yet, with bare feet I will goto my beloved one.
8
With hands, feet, knees, and every breathSasui you must proceed;Your guide will meet you at the streamand give you further lead;As long there's breath, place nought, indeedBut Punhu in your heart.
9
I could not my Beloved meetand now you set, o sun!My message to the loved-one bringbefore my day is done;when you reach Kech say: "Helpless oneis dying on the way".
10
I could not reach my loved-one, andmy life's already past...Alas, the woeful one did wasteher days declining fast-In old age now, her eyes are castupon her Punhu rare.-
11
Alas, I could not reach my love-already death appears...Beloved did not come, althoughI looked for him for years-Destroyed by separation's tearsI destined am to die.-
12
Die and relieve, so that Beautyof loved-one leaves you never;Acceptable you'll be for ever,accepting this advice.
13
Die to be beautiful, life ishindrance twixt him and you,-Helpless one, boldly do pursue,give breath to find the friend.
14
Who die before death, never willdestroyed by dying be.-Who live ere second life they seewill live eternally.
Hast thou not heard a voice Sasui?or dost at random walk?Hundreds of Sasui's walked behindtheir lovers before thee-From start Baluchi progenyhas no compassion learnt
2
O grieving one; brush pain aside,and comforts do forget-Your eyes on Punhu's footprints set,that you may find him soon.
3
Start on the road denuded, greed,temptations do not keep-And those who are too fond of sleep,their tryst with loved-one miss.
4
Leave all your lovely robes behind,and nothing with you bring;One, burdened not with anythingKeeps forefront on the way.
5
One that without a burden walkswill soon the loved-one meet-But she has missed her union sweetwho affects lovely wraps.
6
She who adorns herself, in vainwaits for the meeting true;She is deprived like Leela, whosold her love for jewels.
II
7
A thousand thorns do prick my feet;they cause me endless woe!Alas, my feet are torn, one toemeets not the other toe;And yet, with bare feet I will goto my beloved one.
8
With hands, feet, knees, and every breathSasui you must proceed;Your guide will meet you at the streamand give you further lead;As long there's breath, place nought, indeedBut Punhu in your heart.
9
I could not my Beloved meetand now you set, o sun!My message to the loved-one bringbefore my day is done;when you reach Kech say: "Helpless oneis dying on the way".
10
I could not reach my loved-one, andmy life's already past...Alas, the woeful one did wasteher days declining fast-In old age now, her eyes are castupon her Punhu rare.-
11
Alas, I could not reach my love-already death appears...Beloved did not come, althoughI looked for him for years-Destroyed by separation's tearsI destined am to die.-
12
Die and relieve, so that Beautyof loved-one leaves you never;Acceptable you'll be for ever,accepting this advice.
13
Die to be beautiful, life ishindrance twixt him and you,-Helpless one, boldly do pursue,give breath to find the friend.
14
Who die before death, never willdestroyed by dying be.-Who live ere second life they seewill live eternally.
Shah Latif `s Poetry (Translated In Verse By: Elsa Kazi) Sasui: Husaini-XIX (The Wailings)
1
O look not back! nor hesitate,for sun declines in West-Thy pace do quicken, do not restere sunrise try to reach
2
O sun, make it not hard for me,by setting very soon:The tracks of Punhu let me seeere I in mountains die.
3
A rain is pouring from my brow,hot perspiration's stream;What I thought love, revealed is nowconsuming fire flame.-
4
The day is burning, she doth movenow swifter on her way;This Brahmin girl, an ancient lovefor the Bluchis has.
5
As long you live, aglow remain;there's no way without fire;In hot and cold, swift pace maintainthere is no time to rest.
6
On rising, thought of mountaineersdid overwhelm me there;I shall leave Bhambore, nought endearsthis Bhambore to my heart.
7
Sisters, for pleasures of Bhamborethe caravan I missed;Therefore I now with sorrow sorethe monutains have to search.
8
Sisters, your freedom do secureby leaving Bhambore now;Our old comrades here did enduremuch sorrow and much pain.
9
In Bhambore is the smoke of hell;Sisters, from Bhambore part-Sasui take the guide and startearly and not delay.-
10
Sisters, my heart is sorrow-cleft.and wounded I do live...Of loved-ones all, for whom I longalas, I am bereft;Can I forget those who have lefte'en now before my eyes?
11
Bhambore, the town of ugliness,the noble prince adorned;Lord of the mountains, from whole worldremoved fear and distress,Maids art of printing learnt, modelwas Punhu,s loveliness-Unrivalled one, Bhambore did blessand decent it became.-
12
The Bhambore that not walked behindthe Hoat, confounded got;Unrivalled One, the town did notrecognize, walked like blind;Those priviledge were, who did findhis beauty with their hearts.-
13
Who saw him with their hearts, did feelto follow him at once;When Punhu did himself conceale'en then they followed him.-
14
In hot and cold incessantlywalk on, and do not wait;At fall of night you will not seethe tracks of him you seek.
15
There was a time when princely Hoatmy clothes to wash did choose;Now even camelmen refuseto take me with themselves.
16
My gown is at my shoulders torn;alas my head is bare-O sisters in your Bhambore fairWhat have I now to do?
II
17
From grief and woe she did obtainthe lead, to walk the way;It was from guidance of the painshe Punhu found at last.-
18
A hundred comforts I will giveand bargain too my head,If in exchange I may insteada single sorrow get.
19
Sweet sorrow, do not you departas went away my love...To none I may pour out my heartbut you, since he has left.
20
Sorrow, joys' beauty constitute;joys without sorrows spurn;By virtue of such sorrow's moodmy love comes to my arms
21
We walk in fellowship with 'Care'but keep the world at bay-When even very young we were,sorrow made home with us.
III
22
Those who are seeking for the friend,one day the friend will find;The seeking ones will at the endreach loved-ones domicile.-
23
No more alive...or dead...yet deathI feel is claiming me...Beloved...I give up my breathin longing now for thee.-
24
Had you died yesterday, you'd metyour Punhu yesterday,All hale-and-hearty, never yetsucceeded finding love.
25
As soon or late I death must see;may I in mountains die...Sisters, so that my death should beon my Beloved's count.
26
Better in mountains cut and sore,striving for Punhu, die-That all the world for ever morethy love shall glorify.-
27
She follows in pursuit, calls, cries-but smiles when tracks she finds;Who turns one step back when she diesshall ne'er the loved-one see.-
28
As night advances, swifter growsher step and swifter still...Her innocent mind nothing knowsbut the word: "rider-spouse".
29
Don't cease to call persistently;keep calling, begging still-Then riding-men may suddenlyrelax, remembering thee.
30
To whate'er you in life adhere,Links after death remain;And those who cannot see Hoat hereHow will they see him 'there'?
O look not back! nor hesitate,for sun declines in West-Thy pace do quicken, do not restere sunrise try to reach
2
O sun, make it not hard for me,by setting very soon:The tracks of Punhu let me seeere I in mountains die.
3
A rain is pouring from my brow,hot perspiration's stream;What I thought love, revealed is nowconsuming fire flame.-
4
The day is burning, she doth movenow swifter on her way;This Brahmin girl, an ancient lovefor the Bluchis has.
5
As long you live, aglow remain;there's no way without fire;In hot and cold, swift pace maintainthere is no time to rest.
6
On rising, thought of mountaineersdid overwhelm me there;I shall leave Bhambore, nought endearsthis Bhambore to my heart.
7
Sisters, for pleasures of Bhamborethe caravan I missed;Therefore I now with sorrow sorethe monutains have to search.
8
Sisters, your freedom do secureby leaving Bhambore now;Our old comrades here did enduremuch sorrow and much pain.
9
In Bhambore is the smoke of hell;Sisters, from Bhambore part-Sasui take the guide and startearly and not delay.-
10
Sisters, my heart is sorrow-cleft.and wounded I do live...Of loved-ones all, for whom I longalas, I am bereft;Can I forget those who have lefte'en now before my eyes?
11
Bhambore, the town of ugliness,the noble prince adorned;Lord of the mountains, from whole worldremoved fear and distress,Maids art of printing learnt, modelwas Punhu,s loveliness-Unrivalled one, Bhambore did blessand decent it became.-
12
The Bhambore that not walked behindthe Hoat, confounded got;Unrivalled One, the town did notrecognize, walked like blind;Those priviledge were, who did findhis beauty with their hearts.-
13
Who saw him with their hearts, did feelto follow him at once;When Punhu did himself conceale'en then they followed him.-
14
In hot and cold incessantlywalk on, and do not wait;At fall of night you will not seethe tracks of him you seek.
15
There was a time when princely Hoatmy clothes to wash did choose;Now even camelmen refuseto take me with themselves.
16
My gown is at my shoulders torn;alas my head is bare-O sisters in your Bhambore fairWhat have I now to do?
II
17
From grief and woe she did obtainthe lead, to walk the way;It was from guidance of the painshe Punhu found at last.-
18
A hundred comforts I will giveand bargain too my head,If in exchange I may insteada single sorrow get.
19
Sweet sorrow, do not you departas went away my love...To none I may pour out my heartbut you, since he has left.
20
Sorrow, joys' beauty constitute;joys without sorrows spurn;By virtue of such sorrow's moodmy love comes to my arms
21
We walk in fellowship with 'Care'but keep the world at bay-When even very young we were,sorrow made home with us.
III
22
Those who are seeking for the friend,one day the friend will find;The seeking ones will at the endreach loved-ones domicile.-
23
No more alive...or dead...yet deathI feel is claiming me...Beloved...I give up my breathin longing now for thee.-
24
Had you died yesterday, you'd metyour Punhu yesterday,All hale-and-hearty, never yetsucceeded finding love.
25
As soon or late I death must see;may I in mountains die...Sisters, so that my death should beon my Beloved's count.
26
Better in mountains cut and sore,striving for Punhu, die-That all the world for ever morethy love shall glorify.-
27
She follows in pursuit, calls, cries-but smiles when tracks she finds;Who turns one step back when she diesshall ne'er the loved-one see.-
28
As night advances, swifter growsher step and swifter still...Her innocent mind nothing knowsbut the word: "rider-spouse".
29
Don't cease to call persistently;keep calling, begging still-Then riding-men may suddenlyrelax, remembering thee.
30
To whate'er you in life adhere,Links after death remain;And those who cannot see Hoat hereHow will they see him 'there'?
Shah Latif `s Poetry (Translated In Verse By: Elsa Kazi) Leela-XX
1
By jewels tempted, necklace brightyou craved,....so satam scores did cheat;You lost your spouse through his deceir-your era then of weo began.
2
The jewelis no jewel-nay,nor necklace worth to tempt your heart;Its origin is clay and bitsof glass it doth betray;Cursed trinket, in its fine arraymade many forme the loved-one part.-
3
Pendant of sorrow was, wath youa necklace though to be;Your lord decked your maid with gracewhich he forme you withdrew.May no dickord part lovers trueand union break in twain.-
4
By show she slipped....and by conceirshe fell, shattered was she;World came to her, called her a foolreproaches she did meet.They burnt her heart with scorn to death-her downfall was complete.-All her youth's blossoms, fragrant,sweetdried up with in her heart.
5
Exalted amongst friends; I wasthe wise one in the land;Something upset the balance-andnow I must hang my head.
6
I was in chanesar's domainfirst lady, and at social feastsFirst was I called, and always first,until my heart grew vain;He thrust me off..with shame and painnow lowest in the land I am.
7
With chanesar's affection let no waeton maiden play;No place for coquetry is this ilearnt to my regret-His disapproval doth begetsorrow for happy ones.
8
With zest, all lofry ones have decked,thier necks with diamonds fine;Hundred devices they employ before the loved-one to shine;But the beloved dose inclineto those who meekly walk.
9
Discard your former ways, be freefrom all you learnt before;Humility's scarf round your neckdo wear...with povertyDo link yourself, Leela, and seeHe'll never let you down.
10
Wise Leela, you have known so wellthe nature of your Lord...With diamonds round your neck, you thoughtto cast on him a spell.-In reading thoughts he does excelDiscerner He of hearts.
11
O God, let me not clever be,clever ones sorrows see-Loved-one all favours did to mewhen I was simpleton.
12
The meeting place of twon, Elitemy house was formerly-But when I diamonds touched, my spousedid loathe my very sight;All his affection vanished quiteand sorrow's reign commenced.-
13
The happiness that grows from mindself-centred, cursed it be;Unhappiness seek, which will findthe pricelesslove for thee!
14
Avoid to show off, argue notwith Chanesar.. beware-To you nor me beloneth Heand many more are there,Who once by Him much favoured wereand now weep at his door.-
15
Leela, if by beseeching HimHe won't forgive your fall-Keep on beseeching more all moreon his compassion call-Despair not, your pains he knows all-immense His mercy is.-
16
Despair not, rise and cleanse the house;prepare to sacrificeAncestors, 'Self' and all, there liesthe cleaning process true.-
By jewels tempted, necklace brightyou craved,....so satam scores did cheat;You lost your spouse through his deceir-your era then of weo began.
2
The jewelis no jewel-nay,nor necklace worth to tempt your heart;Its origin is clay and bitsof glass it doth betray;Cursed trinket, in its fine arraymade many forme the loved-one part.-
3
Pendant of sorrow was, wath youa necklace though to be;Your lord decked your maid with gracewhich he forme you withdrew.May no dickord part lovers trueand union break in twain.-
4
By show she slipped....and by conceirshe fell, shattered was she;World came to her, called her a foolreproaches she did meet.They burnt her heart with scorn to death-her downfall was complete.-All her youth's blossoms, fragrant,sweetdried up with in her heart.
5
Exalted amongst friends; I wasthe wise one in the land;Something upset the balance-andnow I must hang my head.
6
I was in chanesar's domainfirst lady, and at social feastsFirst was I called, and always first,until my heart grew vain;He thrust me off..with shame and painnow lowest in the land I am.
7
With chanesar's affection let no waeton maiden play;No place for coquetry is this ilearnt to my regret-His disapproval doth begetsorrow for happy ones.
8
With zest, all lofry ones have decked,thier necks with diamonds fine;Hundred devices they employ before the loved-one to shine;But the beloved dose inclineto those who meekly walk.
9
Discard your former ways, be freefrom all you learnt before;Humility's scarf round your neckdo wear...with povertyDo link yourself, Leela, and seeHe'll never let you down.
10
Wise Leela, you have known so wellthe nature of your Lord...With diamonds round your neck, you thoughtto cast on him a spell.-In reading thoughts he does excelDiscerner He of hearts.
11
O God, let me not clever be,clever ones sorrows see-Loved-one all favours did to mewhen I was simpleton.
12
The meeting place of twon, Elitemy house was formerly-But when I diamonds touched, my spousedid loathe my very sight;All his affection vanished quiteand sorrow's reign commenced.-
13
The happiness that grows from mindself-centred, cursed it be;Unhappiness seek, which will findthe pricelesslove for thee!
14
Avoid to show off, argue notwith Chanesar.. beware-To you nor me beloneth Heand many more are there,Who once by Him much favoured wereand now weep at his door.-
15
Leela, if by beseeching HimHe won't forgive your fall-Keep on beseeching more all moreon his compassion call-Despair not, your pains he knows all-immense His mercy is.-
16
Despair not, rise and cleanse the house;prepare to sacrificeAncestors, 'Self' and all, there liesthe cleaning process true.-
Shah Latif `s Poetry (Translated In Verse By: Elsa Kazi) Mumal and Rano-XXI
1
With love, all unalloyed, is dightYogi entirely-Like image at rising sunhe flutters, he Kak, where with delightvirgins enlivened him.
2
The yogi looks like sun so fair,when scaling morning-skiesSuch sweet entrancing fragrance poursfrom out his silken hair;Show us the land, where fragrance rareO yogi you obtained!
3
O loin-clothed, one, let us know,the way you virgins metWhy from your eyes continuouslythe tears of blood do flow?O Sami! on us light bestowof beauty that you found!
4
"Go, go, to waters of Kak gowhere love is made, they say;Where there is neither night nor dayall shall Beloved see!
5
Resplendent diamondss gleam within Magnetic Mumal's eyes...Common or uncommon, who triesto see these eyes, is slain.
6
O camel, for such enterprisemaster bred you with care;With vigilance cross over nowto where Ludhana lies;Mumal we have to face this eve,or when the sun doth rise;With her consent on Kak's suppliesof blossoms you may browse.-
7
Beautiful like the roses sweetare robes of damsels fair...In Jasmin-fragrant coiffuers theyhave piled their long, fine hair.From Beauty so entrancing, loveis kindled everywhere;Wondrous show, damsels spinning thereon-lookers dumb-struck gaze.
8
Like fresh pan-leaves are shawls they wearof shimmering emerald silk-Their bodies all refreshed with atterand ambergris rare;From fullsome platis sandle and muskperfume all round the air;And delicate ears, dainty wareof glistening gold do hold-Today Mumal's in glorious fromrejoicing, free from care;Because Rano without compare,her fiansee hath become!...
9
Mumal had wounded many, loshe's wounded now instead-A pointed arrow struck her headfrom knightly Rano's bow.-
II
10
Although Rano not destined isMumal to be with thee-This will be clear from Rano's love...still not resentful be,Weep not, but bear it patiently,Be true to kinship new.
11
Kak could not hold those wanderersCastles not tempt their mind...No maid or mistresses their heartswith magic strings could bindFor e'er Lahutis left behindmyraids of maids as these.-
12
Kak could not hold those wanderersfor wealth they did not care,-It was by men of such a mouldroyal virgins wounded were-Lahutis they could not ensnarewith all their coquetry.
13
They passed Kak at the corner, longthat corner turned have they...To those who are now far awaywhat shall some 'Natir' do?
III
14
Ludhana is a hell merewithout Beloved mine;Friends, Rano took offence last nightand left me torture here...And Kak to me is poison sheerthe moment he is gone.
15
O Rano, hardly had you come,you turned and went awayBut were you not my spouse? why notto wake me did you stay?Then soon you would have known who laybeside me on the bed.
16
Whole night my lamp did burn, but seethe dawn is breaking now;Rano without thee I shall die-In God's name come to meOh-all the crows of Kak to theeas messenger I sent.-
17
I trimmed the wick, again, again,oil is consumed at lastStranger-beloved, do returnriding a camel fast;Weeping for Rano, night is past,the whole of night I wept.
18
Orion stands above my head;pleiades have declined...The time is past...he did not comeRano, for whom I pined-Fie on cursed night, without my loveit passed, and left me woe-confined-To give me hell, he did not mindnow rests he in his dhat.-
19
Rano, I weep when I beholdthe empty places hereDust settled on beds and divansso drab looks all and cold;Unused by master pillows lie,and nought but dust they hold-Without you, trees and flowers fadeand never more unfold...Who would bear my freaks mainfoldbut my Mendharo dear?
20
Continuously I watch your way,mine eyes are at the door-May you come back to me Rano,I heaven do implore;You hold my life, else many moreof Rano's world contains.
21
I did not realize my sweet,the faults I did commit;They now recoil on me, and hitme justly in the face.
22
't was by your patience, I becamea human being dear-'t was through a whim of mine, my name,myself, you came to know.
23
If Mendharo to my own housewould come as guest, to stay with me-To flames I'd give self-consciousnessmy knowledge and my ancestry;Pride egoism I would throwInto the stove, most certainlyMy sacrifice for loved-one bethe home, parents, myself.
24
Who with a lion doth allyherself, must steady be-Affectionate and vigilantIn Rano's wake do lie-O Mumal, not like rain do pourOn all that you come by...When resurrection day is nighyou will of Rano think.
25
Go straight ahead, and look not backnor turn this side or that,Or else, a temple-turning smackunwar'ly you receive.
IV
26
A messenger! in haste he isBy he is sent;With promise: "one you love will reachLudhana for your bliss;The speedy camel will not missto enter Kak at Dawn."
27
A message great and new arrivedfrom Mendharo last night;We have received a gift divine,from Giver of all light-"Ask not for caste-all we inviteall are accepted here."
28
Where need I drive the camel? whenGlory all round is beaming?Kak in my being doth radiate,In me's Ludhano gleaming;Of Rano sweet my soul is dreamingthere is none else but 'He'.-
29
Where need one drive the camel? whengreat radiance reigns all round?In my being is Kak...in megardens and springs abound;There is no other voice or soundBut all is 'Mendharo'.
With love, all unalloyed, is dightYogi entirely-Like image at rising sunhe flutters, he Kak, where with delightvirgins enlivened him.
2
The yogi looks like sun so fair,when scaling morning-skiesSuch sweet entrancing fragrance poursfrom out his silken hair;Show us the land, where fragrance rareO yogi you obtained!
3
O loin-clothed, one, let us know,the way you virgins metWhy from your eyes continuouslythe tears of blood do flow?O Sami! on us light bestowof beauty that you found!
4
"Go, go, to waters of Kak gowhere love is made, they say;Where there is neither night nor dayall shall Beloved see!
5
Resplendent diamondss gleam within Magnetic Mumal's eyes...Common or uncommon, who triesto see these eyes, is slain.
6
O camel, for such enterprisemaster bred you with care;With vigilance cross over nowto where Ludhana lies;Mumal we have to face this eve,or when the sun doth rise;With her consent on Kak's suppliesof blossoms you may browse.-
7
Beautiful like the roses sweetare robes of damsels fair...In Jasmin-fragrant coiffuers theyhave piled their long, fine hair.From Beauty so entrancing, loveis kindled everywhere;Wondrous show, damsels spinning thereon-lookers dumb-struck gaze.
8
Like fresh pan-leaves are shawls they wearof shimmering emerald silk-Their bodies all refreshed with atterand ambergris rare;From fullsome platis sandle and muskperfume all round the air;And delicate ears, dainty wareof glistening gold do hold-Today Mumal's in glorious fromrejoicing, free from care;Because Rano without compare,her fiansee hath become!...
9
Mumal had wounded many, loshe's wounded now instead-A pointed arrow struck her headfrom knightly Rano's bow.-
II
10
Although Rano not destined isMumal to be with thee-This will be clear from Rano's love...still not resentful be,Weep not, but bear it patiently,Be true to kinship new.
11
Kak could not hold those wanderersCastles not tempt their mind...No maid or mistresses their heartswith magic strings could bindFor e'er Lahutis left behindmyraids of maids as these.-
12
Kak could not hold those wanderersfor wealth they did not care,-It was by men of such a mouldroyal virgins wounded were-Lahutis they could not ensnarewith all their coquetry.
13
They passed Kak at the corner, longthat corner turned have they...To those who are now far awaywhat shall some 'Natir' do?
III
14
Ludhana is a hell merewithout Beloved mine;Friends, Rano took offence last nightand left me torture here...And Kak to me is poison sheerthe moment he is gone.
15
O Rano, hardly had you come,you turned and went awayBut were you not my spouse? why notto wake me did you stay?Then soon you would have known who laybeside me on the bed.
16
Whole night my lamp did burn, but seethe dawn is breaking now;Rano without thee I shall die-In God's name come to meOh-all the crows of Kak to theeas messenger I sent.-
17
I trimmed the wick, again, again,oil is consumed at lastStranger-beloved, do returnriding a camel fast;Weeping for Rano, night is past,the whole of night I wept.
18
Orion stands above my head;pleiades have declined...The time is past...he did not comeRano, for whom I pined-Fie on cursed night, without my loveit passed, and left me woe-confined-To give me hell, he did not mindnow rests he in his dhat.-
19
Rano, I weep when I beholdthe empty places hereDust settled on beds and divansso drab looks all and cold;Unused by master pillows lie,and nought but dust they hold-Without you, trees and flowers fadeand never more unfold...Who would bear my freaks mainfoldbut my Mendharo dear?
20
Continuously I watch your way,mine eyes are at the door-May you come back to me Rano,I heaven do implore;You hold my life, else many moreof Rano's world contains.
21
I did not realize my sweet,the faults I did commit;They now recoil on me, and hitme justly in the face.
22
't was by your patience, I becamea human being dear-'t was through a whim of mine, my name,myself, you came to know.
23
If Mendharo to my own housewould come as guest, to stay with me-To flames I'd give self-consciousnessmy knowledge and my ancestry;Pride egoism I would throwInto the stove, most certainlyMy sacrifice for loved-one bethe home, parents, myself.
24
Who with a lion doth allyherself, must steady be-Affectionate and vigilantIn Rano's wake do lie-O Mumal, not like rain do pourOn all that you come by...When resurrection day is nighyou will of Rano think.
25
Go straight ahead, and look not backnor turn this side or that,Or else, a temple-turning smackunwar'ly you receive.
IV
26
A messenger! in haste he isBy he is sent;With promise: "one you love will reachLudhana for your bliss;The speedy camel will not missto enter Kak at Dawn."
27
A message great and new arrivedfrom Mendharo last night;We have received a gift divine,from Giver of all light-"Ask not for caste-all we inviteall are accepted here."
28
Where need I drive the camel? whenGlory all round is beaming?Kak in my being doth radiate,In me's Ludhano gleaming;Of Rano sweet my soul is dreamingthere is none else but 'He'.-
29
Where need one drive the camel? whengreat radiance reigns all round?In my being is Kak...in megardens and springs abound;There is no other voice or soundBut all is 'Mendharo'.
Shah Latif `s Poetry (Translated In Verse By: Elsa Kazi) Barwo Sindhi-XXII (Beloved)
1
O say, to what end you to otherswould a servant be?Of Gen'rous one hold stirrup, Lordof worlds and Destiny?Who loves Allah alone, but hesupremely happy is!
2
A reed doth murmur with distresswhen cut , so even ICry suddenly for loved-one ina fit of wretchedness;-O leech, brand not my arm, sicknessand pain are in the heart!
3
My breath no longer is my own-ruled now by other power-How is my breast assailed by woethat has a mountain grown?My love, in dream Himself had shown,brought joy, and then had gone!
4
When longing for you in despair,Loved-one if once you came-My eye lashes upon your feetI'd lay in humblest prayerI'd for your carpet spread my hairand be your slave for aye!5
Beloved, all from thee is good!but still, 't was not thy way,To take me mad with love and thendepart with changing mood;And let me die in solitude,e'en though you loved me not!
II
6
Today again mine eyes are drenched,remembering the loved one-The drops of tear ne'er cease to flow,till all my being,s blenched;Longing for loved-one is not quenchedby looking at His works!
7
Today they called, with eyes so kind;and killed me with their eyes...My flesh they distributed andleft skeleton behind-Did urge to search for truth and practicepatience in the mind;They killed her whom they dead did findaft'r wounding with smiles!
8
Sometimes their doors with latches tied,On other days wide open are;Some days I cannot enter, somethey call me with them to abide-Sometimes I for their voices long;some days their secrets they confide;Such are my masters glorified,beloved masters mine!
9
O you, my dear beloved Sir,thy slave I wholly am;With folded hands I ever serve,thy presence I desire;Not for a minute from your doorO sir, I would retire,I pray; Beloved do not tire-Thy kind looks not withdraw!
10
When with infinite grace, BelovedDoth walk upon the ground;With "Bismillah" earth on His pathprints kisses all around-The 'houris' by His beauty struckstand with submission bound-I swear, that never I have foundsuch Beauty any where!
11
As smith a link with link doth jointo make it ever last,So Loved-one fixed me up, and fastHe holds me ever more!
III
12
The worlds os passing soon or late,one breath it is, not long;And with their feet they'll bury youa tomb will be your fate;The measuring rod and spade, do waitas last things on this earth.-
13
Friendship by words they do profess;an easy thing to do;The proof will come when need and stressthe real friends will reveal.
14
Changed Adam's children now do treatsincerity as trifle;Who on this earth a human being'sflesh would like to cat?O friend in this world nothing willremain but perfume sweet,One single-minded you may meetall else is outward show!
15
The heart loves only One and moreit never doth admit;Give your heart to that One, evenIf hundreds sue for it;Ridiculous are those that flitfor friends from door to door!
16
My loved ones, all my blemishes...weaknesses came to know;They never did reproach me...nay,nor did they anger show-Loved-ones a covering did bestowo'er all my shortcoming!
17
The Generous One, presence of loved oneskindly granted me-Their thoughts were to return and re-establish harmony;Their way is: though a breech there bethey never will forsake.
O say, to what end you to otherswould a servant be?Of Gen'rous one hold stirrup, Lordof worlds and Destiny?Who loves Allah alone, but hesupremely happy is!
2
A reed doth murmur with distresswhen cut , so even ICry suddenly for loved-one ina fit of wretchedness;-O leech, brand not my arm, sicknessand pain are in the heart!
3
My breath no longer is my own-ruled now by other power-How is my breast assailed by woethat has a mountain grown?My love, in dream Himself had shown,brought joy, and then had gone!
4
When longing for you in despair,Loved-one if once you came-My eye lashes upon your feetI'd lay in humblest prayerI'd for your carpet spread my hairand be your slave for aye!5
Beloved, all from thee is good!but still, 't was not thy way,To take me mad with love and thendepart with changing mood;And let me die in solitude,e'en though you loved me not!
II
6
Today again mine eyes are drenched,remembering the loved one-The drops of tear ne'er cease to flow,till all my being,s blenched;Longing for loved-one is not quenchedby looking at His works!
7
Today they called, with eyes so kind;and killed me with their eyes...My flesh they distributed andleft skeleton behind-Did urge to search for truth and practicepatience in the mind;They killed her whom they dead did findaft'r wounding with smiles!
8
Sometimes their doors with latches tied,On other days wide open are;Some days I cannot enter, somethey call me with them to abide-Sometimes I for their voices long;some days their secrets they confide;Such are my masters glorified,beloved masters mine!
9
O you, my dear beloved Sir,thy slave I wholly am;With folded hands I ever serve,thy presence I desire;Not for a minute from your doorO sir, I would retire,I pray; Beloved do not tire-Thy kind looks not withdraw!
10
When with infinite grace, BelovedDoth walk upon the ground;With "Bismillah" earth on His pathprints kisses all around-The 'houris' by His beauty struckstand with submission bound-I swear, that never I have foundsuch Beauty any where!
11
As smith a link with link doth jointo make it ever last,So Loved-one fixed me up, and fastHe holds me ever more!
III
12
The worlds os passing soon or late,one breath it is, not long;And with their feet they'll bury youa tomb will be your fate;The measuring rod and spade, do waitas last things on this earth.-
13
Friendship by words they do profess;an easy thing to do;The proof will come when need and stressthe real friends will reveal.
14
Changed Adam's children now do treatsincerity as trifle;Who on this earth a human being'sflesh would like to cat?O friend in this world nothing willremain but perfume sweet,One single-minded you may meetall else is outward show!
15
The heart loves only One and moreit never doth admit;Give your heart to that One, evenIf hundreds sue for it;Ridiculous are those that flitfor friends from door to door!
16
My loved ones, all my blemishes...weaknesses came to know;They never did reproach me...nay,nor did they anger show-Loved-ones a covering did bestowo'er all my shortcoming!
17
The Generous One, presence of loved oneskindly granted me-Their thoughts were to return and re-establish harmony;Their way is: though a breech there bethey never will forsake.
Shah Latif `s Poetry (Translated In Verse By: Elsa Kazi) Dahar-XXIII (Desert)
1
Relate to us some tale, O thorn;tale of this lake relate;Of moonlit-nights that did adornthe place, and how you fared.
2
Be calm, and tell us what you knowof keepers of this lake.Today in wretched plight and woedifficult days you pass.
3
Did realy all thy friends depart?thy loving associates?-With crimson fruit thou laden artthat fall all over thee.-
4
If for the masters of this lake,you would such sorrow feel,How could you lovely blossoms makeand such a wealth of friut?
5
The lake is dry, and brushwood growsabout the dusty banks;And human being rarely showshis face about the place.
II
6
When waters ran abundantlybig fish, you wouldn't return;Today, tomorrow you will bein net of fishing-folk.
7
O fish, you grew so over-fat,Butting against all that you met;Expanse of water now hath set-Dried is what once you saw.-
8
"Into my heart their hook they thrust-the very flesh they cleft,They did not kill right-out, but leftperpetual sorrow's line."
9
As great as is 'Thy' name, so greatthe mercy I implore-Without pillars without supports,thou my refuge e'er more-When Thou knowst everything beforeah me...why should I ask?
10
Beloved, do not slacken thouThy ties with humble me;One so contemptible has gotno other hold but thee...Only thy sweet name, verilyI know and remember.
III
11
Few nights of earth...o'er which your headyou lost Oh simpleton...Oh many more will come, when deadyou quite alone will lie.-
12
Sleeper arise! akin to sinIs such a none can winBy sleeping recklessly.-
IV
13
In the mountain there is chatter-cranes are wanting to go out;They discussed last night the matter and this morning they are gone.
14
Have you then forgotten quiteand their talk you never heardWhen preparing, they last nightHad decided to depart.-
15
Oh my crane, your flock has gone-it departed yesterday-Ah, without loved-one, alonewhat will you in mountains do.
16
They in conveys travel ever,their connections never cut-Not like man their kinship sever,Oh, behold the loving birds.
17
O man, at dawn what glitters brighttake not for drops of dew.But seeing sorrowing ones, the nightBurst into thousand tears.
18
Trouble will come to those, who doIn 'face' and 'from' delight-Fools laugh and laugh, forgetting quitethe task that they came for.
19
Degenerates enamoured wereOf forth,...milk tasted not,They lost 'Direction' through world's shareand empty-handed went.
20
Today a bridegroom gay and strong-tomorrow lies in grave;Building a fort of sand...how longwill you be builing still.
Relate to us some tale, O thorn;tale of this lake relate;Of moonlit-nights that did adornthe place, and how you fared.
2
Be calm, and tell us what you knowof keepers of this lake.Today in wretched plight and woedifficult days you pass.
3
Did realy all thy friends depart?thy loving associates?-With crimson fruit thou laden artthat fall all over thee.-
4
If for the masters of this lake,you would such sorrow feel,How could you lovely blossoms makeand such a wealth of friut?
5
The lake is dry, and brushwood growsabout the dusty banks;And human being rarely showshis face about the place.
II
6
When waters ran abundantlybig fish, you wouldn't return;Today, tomorrow you will bein net of fishing-folk.
7
O fish, you grew so over-fat,Butting against all that you met;Expanse of water now hath set-Dried is what once you saw.-
8
"Into my heart their hook they thrust-the very flesh they cleft,They did not kill right-out, but leftperpetual sorrow's line."
9
As great as is 'Thy' name, so greatthe mercy I implore-Without pillars without supports,thou my refuge e'er more-When Thou knowst everything beforeah me...why should I ask?
10
Beloved, do not slacken thouThy ties with humble me;One so contemptible has gotno other hold but thee...Only thy sweet name, verilyI know and remember.
III
11
Few nights of earth...o'er which your headyou lost Oh simpleton...Oh many more will come, when deadyou quite alone will lie.-
12
Sleeper arise! akin to sinIs such a none can winBy sleeping recklessly.-
IV
13
In the mountain there is chatter-cranes are wanting to go out;They discussed last night the matter and this morning they are gone.
14
Have you then forgotten quiteand their talk you never heardWhen preparing, they last nightHad decided to depart.-
15
Oh my crane, your flock has gone-it departed yesterday-Ah, without loved-one, alonewhat will you in mountains do.
16
They in conveys travel ever,their connections never cut-Not like man their kinship sever,Oh, behold the loving birds.
17
O man, at dawn what glitters brighttake not for drops of dew.But seeing sorrowing ones, the nightBurst into thousand tears.
18
Trouble will come to those, who doIn 'face' and 'from' delight-Fools laugh and laugh, forgetting quitethe task that they came for.
19
Degenerates enamoured wereOf forth,...milk tasted not,They lost 'Direction' through world's shareand empty-handed went.
20
Today a bridegroom gay and strong-tomorrow lies in grave;Building a fort of sand...how longwill you be builing still.
Shah Latif `s Poetry (Translated In Verse By: Elsa Kazi) Ghatu-XXIV (Shark-Hunters)
1
Even the wise confounded gotand heroes lost their wits-Those who went out to face the sea,were caught by current's plot;Of "Ebb and tide", they all forgotwhat they had learnt before.
2
A power weird is in Kalach,lost is who enters there;No one brings news who does ens'narethe nets and keeps them down.
3
To Kalachi but yesterdaybrave men went forth with spears;Late were the brothers...none returned,nought more of them one hears.Whirlpools have swallowed them one fears-the fishers all are dead.
4
Where fishers used to seek the fish,the barren sand-dunes lie;Fish-sellers ruined, the river dry;and tax collector gone
5
Had they been near, they would have come;perchance too far they got-Fisher folk saw their haunts, called outto know about their lot...Alas, resonse received they notand sadly they returned.-
6
The bazar is without fish-smell,while market formerlyWith small carps, and with herrings tooabundantly did swell.Now there is not a shrimp to sellbuyers have empty hands.
7
You throw the nets in creeks...not sothe sharks are ever killed;Possess strong sweep nets that you throwin deepest sea below;-Sharks not to shallow waters go,and depths are far ahead.
8
To enter sea, prepare your ropes;strengthen them bit by bit--Relationship do not befitKalachi fishermen!
9Shark hunter's 'moob', that is the waya victory to reap-Their eagerness for whirlpools, andtheir longing for the deep,Deprives them every night of sleep-they yearn to kill the shark.
10
In search, they into whirlpools gotand to fathomlessness...They killed the shark; with hapinessnow beam fishermen's eyes.
Shah Latif `s Poetry (Translated In Verse By: Elsa Kazi) Kapaitie-XXV (Spinner)
1
Although a spinner, not dependupon yourself entirely;The knowing buyer faults at endmay find within your thread.
2
As long as you can spin, spin on,work-season soon declines;All spinners are...but work of allis not in favour lines-She ne'er breaks thread, nor for rest pineswho has realized the truth.
3
This phase will end so soon, as long,you acn spin, spinning keep-For your Eid do prepare a workof art, and success reap.That scorching tears you may not weep'midst your girl friends tomorrow.
4
Toil on and feel not proud, or elseyour Lord offended be-The wheel turn...round your neck hang scarfOf sweet humility...You little faulty one-then seeyour work is not in vain.
II
5
When connoisseurs arrived, they found,the flaws that did not please.They called to spinner...in their waythey asked: "How made you these?""Untidy I, have failed to teasethe lumps from out the yarn."-
6
With rancour in their hearts, althoughwith fine yarn spools they fill,Not even an ounce the expert willOf their product accept.-
7
Wondrous devotion spinners have,who tremble, spin and spin;For earning good, in spinning yardat sun-rise they begin-Such soul-beauty the connoisseurseven for themselves would winYarn spun by spinners so genuinewithout weighing they buy.-
III
8
Who in themselves the cotton thrashtheir thread,s without compeer;The 'whirr' of spinning wheel, they wouldnot let their life's breath hear,-Secretly, tremlingly they goon spinning so sincere-Those that refuse the jewels here,priceless themselves they are.
9
Now yesterday you did not spin-Today you have no time to spend;...You silly one, how long the friendshall overlook your faults?
10
The spinners, spinning, spinning were-but now not one I spy-Spinning wheels in disorder lie,and sitting huts are closed.-
11
I neither see same cotton-podsnor spinners are the same-So empty the bazar becometo see it, breaks my hearts!
12
Wool in my tunic, I proceedto spinning-yard...alas,No single spinner breathing wasthey'd gone to sleep for aye.
Although a spinner, not dependupon yourself entirely;The knowing buyer faults at endmay find within your thread.
2
As long as you can spin, spin on,work-season soon declines;All spinners are...but work of allis not in favour lines-She ne'er breaks thread, nor for rest pineswho has realized the truth.
3
This phase will end so soon, as long,you acn spin, spinning keep-For your Eid do prepare a workof art, and success reap.That scorching tears you may not weep'midst your girl friends tomorrow.
4
Toil on and feel not proud, or elseyour Lord offended be-The wheel turn...round your neck hang scarfOf sweet humility...You little faulty one-then seeyour work is not in vain.
II
5
When connoisseurs arrived, they found,the flaws that did not please.They called to spinner...in their waythey asked: "How made you these?""Untidy I, have failed to teasethe lumps from out the yarn."-
6
With rancour in their hearts, althoughwith fine yarn spools they fill,Not even an ounce the expert willOf their product accept.-
7
Wondrous devotion spinners have,who tremble, spin and spin;For earning good, in spinning yardat sun-rise they begin-Such soul-beauty the connoisseurseven for themselves would winYarn spun by spinners so genuinewithout weighing they buy.-
III
8
Who in themselves the cotton thrashtheir thread,s without compeer;The 'whirr' of spinning wheel, they wouldnot let their life's breath hear,-Secretly, tremlingly they goon spinning so sincere-Those that refuse the jewels here,priceless themselves they are.
9
Now yesterday you did not spin-Today you have no time to spend;...You silly one, how long the friendshall overlook your faults?
10
The spinners, spinning, spinning were-but now not one I spy-Spinning wheels in disorder lie,and sitting huts are closed.-
11
I neither see same cotton-podsnor spinners are the same-So empty the bazar becometo see it, breaks my hearts!
12
Wool in my tunic, I proceedto spinning-yard...alas,No single spinner breathing wasthey'd gone to sleep for aye.
Shah Latif `s Poetry (Translated In Verse By: Elsa Kazi) Rippa-XXVI (Calamity)
1
O mother, sorrow's harrowinghas swamped my whole being-All honour to the sorrowingwho walk on uphill way.
2
My love took joy and health from me;sorrow my mate became;Mother, my fate destruction bethus parted from my love.
3
Sorrows have neither hands nor feet,yet wildly run through me-Within they travel in dense rowsnought can their rage defeat,Oh, who in loneliness completewould without loved-one live?
4
Dry ground gives rise to growth, in rain,the same with me it is...From separation growth of painand sorrow issue forth.
II
5
The mind awake doth never stay,although with scorn I keep it reined-With dust gets covered all the dayjust like a road-side tree.
6
When I lay waking on my bed,Loved-one's favours stirred memory;My pillow got all wet with tearshand too, on which did lie my headMemory kept on...with pain I said:"Sisters, my life is all in vain.-"
7
Mine eyes don't sleep, their drowsinessnow all but broken is;When fires dull, mem'ry's distressmakes flames shoot up again.
8
Rememb'ring your kindness, I live...favours endless I count,Numberless graces you did giveBeloved, to poor me!
9
For outside clouds I need not care,rain ever pours within;Beloved's clouds are everywhereon my horizons here.
10
Desiring to forget, I groan,and yet I can't forget-Longing hurts like a broken bonesharp and continuously.
III
11
Weep secretly, and not disclosethrough tears your wretched state;And all the sorrows bear, still thosearrive who pains remove.
12
O hide your love, as potters dothat cover up the kiln-Free fire cannot bake a pot,the potters' ways pursue;As potters do with kiln, so youmust ne'er uncover fire.
O mother, sorrow's harrowinghas swamped my whole being-All honour to the sorrowingwho walk on uphill way.
2
My love took joy and health from me;sorrow my mate became;Mother, my fate destruction bethus parted from my love.
3
Sorrows have neither hands nor feet,yet wildly run through me-Within they travel in dense rowsnought can their rage defeat,Oh, who in loneliness completewould without loved-one live?
4
Dry ground gives rise to growth, in rain,the same with me it is...From separation growth of painand sorrow issue forth.
II
5
The mind awake doth never stay,although with scorn I keep it reined-With dust gets covered all the dayjust like a road-side tree.
6
When I lay waking on my bed,Loved-one's favours stirred memory;My pillow got all wet with tearshand too, on which did lie my headMemory kept on...with pain I said:"Sisters, my life is all in vain.-"
7
Mine eyes don't sleep, their drowsinessnow all but broken is;When fires dull, mem'ry's distressmakes flames shoot up again.
8
Rememb'ring your kindness, I live...favours endless I count,Numberless graces you did giveBeloved, to poor me!
9
For outside clouds I need not care,rain ever pours within;Beloved's clouds are everywhereon my horizons here.
10
Desiring to forget, I groan,and yet I can't forget-Longing hurts like a broken bonesharp and continuously.
III
11
Weep secretly, and not disclosethrough tears your wretched state;And all the sorrows bear, still thosearrive who pains remove.
12
O hide your love, as potters dothat cover up the kiln-Free fire cannot bake a pot,the potters' ways pursue;As potters do with kiln, so youmust ne'er uncover fire.
Shah Latif `s Poetry (Translated In Verse By: Elsa Kazi) Karayal-XXVII (The Swan)
1
The root of Lotus flower fairin deepest waters grows-High soars the humble-bee, but fatetheir in most wishesknows.Through love, fulfilment it bestows,and makes the lovers meet.
2
The swan that shunned the cormorantsnow spreads its wings, to flyTo heavens high! so to descryfountains where his love dewells.
3
Now from the height, the deepest depthhis eye doth pierce, to findThe things to which he is inclined,the tiny shining bits.
II
4
Why not you enter depths and diveFor bits, rejoicing thereMy swan, why for the banks you care;no use have banks for thee.
5
These waters by the cormorantspolluted, soiled they were-Swans are ashamed to enter thereand never venture near.
7
O foolish swan! with cormorantsdo not keep company;But change the dirty waters, seekthe clean ones speedily...Or else you'll drink one day...may bewith herons of the swamps.
8
Why do you hang about the banksor by the roadside hide?To meadows broad of 'Oneness' go,plan no escape, abide,And find the lake of love, to floatin its refreshing tide-Of secrets hum, of Reality-With fellow swans reside;With recognition true your heartcleanse, and be purified-Inspired by the guide, pick grains,and sing, by nought defied;So that you never on this sidebird-hunter may behold.
9
O swan! come to clear waters, whereyou are remembered still-The hunters here are out to killand they are after you!
10
the swans divine are those who pickthe pearls from waters pure;They never soil their beaks with mud;some fishes to secure;In crowds of cormorants, obscureThey are...world knows them not.
III
11
The lakes are same, but different birdsnow in their waters lave...Ah... those with graceful necks, who gavesweet songs, flew far away.
12
The lovely peacocks all are dead,and not one swan I see...Instead the crafty snipes...ah mehave here their homeland made.
The root of Lotus flower fairin deepest waters grows-High soars the humble-bee, but fatetheir in most wishesknows.Through love, fulfilment it bestows,and makes the lovers meet.
2
The swan that shunned the cormorantsnow spreads its wings, to flyTo heavens high! so to descryfountains where his love dewells.
3
Now from the height, the deepest depthhis eye doth pierce, to findThe things to which he is inclined,the tiny shining bits.
II
4
Why not you enter depths and diveFor bits, rejoicing thereMy swan, why for the banks you care;no use have banks for thee.
5
These waters by the cormorantspolluted, soiled they were-Swans are ashamed to enter thereand never venture near.
7
O foolish swan! with cormorantsdo not keep company;But change the dirty waters, seekthe clean ones speedily...Or else you'll drink one day...may bewith herons of the swamps.
8
Why do you hang about the banksor by the roadside hide?To meadows broad of 'Oneness' go,plan no escape, abide,And find the lake of love, to floatin its refreshing tide-Of secrets hum, of Reality-With fellow swans reside;With recognition true your heartcleanse, and be purified-Inspired by the guide, pick grains,and sing, by nought defied;So that you never on this sidebird-hunter may behold.
9
O swan! come to clear waters, whereyou are remembered still-The hunters here are out to killand they are after you!
10
the swans divine are those who pickthe pearls from waters pure;They never soil their beaks with mud;some fishes to secure;In crowds of cormorants, obscureThey are...world knows them not.
III
11
The lakes are same, but different birdsnow in their waters lave...Ah... those with graceful necks, who gavesweet songs, flew far away.
12
The lovely peacocks all are dead,and not one swan I see...Instead the crafty snipes...ah mehave here their homeland made.
Shah Latif `s Poetry (Translated In Verse By: Elsa Kazi) Marui-XXVIII
Marui-XXVIII
1
When 'Be' was not yet said, nor wasthere flesh-bone scheme or plan;When Adam had not yet receivedhis form, was not yet man;Then my relationship began,my recognition too.
2
"Am I not thy Lord?" came a voice;a voice so sweet and clear;And I said: "yes" with all my heartwhen I this voice did hear;And with a bond I did adherethat moment to my love
3
Ere God created souls, by saying;"Be",-all one they were;Together were they-and beholdmy kinship started there-I still this recognition bearwith thee, Beloved mine.-
II
4
A prisoner I by destiny...or who would want, these forts"We nearer than thy life's vein are"to that home I will flee-When will I be from mansions freeand reach my Maru sweet?
5
I'll burn these houses...Mansions tallthat shorn of loved-ones are-"All things return to their origin"that's my longing's call;May I walk home, away from alland see my land 'malir'.
6
No news, no dream vouchsafed to meno messenger doth come;From 'there to here', there's no reply,no answer to my plea-Princes, I know not what must beaccounts you did render.
7
O God, do send the messengerwho will my message bear-I do belong to them, althoughto own me they don't care...I hold the pen within my hand,may some one paper spare;Tears check my writing, in despairO'er pen they fall and fall.
8
Scores of patches my bodice shows,my head with rags is decked-I to my people hoped to goand all robes did reject;My shawl from Dhat, may God protectits virtue to hide my shame.
9
In the condition that I came,could I return in same-What glory, like a seasonal rainwhat joy would I reclaim.
10
Amighty God, let it not bethat I in bondage dieEnchained my body night and day,doth weep in misery-O let me first my homeland seeand then my days let end.
11
O where is my distinction gone?my beauty and my grace?My homeland I can never seekin this condition base;If beauty granted be then faceI dare Beloved one.
12
Omar, my face so dirty is,my beauty now is done;And yet, I have to go where nonewithout beauty's received.
III
13
Fair Marui does not wash her hair,She does not smile or eat,On Omar's justice relies shewho robbed her freedom sweet;-"The havoc you have wrought, you'll meetat your arrival 'there'."
14
Fair Marui does not wash her hair,clotted it is, uglyThe nomad folks of desert landlive in her memory-"Omar, parted from them, unfreeI'll ne'er in forts reside."
15
Fair Marui does not wash her hair,for Malir longeth she...Only when prince doth set her freebalance restored will be...Whole desert will drink milk, for gleewhen 'trust' is safe returned.
16
There is no force to make them pine,-no taxes in their land,They gather lovely flowers redfor mangers of their kine-Malir with lustrous smiles doth shinethere priceless marus are.
17
Loved-one I never can forget;my mind with him is filled-Nothing you see is like Him, soto sight he does not yield;Because, loved-one His house has builtin negativity.-
18
Omar, for me your mansions granda double torture are;Here you torment me...there, so farloved-ones accuse me too.
19
To Maru needle joined my breath,a needle, oh so fine,My heart is there, my earthy fleshmust here to force resign;My breath is in the thatch divinemy body's to mansions bound.
20
The needle's Beauty, ne'er shall Icompare with kingliness;The needle covers naked onesbut not 'itself' doth dress;The twice-born only can possessknowledge of its loveliness.
IV
21
"Palatial doors and windows Iwill build for thee, Marui-But here now...lovely canopiesI shall raise over thee...Those who did ne'er enquiries makewhy so continouslyYou weep for them? something must bewrong with the desert-folk."
22
"How to forget him, whom my mem'ryholds for ever more?"Since: "am I not thy Lord?" was uttered,or e'en long before;Ere: Born He's not...gives birth to nonefrom the inane did soar.-Remem'ering Him-Marui so soremay die today or tomorrow.
23
Threads Maru round my wrists tied...goldfine gold they are for me;Omar, don't offer silks to rusticmaid, they leave me cold-Because much dearer I do holdmy worn ancestral shawl.
24
Were I to breathe my last, lookingto my home longingly-My body don't imprison herein bondage and unfree-A stranger from her love awaynot bury separately;The cool earth of the desert letthe dead one's cover be;When last breath comes, O carry meto Malir, I implore.
25
As oyester long for cloud, and craneslong for their native-hills.So deepest longing my heart strainstill nought of life remains.-How would I sit here, if not chainsheld me a prisoner?
26
The wounds that happy rustics lefttoday fester again-Sumro, sorrow dwells in meof every joy bereft;From Maru's separation, cleftis every bone of mine.
V
27
My girl-friends in reproachful mood,today sent word to me:"Silly one, you perhaps have eatenmuch of princely food,Abd friends, and your relations goodyou have frogotten all."
28
In corners of the fort, to quellher grief Marui doth mournRemembering Malir, she doth weep,makes others weep as well-O may the maid reach home and dwellamongst her Marus soon.
29
"Would that I never had been born,or died at birth"...she says;"O what a torture, shame and scornto Marus I became."
30
Destiny brought me here...resideI do unhappy here;My body's here-my heart is therewhere Maru doth abide;May God now turn this sorrow's tideand let me meet my love.-
31
The lightenings are now newly dressed,the season doth return;Mine eyes do not stop drizzling...forancestral land they yearn-I would not with such sadness burnif they would think of me.
32
If looking to my native landwith longing I expire;My body carry home, that Imay rest in desert-stand;My bones if Malir reach, at end,though dead, I'll live again.
VI
33
A messenger arrived'this dayauthentic news conveys;"Do not forget your distant loveand do not die", he says,You shall reach home; only few daysin this fort you may stay?
34
The one who from my homeland came,oh at his feet I fall-And to this traveller, my heartdid open, telling all-An instant more behind this wallto be, how I abhor.
35
"Don't cry, don't weep and fret;shed no tears of dismay;Whatever days appear,O let them pass away,-For after sorrow, joyO Marui, comes to stay-Desert maid know, your chainsby destiny's own swayAre moved, and now you maythrow them into the fire."
36
Omar, a traveller I did meettoday, with news for me.-And as he stood and message gave from the Beloved sweetI felt all sufferings did retreatand my chains all did fall.
37
My iron shackels all are gone.-Love's chains unyielding are.Unhappy days without Marusin mansions, life did mar...My countrymen, they are too farreproach them I cannot.-
38
Good were the days that I in painin tortuous prison passed;Storms roared above threateningly,my cries for help were vain;But lo: my love by prison chain,was chastened, purified.
39
The days I passed in deep depair,away from homeland mine,-My tribesmen will reproach me, ifmy face looks washed and fair-So to their thatches I'll repairto wash off mansion dirt!
40
"Don't weep, nor cry in agonybut when the world's asleep;At night raise both your little handsto God, and hopeful be-Where you wedded were, brave Marui'that homeland' thou shalt see,"
1
When 'Be' was not yet said, nor wasthere flesh-bone scheme or plan;When Adam had not yet receivedhis form, was not yet man;Then my relationship began,my recognition too.
2
"Am I not thy Lord?" came a voice;a voice so sweet and clear;And I said: "yes" with all my heartwhen I this voice did hear;And with a bond I did adherethat moment to my love
3
Ere God created souls, by saying;"Be",-all one they were;Together were they-and beholdmy kinship started there-I still this recognition bearwith thee, Beloved mine.-
II
4
A prisoner I by destiny...or who would want, these forts"We nearer than thy life's vein are"to that home I will flee-When will I be from mansions freeand reach my Maru sweet?
5
I'll burn these houses...Mansions tallthat shorn of loved-ones are-"All things return to their origin"that's my longing's call;May I walk home, away from alland see my land 'malir'.
6
No news, no dream vouchsafed to meno messenger doth come;From 'there to here', there's no reply,no answer to my plea-Princes, I know not what must beaccounts you did render.
7
O God, do send the messengerwho will my message bear-I do belong to them, althoughto own me they don't care...I hold the pen within my hand,may some one paper spare;Tears check my writing, in despairO'er pen they fall and fall.
8
Scores of patches my bodice shows,my head with rags is decked-I to my people hoped to goand all robes did reject;My shawl from Dhat, may God protectits virtue to hide my shame.
9
In the condition that I came,could I return in same-What glory, like a seasonal rainwhat joy would I reclaim.
10
Amighty God, let it not bethat I in bondage dieEnchained my body night and day,doth weep in misery-O let me first my homeland seeand then my days let end.
11
O where is my distinction gone?my beauty and my grace?My homeland I can never seekin this condition base;If beauty granted be then faceI dare Beloved one.
12
Omar, my face so dirty is,my beauty now is done;And yet, I have to go where nonewithout beauty's received.
III
13
Fair Marui does not wash her hair,She does not smile or eat,On Omar's justice relies shewho robbed her freedom sweet;-"The havoc you have wrought, you'll meetat your arrival 'there'."
14
Fair Marui does not wash her hair,clotted it is, uglyThe nomad folks of desert landlive in her memory-"Omar, parted from them, unfreeI'll ne'er in forts reside."
15
Fair Marui does not wash her hair,for Malir longeth she...Only when prince doth set her freebalance restored will be...Whole desert will drink milk, for gleewhen 'trust' is safe returned.
16
There is no force to make them pine,-no taxes in their land,They gather lovely flowers redfor mangers of their kine-Malir with lustrous smiles doth shinethere priceless marus are.
17
Loved-one I never can forget;my mind with him is filled-Nothing you see is like Him, soto sight he does not yield;Because, loved-one His house has builtin negativity.-
18
Omar, for me your mansions granda double torture are;Here you torment me...there, so farloved-ones accuse me too.
19
To Maru needle joined my breath,a needle, oh so fine,My heart is there, my earthy fleshmust here to force resign;My breath is in the thatch divinemy body's to mansions bound.
20
The needle's Beauty, ne'er shall Icompare with kingliness;The needle covers naked onesbut not 'itself' doth dress;The twice-born only can possessknowledge of its loveliness.
IV
21
"Palatial doors and windows Iwill build for thee, Marui-But here now...lovely canopiesI shall raise over thee...Those who did ne'er enquiries makewhy so continouslyYou weep for them? something must bewrong with the desert-folk."
22
"How to forget him, whom my mem'ryholds for ever more?"Since: "am I not thy Lord?" was uttered,or e'en long before;Ere: Born He's not...gives birth to nonefrom the inane did soar.-Remem'ering Him-Marui so soremay die today or tomorrow.
23
Threads Maru round my wrists tied...goldfine gold they are for me;Omar, don't offer silks to rusticmaid, they leave me cold-Because much dearer I do holdmy worn ancestral shawl.
24
Were I to breathe my last, lookingto my home longingly-My body don't imprison herein bondage and unfree-A stranger from her love awaynot bury separately;The cool earth of the desert letthe dead one's cover be;When last breath comes, O carry meto Malir, I implore.
25
As oyester long for cloud, and craneslong for their native-hills.So deepest longing my heart strainstill nought of life remains.-How would I sit here, if not chainsheld me a prisoner?
26
The wounds that happy rustics lefttoday fester again-Sumro, sorrow dwells in meof every joy bereft;From Maru's separation, cleftis every bone of mine.
V
27
My girl-friends in reproachful mood,today sent word to me:"Silly one, you perhaps have eatenmuch of princely food,Abd friends, and your relations goodyou have frogotten all."
28
In corners of the fort, to quellher grief Marui doth mournRemembering Malir, she doth weep,makes others weep as well-O may the maid reach home and dwellamongst her Marus soon.
29
"Would that I never had been born,or died at birth"...she says;"O what a torture, shame and scornto Marus I became."
30
Destiny brought me here...resideI do unhappy here;My body's here-my heart is therewhere Maru doth abide;May God now turn this sorrow's tideand let me meet my love.-
31
The lightenings are now newly dressed,the season doth return;Mine eyes do not stop drizzling...forancestral land they yearn-I would not with such sadness burnif they would think of me.
32
If looking to my native landwith longing I expire;My body carry home, that Imay rest in desert-stand;My bones if Malir reach, at end,though dead, I'll live again.
VI
33
A messenger arrived'this dayauthentic news conveys;"Do not forget your distant loveand do not die", he says,You shall reach home; only few daysin this fort you may stay?
34
The one who from my homeland came,oh at his feet I fall-And to this traveller, my heartdid open, telling all-An instant more behind this wallto be, how I abhor.
35
"Don't cry, don't weep and fret;shed no tears of dismay;Whatever days appear,O let them pass away,-For after sorrow, joyO Marui, comes to stay-Desert maid know, your chainsby destiny's own swayAre moved, and now you maythrow them into the fire."
36
Omar, a traveller I did meettoday, with news for me.-And as he stood and message gave from the Beloved sweetI felt all sufferings did retreatand my chains all did fall.
37
My iron shackels all are gone.-Love's chains unyielding are.Unhappy days without Marusin mansions, life did mar...My countrymen, they are too farreproach them I cannot.-
38
Good were the days that I in painin tortuous prison passed;Storms roared above threateningly,my cries for help were vain;But lo: my love by prison chain,was chastened, purified.
39
The days I passed in deep depair,away from homeland mine,-My tribesmen will reproach me, ifmy face looks washed and fair-So to their thatches I'll repairto wash off mansion dirt!
40
"Don't weep, nor cry in agonybut when the world's asleep;At night raise both your little handsto God, and hopeful be-Where you wedded were, brave Marui'that homeland' thou shalt see,"
Shah Latif `s Poetry (Translated In Verse By: Elsa Kazi) Sohni-XXIX
1
Currents have their velocity,rivers their speed possess-But where there's love, a different rushits currents do express,And those that love fathomlessness,are steeped in depth of thought.-
2
Master the lesson throughlythat law doth teach Sohni-Then contemplate and meditatetill 'truth' comes near to thee-But "Reality's Vision" will bereward of lovers true.
3
So many, many line the banks-"Sahar! Sahar!" they cry-Afraid some to risk life, and someRenouncingly would die.But Sahar meets, who without sighjoyfully waters seek.
4
The rivulets are not yet deep;the depth is far ahead,O friends, relations are secureWhen one at home doth keepBut had you seen my Sahar's faceyou would no longer sleep-Nor stop me,-but take float and leapinto the running stream.
5
If you his features were to seeyou could no longer rest;Nor by your husband's side, would youso comfortable be-But earthen-jar, long before me,you would pick up and plunge.
6
If you had seen with your own eyes,what I have seen and know-For that you'd surely sacrificeyour homes and husbands too.
7
Ah! those who do their eyes and faceAdjust to Sahar sweet,Behold! if e'en without supportThey plunge in whirlpool's maze-They are immune from river's waysFor waters drown them not.
8
In wintry night and rain Sohniseeks flood with jar of clay-"Oh let us go and ask Sohniwho knows of love's true way;Whose thoughts with Sahar always staythroughout the night and day."
9
From Sahar, Sohni drank with zeal,life-giving draught of love-Intoxicated with its tasteshe still its charm doth feel-By pointed arrow, sharp as steelof cupid, she was sruck.-
10
From "Dum", who chides, she has no frighther spouse he never was;-See,-even muddy, gurgling streamher beauty cannot blight!For Sahar, she in darkest nightwill plunge in eddies wild.
II
11
O sisters, tinkling cattle bellsmy every limb have stirred-The love, by bell-music arousedone not to strangers tells-The friend, my main-stay, far he dwellsyet sends his solace sweet.
12
All round the herdsman's bells I hearthe tinkling sattle bells;When sleeping, echoes of their chimefrom far did reach mine ear.How could I sleep when travelling nearthis music rent my heart?
13
Stirred by the bells, how could I sleeprestfully and in peace?When I a hundred times the dayfor Sahar long and weep!In chains of love Sahar doth keepmy being till I die.
14
On this side of the stream, the strainof echoes reaching me-From loving Mehar's bells, old woundsbegan to bleed again;To go to him and soothe my painincumbent then became!
III
15
Young buffaloes she seeks, her woeswith them she doth confide;"My Mehar of the Buffaloesoh have you met him yet?"
16
She puts her arms, by grief opprestaround their necks and weeps.-"Coarse grasses that you eat, I'll placeagainst my aching breast,And with your voice I shall be blestand ever happy be."
17
The sun is setting, and the crowsin trees at rest now are;The call for prayers Sohni hearsand she picks up the jar,To float across the river far,and see where Sahar is.
18
She need not ask for slopes, she findsa slope at any place;An easy slope and easy waysare for the fickle minds-But those whom love to Sahar blindsneed neither slopes nor ease.-
19
The false ones seek for sloping banks,and only seek for show;But those who Sahar truly lovewhere they must enter, knowFor those who with love's thirst do glowwhole river is one-step.
IV
20
Blest be dark night, the moolit nightbe now so far away,So that except Mehar's, I maynot see another face.-
21
Go without 'Self', seek no support,and forget everything,Sohni, thy love alone thee tothe other side will bring;"Longing",thy guide, the thunderingriver shalt eas'ly cross.
22
A call sounds from the other side,clearly: "Come!" it doth say.-The river overflows with waves,skies overcast and grey-I know that with whom God doth stayshall never, never drown.
23
A call sounds from the other side,clearly "Come!" it doth say-River in spate, and weak one withan unbaked jar of clay-I know, nought yields to water's swaythat upheld is by 'Truth'.-
24
A black full night, and from abovesky, rain in torrents sends-On one side fear of tracklessnessOn other, lion stands-"If even life in effort endsI shall keep tryst of love."
26
She's neither here nor there, alonein midst of roaring stream-On dry banks only Sahar standsall else is flooded zone-Oh seek the waves! mercy is shownonly to drowning ones
27
She took the jar...she plunged so deepmay God the maiden saveHer leg in mouth of dog-fish andher neck the shark will have-Her bangles, garments in the mud-her hair floats on the wave-The fishes big and small, all roundare crowding, food they crave;And crocodiles prepare a grave-poor Sohni will be sliced.
28
A drowning man, by feeble grassesat the banks will hold,Look at the wondrous chivalrythe tender straws unfold,To hold him up, they will make hold,or else with him will sink.-
29
I knew not that the jar was fakedits colours were the same-My heart beyond control, I thurstmyself on jar unbaked;The thing on which my life I stakedin midstream landed me.
30
By help of which the longing eyesdid see Beloved's face;The jar, how could I sacrificeas dear as life to me?
31
My heart exhausted is and weak,no strength my limbs have now;"O Sahar, thou dost know all this,O help me, cast thy tow-I am so ignorant, and thoumy love so great thou art."
32
The jar, the means to reach, did break,alas, the maiden drowned,But only then she heard the soundof Sahar's voice draw nigh.
33
The means on which she had relied,did thrust her in the flood;And only after she had diedshe heard the herdsman's call.-
V
34
"The jar is broken! let it goobstructive screen it was mere-My real being is singing stillsoul-music still is hereAnd still I seek my Sahar dear,though without 'action' now."
35
My heart, you keep on swimming,the jar let break and go...My eyes, I train them every daymore of control to know;The herdsman led me, and did showto me friend, the 'straight' path.
36
Suggest no rafts to those who lovenor ask boat-men around;Sohni that is for Sahar boundenquiring doth not need.
37
Hundreds were by the river drowned-but river drowned was by this maid;The current broke itself instead,by knocking bluntly'gainst the banks.
38
As long she was alive,-she ne'ersat down, did never restNow she lies underground,...her questin silence still goes on.
39
If loved-ones met on judgement daythat would be very near,But ah! so very far away,tiding of 'Union' are.
40
Sahar, Sohni and seainseparably 'One'-This ineffable mysteryno one can ever solve.
VI
41
"On what count am I here? O whybereft of loved ones face?"You preach: "Deflect from sin", but Iyour virtue do deny-"Moral control I do not neednor do for music sigh.-"Keep closed your lips, and from withinyourself oyu'll beautify-"These that on 'Top' of waters floware bubbles that belie.-"Feed on selflessness, for your loveMincemeat to be, then try-"If headlong into dirt you rushyourself you'll purify-"Nought does possess more wealth than dustnothing with dust can vie,-"Who runs by stirrup of the guidethe other side will spy.-"Falcon, pick up your greedy self and fly with it on high.-"Don't lose sigh of the friends, walkingin veils that mystify.-"More than Oneness in love, is likesplitting two-lettered tie-"Those who do long for wine of lovewith purest them supply.-""These ravings are the vain replyof tortured, sickly one.-On what count, am, I here oh! why?Bereft of loved ones face."
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)