Turning one’s eyes away from the beauty of beloveds is a challenge so vast,
Whoever gives such advice to us speaks in vain and without grasp.

Though the beautiful beloved might instill a thousand fears in the heart,
Beholding their face at dawn is a blessed start.

For those trapped in the dimple of their chin,
Are like a soul imprisoned in Babylon’s prison, deep within.

Once, I claimed to live a pious and abstinent life,
But now I confess that every such claim was rife with strife.

Though poison, in the eyes of the wise, is lethal and cruel,
From the hand of the beloved, it’s a swift and healing tool.

I dare not step away from the lane of the beloved,
Friends, forgive me, for my feet are deeply rooted in this love.

Let all the wise declare me mad, I care not for their decree,
One cannot abandon life itself, no matter how rational one may be.

Those who claim gazing upon beauty is wrong and astray,
See only the form and are blind to the meaning that holds sway.

O camel driver, tread softly, for the peace of my soul lies in this caravan,
While beasts bear burdens on their backs, our hearts carry the beloved's plan.

Even if a hundred barriers of separation lie between me and the beloved,
Still, they reside within my soul, deeply cherished and loved.

Saadi, befriending others may seem simple and light,
But once a bond is formed, severing it is a daunting fight.