I heard that an old man on the road to Hejaz

Would perform two rak'ats (units) of prayer with every step.

He was so fervent on the path of God

That he did not even remove the thorns of the acacia tree from his feet.

In the end, due to obsessive thoughts that disturbed his mind

He became pleased with his own actions.

Due to the deception of Iblis (Satan), he fell into a well (of delusion)

Thinking that there was no better way to walk (than his own).

If he had not received God's mercy

His pride would have turned him away from the path.

A voice from the unseen called out to him

Saying, 'O fortunate one, of blessed nature,'

Do not think that if you have performed an act of worship

That you have brought a gift to this presence (of God).

To bring peace to a heart through kindness

Is better than a thousand rak'ats at every stop.