I saw an Arab in a gathering of jewelers in Basra who was recounting that: Once, I had lost my way in a desert and had nothing left of provisions, and had resigned myself to death, when suddenly I found a pouch full of pearls. I will never forget that joy and happiness when I thought it was roasted wheat, and then that bitterness and despair when I realized it was pearls!

In the dry desert and flowing sand

What is pearl or shell to a thirsty person's mouth?

A man without provisions who has collapsed

What is gold or earthenware on his belt?