Poem-a-Day

^{translated from the Arabic by Leonard Chalmers-Hunt}

                           i
There is a vineyard planted by the Lord, 
’Tis nigh to all who dwell in sweet accord—
Who drink the Cup of Blessings manifold,
The Living Wine by Prophecy foretold.

                           ii
A Parable of Life doth crown the Vine, 
Each purple cluster forms a mystic sign, 
The Passion-flower doth yield in that fair Land
Blossoms of comfort for the Pilgrim band.

                           iii
As when the ruby in the Crystal Cup 
Glows with encrimson’d light when lifted up
While th’ attendant with obsequious hand, 
Pours out a measure at the guest’s command.

                           iv
So doth the sun that bathes the world in light 
Shed paler glory on the moon at night. 
Whose crescent is the symbol of man’s birth, 
Whose Fulness marks his Zenith on the earth.

                           v
Imperial knowledge shines with visions bright
When it is worship of the Infinite, 
Like water mix’d with wine, some understand 
And reach like children for their Father’s hand.

                           vi
Like an Oasis in far desert land, 
Its Tavern by spice-laden breezes fann’d,
That guide the grateful trav’ller when astray,
As they have guided me, tho’ far away.

                           vii
Or, when grey shadows of Night’s Last Watch fly 
Ere Dawn’s pale flush illumes the Orient sky, 
So doth heart feel, and fervent impulse glow,
With loveliest imagery that thought can know.

                           viii
For in that hallow’d Vintage lies the sense! 
That brings the wayfarer his recompense, 
No vain imaginings could e’er have found, 
The Source that giveth Light to all around.

                           ix
E’en as the essence of the Lotus-flower
That philters thro’ the gardens hour by hour 
In ancient Egypt—Lo! it’s quick’ning breath 
Makes wise the meek, and triumphs over Death.