Robert Bridges, ed. (1844–1930). The Spirit of Man: An Anthology. 1916.
Beneath the Canopy of the SkiesTahir (11th Cent.)
BENEATH the canopy of the skies roam I night and day:
My home is in the desert by night and day.
No sickness troubleth me nor silent pain tormenteth;
One thing I know, that I sorrow night and day.
Homeless am I, O Lord: whither shall I turn?
A wanderer in the desert, whither shall I turn?
I come to Thee at last, driven from every threshold;
And if Thy door be closed, whither shall I turn?
Blessèd are they who live in sight of Thee,
Who speak with Thee, O Lord, and dwell with Thee.
Faint are my limbs, and my heart is fearful;
Humbly I sit with those who are dear to Thee.
Drunk tho’ we be with pleasure, Thou art our Faith;
Helpless, without hand or foot, Thou art our Faith;
Whether we be Nazarenes, Mussalmans or Gebres,
Whatsoe’er our creed, Thou art our Faith.