Ghazal 284

An unseen voice from the corner of the tavern last night

said: They will forgive sin — drink wine.

Divine grace will do its own work —

the angel will bring the good news of mercy.

Take this raw intellect to the tavern,

that the ruby wine may bring its blood to a boil.

Though union with Him is not given by effort,

strive as much as you can, O heart.

God's grace is greater than our sin —

what do you know of the sealed secret? Be silent.

My ear and the ring of the beloved's tresses —

my face and the dust of the wine-seller's door.

The revelry of Hafez is no grave sin

before the generosity of the fault-concealing King.

The Judge of Faith, Shah Shuja, he whom

the Holy Spirit wears as an earring of obedience.

O Lord of the Throne, grant him his desire,

and guard him from the peril of the evil eye.