The clouds rain wheat. Man, then, by labour and by skill, Reduces this to food, when finely ground in mill. But Moses’ cloud, more generous far, with open hand, Sent down in plenty food prepared, by God’s command. 15 For them who ate at Providence’s table, free, God’s mercy was displayed;--a banner all could see. For forty years that daily bread--abounding grace-- Failed not. Fond expectation’s utmost stretch took place. But satisfaction followed not. The thankless crew Demanded “leeks and onions;” as of old they knew.[408] Ye who are Ahmed’s people, graced beyond compare, Are promised spiritual blessings till last judgment’s blare. Whoever says, at heart: “My trust is in the Lord,”[409] God’s promise: “Him I’ll feed,” will find a faithful word.[410] 20 Without a twist accept this promise, as is meet; You’ll find it in your mouth as milk and honey sweet. To twist a term, and so deny gift’s incidence, Is to invent a cloak to change the word’s true sense. To think th’ expression’s wrong sad weakness shows of mind; Wisdom divine’s a kernel; human reason, rind. Twist then thyself; change not the sense of words divine; Conceive thy nose at fault; chide not the sweet woodbine. O ‘Alī! Thou who mind and eye entirely art! Relate a little of the knowledge in thy heart. 25 Thy calmness is a sword that cleaves our minds in twain; The fountain of thy wisdom makes us whole again. Speak out! I know these mysteries are Jehovah’s own; To kill without a sword’s a power of God well known. He is Creator, without limbs and without tools; The Giver of all blessings, copious as sea’s pools. How many kinds of wine are savoured by our souls, While eye and ear perceive not whence the wave that rolls! Pray tell us, ‘Alī,--falcon, soaring in heaven’s heights,— What didst thou see that instant, to forego thy rights? 30 Thy eyes have learnt to catch seraphic visions’ gleam; Around thee, all unconscious are, as in a dream. Thou seest the moon, all brightly shining in the sky; We see but darkness, clouds above us seem to fly. Thou seest three moons together, shining bright, outspread; While three of us are scarcely sure one’s overhead. All three have eyes and ears fixed on thee, in suspense, In keenest expectation. I’m stone of offence.