Rabia of Basra

The sun is now in homage to my face,

because it knows I have seen God.

But that was not His payment.

The soul cannot describe His gift.

I just spoke about the sun like that

because I like beautiful words and

because it is true:

Creation is in homage to us.

Rabia of Basra (c.717-801) : "It Acts Like Love"

It acts like love - music -

it reaches toward the face, touches it, and tries to let you know

His promise: that all will be okay.

It acts like love - music and,

tells the feet, "You do not have to be so burdened."

My body is covered with wounds

this world made,

but I still longed to kiss Him, even when God said,

"Could you also kiss the hand that caused

each scar,

for you will not find me until

you do."

It does that - music - help us

to forgive.

From "Love Poems from God"

Edited & Translated by Daniel Ladinsky

Penguin Compass 2002

Love Poems from God