Your curls’ breeze revives Jesus’ breath – Abdur Rahman’s Corner

Peace, one and all…

Your curls’ breeze revives Jesus’ breath;
your face’s glow reveals Moses’ vision.

Head for the garden to drink dew at dawn;
the breeze reports the flower to the nightingale.

Spiritual yearning revokes physical craving.
Desire the Beloved; reject the manna and quails.

If only you’d emerge from behind the veils
to burn the cloak of pretence and deliver the truth.

My heart demands the touch of your curls;
but with hearts in each hair, what need for mine?

I’m abstinent for thirty years, but I’ll become a wine-seller
should you reflect your splendour in my cup.

If my Beloved would throw aside the veils
Mani’s gallery would be splendidly adorned.

If my Beloved would raise the veils
you’d see only the pious at the tavern.

In the pits of Hell Attar will be in your debt
if you’d shine us your glory from Heaven.

Attar, Fifty Poems of Attar, no. 2