The diversions of this world are often enticing that those who are enjoying them do not see life as it really is. That is why it is so rare and actually nice when it happens, to see a ruler or king who perceives the reality of life. This is the story of one of the rulers of the Muslim Ummah (community) called Harun ar-Rashid and a poet called Abul-Atahiyyah. AI-Asmai reported that the ruler ar-Rashid once ordered that many delicacies be prepared for him. He wanted to have a nice party for himself, so he had a hall decorated for him, and he invited the famous poet Abul-Atahiyyah. When the party had begun, ar-Rashid looked at Abul- Atahiyyah and said, "describe the pleasures of the world that we are enjoying." It was often the case that kings and rulers requested poets to compose impromptu verses for them. Abul-Atahiyyah began thus: Live in comfort as long as you please, under the shed of high and wonderful castle. "Wonderful, wonderful. Please continue," said Haroun ar-Rashid. Abul-Atahiyyah continued: All that you desire is brought to you Quickly, both in the morning and in the evening. "Wonderful, wonderful," ar-Rashid said."Please continue." He resumed thus: Then, when the souls are parting, through the breast with a croaking sound, It is then that one comes to know: I have lived nothing but a life of deception. Ar-Rashid began to weep profusely, and some of those who were present looked reproached at Abul-Atahiyyah and said, "The leader of the believers has invited you here to make him happy, yet all that you have succeeded in doing is making him sad!" "Leave him alone," said ar-Rashid with a sigh. "He simply noticed that we were in a state of blindness, and disliked adding to it even with more blindness. Stories of Repentance by Muhammad Abduh Mughawiri.
Posted on: Fri, 09 Aug 2013 20:08:33 +0000
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