Ghazal 244

Friends, unlock the locks of the Beloved’s head
On this joyous night, let the story spread.

In familiar solitude friends have tread
Close the door after a prayer is read.

Violin and harp loudly sang and said
Listen and let your sense by the Knower be led.

I swear all sadness will have fled
Once you trust in God to give your daily bread.

The lover and beloved differ as white and red
Need your hunger, when beloved wants to be fed.

The first words of the wine-master simply said
The unworthy companion strongly dread.

Whoever in this world with love is not wed
Hold his funeral as another living dead.

And if Hafiz for alms towards you has sped
Redirect him towards the Beloved’s bed.