Monday, March 30, 2009

Noble Summit

By Ruhudeen Ali
March 30th, 2009

Noble Summit,
You are the peak of this world
at your base in water caches lie collections of pearls.
Creatures' livelihood is supported on your side
in your crevices the weak seek to hide.
Every prophet through the ages
has stood on your shoulders to receive God's wages.
You have prevented countless wars
seeking refuge, many have climbed you in scores.
You are mentioned in the scriptures of the Lord
for your stunning stature, your heights that soar
and yet, despite this, you remain humble.
When God showers mercy upon you
tears of rivers stream down your face as you rumble.
And though on occasion your anger causes us to tremble
volcanic eruptions speak of the raging emotions within
showing us how closely humans you resemble.
We consider it a feat just to climb your back
feeling ourselves proud though we will never understand that.
We tear through you and bomb you to shorten your summit
thinking ourselves great, our presence must make you plummet.
So boulders you throw down, lava and avalanches
you only favor the humble species, not the haughtier branches.
Still we don't get the message, your efforts do not thwart
our presence on your side so we turn you into sport.
O noble summit, do not judge mankind for the acts of a few
you will forever remain the attraction in the beholders' view.
People still admire your awesome presence
void of vanity your insides are hollow and dense.
How we admire you, Oh noble summit
for your station and your praise.
All are left to wonder at your glory and be amazed
yet you are not proud and arrogant.
This is why the Lord chose you as the setting
in the scene of many a divine event.
I reflect on your symbol* this day and repent
You are my teacher and I am your student!

"Behold! [the mountains] Safa and Marwa are among the Symbols of Allah." [2:158]

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