Page:Tales from the Gulistan (1928).pdf/133

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Story LXXX

STORY LXXX

A company of vagabonds met a Dervish, spoke insulted words to him, struck him, and otherwise molested him; whereon he complained to his superior,[1] and explained the case.

The Pir replied: “ My son! The patched frock of Dervishes is the garment of resignation, and who, wearing it, cannot bear injuries, is a pretender [only a false Dervish] not entitled to the frock.”

A large river will not become turbid from stones; the Arif[2] who feels aggrieved is shallow water yet. If he injures thee, bear it, because pardon will purify thee from sin. O brother! As the end is dust, be dust before thou art turned into dust.

  1. Spiritual director of the Tariqat.
  2. 'Arif' is a Sûfi who knows, i.e. has attained spiritual knowledge.

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