Through much toil do you gain high distinction.

So he who seeks learning keeps awake during the night.

You strive after glory, but then you sleep at night?

He who seeks pearls immerses himself in the sea.

The height of (the builder’s) blocks depends on the height

of his aspirations; a man’s dignity rests on his nightly vigils.

Whoever desires elevation without fatigue

wastes his life in the quest for the absurd.

I have forsaken sleep at night to win Your satisfaction, O Lord of

Lords.

So let me attain the acquisition of knowledge

and let me reach the utmost degree of accomplishment

- Almutanabbi-