Chapter X: Story of the Idolater and the Idol

From the world an idolater shut off his face,And to worship his idol was always in place.Fate, after some years, to that reprobate wretchA difficult matter did suddenly fetch.At the idol's feet, hoping that good might be gained,On the dust of the temple he, helpless, complained:"Oh, idol! I'm helpless; assistance I claim!I am greatly exhausted, oh, pity my frame !"He many a time in its presence bewailed,But in getting his matter adjusted, he failed.Say, when will an idol one's business effect,That to drive off a fly from itself can't elect?"Oh thou, on whose foot error's fetter appears,In folly, I've worshipped for several years !The business that presses before me, complete!If you don't, the All-cherishing God, I'll entreat !"He was still with the idol, his face smeared with dust,When his wish was fulfilled by the God we all trust.A knower of truths at this work showed surprise ;The time of his clearness seemed dark in his eyes.For a mean and bewildered one worshipping God,Still drunk with the wine of the idol-abode—Heart and head still with error and perfidy fraught,Through God, had accomplished the object he sought!To this difficult matter his heart he resigned,When a message arrived at the ear of his mind:"In front of this idol, this foolish one grieved,And said many words that had not been received;Were he forced from my shrine, also, hopeless to plod,How far would it be from an idol to God?"Your heart on the Lord, then, oh friend, you must bind !All others, more feeble than idols, you'll find.Place your head at this portal, and happen it can't,That your hand should return to you empty, from want!Oh God ! we have come, of our failures to tell ;We have come to Thee sinners, and hopeful, as well.