250 – A man from Basra told us that the following inscription was read on a grave in the Hijaz:

How many a generous, honored, and handsome man of fortune
Has ended as crumbling bones in the grave’s black night, paying his due.

All praise is Allah’s; my Lord, I now lie in the tomb alone,
And death has parted me from my family and the friends I loved.

I know nothing of what has happened after my passing;
Here I remain with my deeds and the evil of the pledge I broke.

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In lonely anguish I bear the sickness of sins that ruined my striving;
I seek Allah’s forgiveness, my Lord, for my errors, whether unwitting or deliberate.

So pardon my sin, O God—for it all stands before You.
You are the Most Generous by Your grace; grant me a peaceful rest this day.