And follow the road of those who gained both reason and god-fearing poise:
They lived—and proved themselves—upright in secret and in public noise.

They are the imams, the pivotal saints, never duped or overrun;
They never bartered away their faith for trifling profit or a cheated sum.

They are the Companions of the Best of Creation, the learned guides of his community—
The finest generation, the stars by which all ages seek sure continuity.

Whoever takes their guidance is thereby truly shown the way;
For later folk they are the ark that saves when tempests of trial hold sway.

And those who follow them upon the straight, unbending track
Are people of piety, guidance, knowledge, and discerning tact.

So choose, for your religion, a scholar worthy of your trust and hand—
A name renowned from Syria northward to Yemen’s distant land.

He gathered their foundations, then trod their pathway clear,
Advancing to every noble meaning, refined and dear. (1)

And Mālik the Elect—of them all, beyond dispute, the pre-eminent one—
Imam of the abode of guidance, revelation, and the sunnah’s sun.

Take therefore your knowledge from him if you would truly follow the way,
And leave the gaudy embellishments that fade like dreams and drowsy display.

He is the model to emulate in transmitted reports, their chains he secures with care—
Unlike the man whose reliability in such matters is too light to bear.