And tracing its origin through one thing after another,
Or appealing to mere possibility, is a bewildered conjecture.

There is no doubt that every effect depends
On a preceding cause that necessitates it.

The real issue concerns the causes—the causes of all you see—
And their proceeding from the Sovereign Judge through His will alone.

Your asking, “Why did God will this?”
Is what plunged human minds into the depths of a pit.

For the Magians, who affirm a creator of benefit
And a lord who brings harm into being—

Their asking about the reason behind this mystery
Entangled their forebears in the delusion of dualism.

And those heretical philosophers who maintain
That action is eternal, owing to a cause,

Sought a cause for the universe’s existence after nonexistence;
Finding none, they went grievously astray.

In every community professing a blessed, prophetic faith,
Evil began through their delving into this:

From it arose their associating partners with Allah,
And the clear proofs faded during a lapse of prophetic guidance.

It is sufficient to refute you that the excuse you seek
Is rejected by every human being’s innate nature.

You blame all those who attack you,
And heap every reproach upon them.

You bestow sincere affection upon your allies,
And hate those who oppose you, whatever their faction.

Yet in every word and deed, their position is like yours,
As the weightiest proof establishes.

Suppose you withheld blame from every disbeliever
And every misguided person who is no object of love:

You would then have to turn away from every oppressor
Who violates people’s persons, property, or honour.