Page:Vision of Almet (1).pdf/22

From Wikisource
Jump to navigation Jump to search
This page has been validated.

22

that I have not recieved: As the sands of the desart drink up the drops of rain, or the dew of the morning, so do, also, who am but dust, imbibe the instructions of the Prophet. Believe then, that it is he who tells thee all knowledge is prophane, which terminates in thyself; and by a life wasted by speculation, little even of this can be gained. When the gates of Paradise are thrown open before thee, thy mind shall be eradiated in a moment; here thou canst little more than pile error upon error, there thou shalt build truth upon truth. Wait, therefore for the glorious vision; and in the mean time, emulate the eagle. Much is in thy power, and, therefore, much is expected of thee. Though the Almighty alone can give virtue; yet, as a prince, thou mayest stimulate those to beneficence, who act from no higher motive than immediate interest: thou canst not produce the principle, thou mayest enforce the practice. The relief of the poor is equal, whether they receive it from ostentation or charity; and the effect of example is the same, whether it be intended to obtain the favour of God or