بخش 19 - فهم کردن حاذقان نصاری مکر وزیر را

Whoever was possessed of (spiritual) discernment was feeling a sweet savour in his words and, joined therewith, bitterness.

He (the vizier) was saying fine things mixed (with foul): he had poured some poison into the sugared julep.

The outward sense of it was saying, “Be diligent in the Way,” but in effect it was saying to the soul, “Be slack.”

If the surface of silver is white and new, (yet) the hands and dress are blackened by it.

Although fire is red-faced (bright and glorious) with sparks, look at the black behaviour (displayed) in its action.

If the lightning appears luminous to the eye, (yet) from its distinctive property it is the robber of sight (it strikes men blind).

(As for) any (Christian) who was not wary and possessed of discernment, the words of him (the vizier) were (as) a collar on his neck.

During six years, in separation from the king, the vizier became a refuge for the followers of Jesus.

To him the people wholly surrendered their religion and their hearts: at his command and decree they were ready to die.