The Beggar at the Kaaba

I saw a poor dervish pressing his forehead on the threshold of the Kaaba, saying: 'You who forgive, you who show mercy! You know what can come from someone as unjust and ignorant as I am.' I have come to apologize for falling short in my service, for I have nothing in my worship to lean on. Sinners repent of their sins; those who truly know God ask forgiveness even for their worship. The devout want a reward for their obedience, and merchants want a price for their goods. But I, your servant, have brought hope, not obedience; I have come to beg, not to trade. Do with me what befits you. At the door of the Kaaba I saw a beggar weeping sweetly as he spoke: I do not ask you to accept my worship; I only ask you to strike out my sins with the pen of pardon.