Have pity upon me for I have lost my way and I (also) desire...

Have pity upon me for I have lost my way and I (also) desire to be adorned with your traits and attributes.” “If you had truly placed your trust in Allah, you would never have lost your way. Now follow me,” replied the youth. Saying this, he went to one side of the tree and, taking hold of my hand, brought me to a place by means of tayy al-ardh[^7]. It became apparent to me that morning had dawned. “Good news for you, for this place is Makkah,” said the youth.

I realized that I could hear the voices of the pilgrims who had come there to perform the Hajj. I turned to the youth and asked: “I place you under the oath of He, upon Whom you have pinned your hopes…