Discourses of Rumi

128 V DISCOURSES OF RUMIthese words unlawful to some. Even so, dwellersin Hell cry out to the dwellers in Paradise, saying,“Where is your generosity and your humanity?Out of those gifts and bounties that God hasgiven to you, out of charity and common kindnessif you sprinkle just a little upon us, could that beso difficult? We are burning and melting in thisfire. Out of those fruits, or out of those clearwaters of Paradise, if you sprinkle a drop or twoupon our souls, what would that be?”Thedwellers in Paradise answer, “God has forbiddenthat to you. The seed of this bliss came from ourearlier deeds. Since you did not sow and cultivatewith faith, sincerity and good works, what shouldyou gather here? Even if out of generosity weshould share with you, since it is not your rewardit would burn your throats and stick in your gullets.”Acrowd of hypocrites and strangers cameinto the presence of Mohammed. They began totalk about mysteries and praised the Prophet.Mohammed turned to his companions and said,“Cover up your vessels.” He meant, “Concealwisdom from strangers, and in their presence stopup your mouths and tongues, for they are miceand not worthy of this wisdom and grace.”The