Classic Poem

Rabbi Simeon, son of Shetach,
From a friendly Ishmaelite,
Bought a camel for a journey,
Strong in limb, of noble height.

Rabbi Simeon's young disciples,
When they drew the saddle down,
Found a hidden band of diamonds,
Fashioned like a royal crown.

“Rabbi, Rabbi,” cried his pupils,
“God has blessed thee with this gift!”
But the Master sternly answered:
“God commands not theft, but thrift.”

“Take these diamonds to their owner;
For a camel I have paid;
Not for gleaming stones or jewels
With my comrade did I trade.”

Thus the Ishmaelite, delighted,
Saw a deed of honor done.
And more precious gems than diamonds,
Rabbi Simeon Shetach won.