M3:82 — از برای امتحان، خوار و یتیم / لیک اندر سِر، منم یار و ندیم

This couplet is spoken by God, explaining His relationship with His saints, the awliyā. The preceding verses (M3:79-81) establish that these awliyā are 'God's children,' seemingly vulnerable and isolated in the world, much like the elephant calves in the larger story who are hunted by humans while their powerful mother lurks nearby. The 'abasement' (khwār) and 'orphanhood' (yatīm) mentioned here refer to their outward condition: they may lack worldly status, wealth, or apparent protectors, and might even be subjected to trials and hardships. This is not a sign of divine neglect, but rather a 'test' (imtihān).

The second hemistich reveals the hidden truth: 'Yet in secret, I am their companion and intimate.' God assures that despite their outward vulnerability, He is always present with them, acting as their most trusted friend (yār) and confidant (nadīm). This intimate connection is 'in secret' (dar sirr), meaning it is not visible to the ordinary eye, but is a profound spiritual reality. This divine companionship is what truly protects and empowers the awliyā, enabling them to achieve extraordinary feats, as the subsequent verses (M3:85-87) illustrate with examples of Moses, Noah, and Lot. Their strength comes not from themselves, but from this hidden, unwavering divine support.