There is no dearer thing on earth
   Than the love of a woman on whomever it is bestowed.
                                      --Luther.

There is nothing better upon this earth,
That is more highly prized,
Than love, for it has been proven
That love soon unites
Mind, heart, spirit with full force,
As if two had only one being.
       Thus, what they say I negate completely;
       To have true love does not bring sorrow,
       When both hearts are one.

The soul of man is a thousand times
More precious everywhere
Than the mortal part of man.
Yet love with its power
Has brought [the soul] under its sweet yoke;
Let everyone take note of this.
       Thus, what they say is insult and jest,
       To have true love does not bring pain,
       To him who loves a faithful heart.

All other happiness and diversions,
Before one has refreshed one’s spirit with them,
Die away, vanish.
But the happiness that love brings
Remains for many years, springs forth ever new,
Permeates the heart anew.
       Thus, what they say is all a mockery.
       To have true love does not bring adversity.
       [Rather,] it gives joy until death.