🦅 IRANLORE | ایران‌نامه
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Heroic Era (Kianian)

Siavosh

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322 distichs in this chapter
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The Ordeal by Fire: Sudabeh's Treachery and Siyavash's Immaculate Triumph
As the dark sphere of heaven rotated above the shadowed mountains, Queen Sudabeh sat radiantly upon her throne, donning a crown encrusted with rubies and fine gold. She adorned her harem like a terrestrial paradise filled with silver-bodied maidens, dispatching the chief eunuch to invite the noble Siyavash. The pristine prince entered gracefully, seating himself upon a golden throne. Sudabeh stood before him, her locks and face gleaming with jewels, displaying her finest maidens to entice the youth.

Yet Siyavash, guided by a chaste heart and immaculate wisdom, refused to fall into the snare of demonic temptation. Remembering the ancient betrayals of the house of Hamavaran and holding steadfast allegiance to his royal father Kay Kavus, he sought only to take Sudabeh's young daughter as his lawful bride. Realizing her desperate advances were thwarted, Sudabeh dropped all pretenses. In a surge of vengeful rage, she tore her royal garments, lacerated her cheeks with her nails, and raised a frantic uproar across the palace, accusing Siyavash of attempting to force himself upon her.

King Kay Kavus hurried to the harem, finding Sudabeh weeping bitterly with a scratched face. Seeking truth, the monarch embraced Siyavash and smelled his garments, inhaling only the pure scent of rosewater, whereas Sudabeh reeked of strong wine and heavy musk. Kavus recognized his son's innocence, yet bound by political dread of the King of Hamavaran and his lingering infatuation with Sudabeh, he stayed his blade. Fearing disgraced banishment, Sudabeh turned to wicked sorcery: she bribed a pregnant witch to ingest a vile potion and abort twin monstrous fetuses onto a golden basin, claiming they were Kavus's unborn children murdered by Siyavash's violent assault.

Sorrowful and bewildered, Kavus summoned the grand Mobads and astrologers. Consulting their astrolabes for seven days, the astronomers proclaimed that the dead infants were neither of royal blood nor of the King's seed, but the horrific spawns of a sorceress. Yet, as doubts lingered and Sudabeh's cries filled the palace, the wise counselors advised the ancient ordeal by fire—the infallible judgment where divine light protects the innocent.

Kavus commanded a hundred caravans of camels to haul firewood from the plains, constructing two towering mountains of timber separated by a narrow passage. Black naphtha was poured over the pyres, and two hundred fire-kindlers ignited a blaze so ferocious that the sky turned pitch-black with smoke before igniting into blinding, roaring flames that scorched the desert for leagues.

Prince Siyavash approached his father wearing a golden helmet and clad in immaculate white robes. Fearless and smiling, he mounted his black steed Shabrang Behzad, offering a prayer to the Almighty. Placing his trust in Yazdan, he spurred his horse directly into the blazing furnace of fire. The gathered throngs wept and covered their eyes in terror, while Sudabeh watched eagerly from her high balcony. Suddenly, a thunderous roar of jubilation shattered the sky: Siyavash emerged unscathed from the fire mountain, his white robes unblemished and his steed invigorated, as though he had ridden through a meadow of jasmine. The army showered coins upon his path, and Kavus wept with joy, embracing his blameless son.

Enraged by the queen's monstrosity, King Kavus commanded that Sudabeh be publicly hanged. But the noble Siyavash interceded, begging his father to spare her life so that Kavus would not suffer future remorse. The King pardoned her, yet Sudabeh's heart remained filled with venom and black sorcery, paving the tragical road ahead for the pure prince.
#1
بدین داستان نیز شب برگذشت
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سپهر از بر کوه تیره بگشت
“With this tale, another night passed away, as the dark heavens rotated over the black mountain peak.”
#2
نشست از بر تخت سودابه شاد
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ز یاقوت و زر افسری برنهاد
“Sudabeh sat joyfully upon her throne, placing a crown adorned with rubies and gold upon her head.”
#3
همه دختران را بر خویش خواند
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بیآراست و بر تخت زرین نشاند
“She summoned all the maidens to her presence, adorned them, and seated them upon golden thrones.”
#4
چنین گفت با هیربد ماه‌روی
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کز ایدر برو با سیاوش بگوی
“The moon-faced queen spoke to the chief eunuch: 'Go hence and say unto Siyavash...'”
#5
که باید که رنجه کنی پای خویش
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نمایی مرا سرو بالای خویش
“'...that he must take the trouble to walk here and display his cypress-like stature before me.'”
#6
بشد هیربد با سیاووش گفت
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برآورد پوشیده راز از نهفت
“The eunuch departed and delivered the message to Siyavash, revealing the concealed secret from its hidden depth.”
#7
خرامان بیامد سیاوش برش
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بدید آن نشست و سر و افسرش
“Siyavash arrived gracefully before her, beholding her glorious seating, her head, and her crown.”
#8
به پیشش بتان نوآیین به پای
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تو گفتی بهشت است کاخ و سرای
“Before her stood fresh and dazzling maidens; one would say the palace was Paradise itself.”
#9
فرود آمد از تخت و شد پیش اوی
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به گوهر بیاراسته روی و موی
“She descended from her throne and walked toward him, her hair and face glittering with radiant gems.”
#10
سیاوش بر تخت زرین نشست
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ز پیشش بکش کرده سودابه دست
“Siyavash sat upon the golden throne, while Sudabeh stood reverently before him with crossed arms.”
#11
بتان را به شاه نوآیین نمود
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که بودند چون گوهر نابسود
“She presented to the young prince the maidens, who were untouched like unpolished gems.”
#12
بدو گفت بنگر بدین تخت و گاه
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پرستنده چندین بزرین کلاه
“She said to him: 'Look upon this throne and palace, and these many attendants with golden headwear.'”
#13
همه نارسیده بتان طراز
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که بسرشتشان ایزد از شرم و ناز
“'All these youthful beauties of Taraz, whom God kneaded out of modesty and grace.'”
#14
کسی کت خوش آید ازیشان بگوی
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نگه کن بدیدار و بالای اوی
“'Whichever of them pleases your heart, name her; behold her countenance and stature.'”
#15
سیاوش چو چشم اندکی برگماشت
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ازیشان یکی چشم ازو برنداشت
“Siyavash raised his eyes briefly, yet not one of them took her eyes off him.”
#16
همه یک به دیگر بگفتند ماه
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نیارد بدین شاه کردن نگاه
“They whispered to one another: 'This radiant moon does not even deign to gaze upon the Queen!'”
#17
برفتند هر یک سوی تخت خویش
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ژکان و شمارنده بر بخت خویش
“They withdrew each to her seat, murmurous and pondering their own fortunes.”
#18
چو ایشان برفتند سودابه گفت
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که چندین چه داری سخن در نهفت
“When they departed, Sudabeh said: 'Why do you keep your desire so deeply veiled?'”
#19
نگویی مرا تا مراد تو چیست
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که بر چهر تو فر چهر پریست
“'Will you not tell me your heart's wish? For upon your face shines the glory of a fairy's countenance.'”
#20
هر آن کس که از دور بیند ترا
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شود بیهش و برگزیند ترا
“'Whoever beholds you from afar loses their senses and chooses you above all.'”
#21
ازین خوب رویان بچشم خرد
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نگه کن که با تو که اندر خورد
“'Look with the eye of wisdom upon these maidens and see who is worthy of your embrace.'”
#22
سیاوش فرو ماند و پاسخ نداد
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چنین آمدش بر دل پاک یاد
“Siyavash remained silent and answered not; in his pure heart he reflected:”
#23
که من بر دل پاک شیون کنم
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به آید که از دشمنان زن کنم
“'Better for me to mourn my pure heart than to take a wife from among enemies.'”
#24
شنیدستم از نامور مهتران
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همه داستانهای هاماوران
“'I have heard from renowned chieftains all the dark tales of Hamavaran,'”
#25
که از پیش با شاه ایران چه کرد
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ز گردان ایران برآورد گرد
“'What they did in times past to the King of Iran, bringing low the heroes of Iran.'”
#26
پر از بند سودابه کاو دخت اوست
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نخواهد همی دوده را مغز و پوست
“'Sudabeh, his daughter, is full of deceit; she wishes no good upon our lineage.'”
#27
به پاسخ سیاوش چو بگشاد لب
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پری چهره برداشت از رخ قصب
“As Siyavash opened his lips to respond, the fairy-faced queen lifted her veil from her face.”
#28
بدو گفت خورشید با ماه نو
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گر ایدون که بینند بر گاه نو
“She said to him: 'If the sun and the new moon were to behold each other upon a new throne,'”
#29
نباشد شگفت ار شود ماه خوار
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تو خورشید داری خود اندر کنار
“'It would be no wonder if the moon were forgotten, when you possess the sun by your side.'”
#30
کسی کاو چو من دید بر تخت عاج
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ز یاقوت و پیروزه بر سرش تاج
“'One who beholds someone like me on an ivory throne, crowned with rubies and turquoise,'”
#31
نباشد شگفت ار به مه ننگرد
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کسی را به خوبی به کس نشمرد
“'It is no surprise if he gazes not at the moon, nor considers anyone else fair.'”
#32
اگر با من اکنون تو پیمان کنی
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نپیچی و اندیشه آسان کنی
“'If you make a covenant with me now, turning not away and easing your mind,'”
#33
یکی دختری نارسیده بجای
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کنم چون پرستار پیشت به پای
“'I shall give you my youthful daughter, to stand before you as a devoted handmaid.'”
#34
به سوگند پیمان کن اکنون یکی
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ز گفتار من سر مپیچ اندکی
“'Swear an oath to me now, and stray not one whit from my words.'”
#35
چو بیرون شود زین جهان شهریار
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تو خواهی بدن زو مرا یادگار
“'When the King departs from this world, you shall be his living keepsake to me.'”
#36
نمانی که آید به من بر گزند
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بداری مرا همچو او ارجمند
“'You will let no harm befall me, and you will hold me cherished even as he did.'”
#37
من اینک به پیش تو استاده‌ام
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تن و جان شیرین ترا داده‌ام
“'Behold, I stand here before you; I have surrendered my sweet body and soul to you.'”
#38
ز من هرچ خواهی همه کام تو
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برآرم نپیچم سر از دام تو
“'Whatever you desire of me, I shall fulfill; I shall not turn my head from your snare.'”
#39
سرش تنگ بگرفت و یک پوشه چاک
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بداد و نبود آگه از شرم و باک
“She embraced him tightly and tore a corner of her dress, shameless and unsparing.”
#40
رخان سیاوش چو گل شد ز شرم
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بیاراست مژگان به خوناب گرم
“Siyavash's cheeks flushed like roses with shame, his eyelashes adorned with warm tears of grief.”
#41
چنین گفت با دل که از کار دیو
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مرا دور داراد گیهان خدیو
“Siyavash said to his own heart, 'May the Sovereign of the World keep me far from the deceitful work of the demon!'”
#42
نه من با پدر بیوفایی کنم
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نه با اهرمن آشنایی کنم
“'Neither shall I act unfaithfully toward my father, nor shall I forge a bond with Ahriman.'”
#43
وگر سرد گویم بدین شوخ چشم
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بجوشد دلش گرم گردد ز خشم
“'Yet if I speak harshly to this brazen beauty, her heart will boil over and burn with anger.'”
#44
یکی جادوی سازد اندر نهان
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بدو بگرود شهریار جهان
“'She will secretly weave some sorcery, and the ruler of the world will surely believe her.'”
#45
همان به که با او به آواز نرم
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سخن گویم و دارمش چرب و گرم
“'It is far better that I speak to her with a gentle tone, keeping her appeased with soft and pleasant words.'”
#46
سیاوش ازان پس به سودابه گفت
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که اندر جهان خود تراکیست جفت
“Siyavash then said to Sudabeh, 'Who in all the world could ever be a fitting match for you?'”
#47
نمانی مگر نیمهٔ ماه را
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نشایی به گیتی به جز شاه را
“'You resemble naught but the radiant half-moon; in all the earth, none but the King is worthy of you.'”
#48
کنون دخترت بس که باشد مرا
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نشاید به جز او که باشد مرا
“'Now, your daughter alone is sufficient for me; it is not fitting that any other be my bride.'”
#49
برین باش و با شاه ایران بگوی
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نگه کن که پاسخ چه یابی ازوی
“'Hold fast to this resolve and speak of it to the King of Iran; see then what answer you receive from him.'”
#50
بخواهم من او را و پیمان کنم
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زبان را به نزدت گروگان کنم
“'I shall ask for her hand and plight my troth, leaving my solemn word pledged before you as hostage,'”
#51
که تا او نگردد به بالای من
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نیاید به دیگر کسی رای من
“'That until she grows to match my height as bride, my mind shall never incline toward any other.'”
#52
و دیگر که پرسیدی از چهر من
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بیامیخت با جان تو مهر من
“'And as for what you asked regarding my features, saying your affection has mingled with my soul,'”
#53
مرا آفریننده از فر خویش
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چنان آفرید ای نگارین ز پیش
“'O beautiful lady, the Creator fashioned me from the beginning with His divine glory.'”
#54
تو این راز مگشای و با کس مگوی
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مرا جز نهفتن همان نیست روی
“'Do not unlock this secret nor tell it to anyone, for I have no choice but to keep it concealed.'”
#55
سر بانوانی و هم مهتری
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من ایدون گمانم که تو مادری
“'You are the supreme leader of ladies and noble ones; I deem you truly as a mother to me.'”
#56
بگفت این و غمگین برون شد به در
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ز گفتار او بود آسیمه سر
“He spoke these words and departed sorrowfully through the doorway, his mind dazed and troubled by her talk.”
#57
چو کاووس کی در شبستان رسید
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نگه کرد سودابه او را بدید
“When Kay Kavus arrived at the royal harem, Sudabeh looked up and caught sight of him.”
#58
بر شاه شد زان سخن مژده داد
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ز کار سیاوش بسی کرد یاد
“She hastened to the king and brought glad tidings of that matter, making frequent mention of Siyavash's conduct:”
#59
که آمد نگه کرد ایوان همه
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بتان سیه چشم کردم رمه
“'He came and surveyed the entire palace, where I had gathered a herd of black-eyed beauties.'”
#60
چنان بود ایوان ز بس خوب چهر
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که گفتی همی بارد از ماه مهر
“'So radiant was the palace with fair faces that you would say love streamed down from the moon.'”
#61
جز از دختر من پسندش نبود
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ز خوبان کسی ارجمندش نبود
“'Yet none among the maidens pleased him save my daughter; no other fair lady held any value in his eyes.'”
#62
چنان شاد شد زان سخن شهریار
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که ماه آمدش گفتی اندر کنار
“The sovereign was so overjoyed by her words that you would say the moon itself had come to rest in his embrace.”
#63
در گنج بگشاد و چندان گهر
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ز دیبای زربفت و زرین کمر
“He opened the treasury doors and lavished boundless gems, gold-woven silks, and golden girdles,”
#64
همان یاره و تاج و انگشتری
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همان طوق و هم تخت گنداوری
“As well as armlets, crowns, signet rings, neck-torques, and thrones fit for mighty champions.”
#65
ز هر چیز گنجی بد آراسته
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جهانی سراسر پر از خواسته
“A treasury was adorned with every splendid thing, making the whole world seem filled with riches.”
#66
نگه کرد سودابه خیره بماند
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به اندیشه افسون فراوان بخواند
“Sudabeh looked upon the treasure and stood astonished; in her secret thoughts, she began to conjure many spells,”
#67
که گر او نیاید به فرمان من
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روا دارم ار بگسلد جان من
“'If he does not yield to my command, I would gladly allow my very soul to be torn away!'”
#68
بد و نیک و هر چاره کاندر جهان
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کنند آشکارا و اندر نهان
“'Every good and evil trick, and every device that people use in this world, openly or in secret,'”
#69
بسازم گر او سربپیچد ز من
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کنم زو فغان بر سر انجمن
“'I shall employ if he turns his head from me, and I will raise a loud outcry against him before the whole assembly.'”
#70
نشست از بر تخت باگوشوار
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به سر بر نهاد افسری پرنگار
“She seated herself upon the throne wearing fine earrings, and placed a richly ornamented crown upon her head.”
#71
سیاوخش را در بر خویش خواند
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ز هر گونه با او سخنها براند
“She summoned Siyavash to her side and spoke to him of all manner of things.”
#72
بدو گفت گنجی بیاراست شاه
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کزان سان ندیدست کس تاج و گاه
“She said to him, 'The King has prepared a treasure such that no man has ever seen the like for crown and throne.'”
#73
ز هر چیز چندان که اندازه نیست
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اگر بر نهی پیل باید دویست
“'So immeasurable is it of every precious thing, that to bear it away would require two hundred elephants.'”
#74
به تو داد خواهد همی دخترم
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نگه کن بروی و سر و افسرم
“'He wishes to grant my daughter to you; now look upon my face, my stature, and my crown!'”
#75
بهانه چه داری تو از مهر من
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بپیچی ز بالا و از چهر من
“'What excuse have you to turn away from my love, shunning my tall stature and my beauty?'”
#76
که تا من ترا دیده‌ام برده‌ام
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خروشان و جوشان و آزرده‌ام
“Since the day my eyes first beheld your face, I have lived in torment, weeping and consumed by burning despair.”
#77
همی روز روشن نبینم ز درد
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برآنم که خورشید شد لاجورد
“From the depth of my anguish I no longer see the bright light of day; to my eyes, the very sun has turned dark as lapis lazuli.”
#78
کنون هفت سال‌ست تا مهر من
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همی خون چکاند بدین چهر من
“For seven long years now, my secret love for you has caused tears of blood to stream down my cheeks.”
#79
یکی شاد کن در نهانی مرا
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ببخشای روز جوانی مرا
“Gladden my heart in secret but once, and take pity upon the blooming days of my youth.”
#80
فزون زان که دادت جهاندار شاه
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بیارایمت یاره و تاج و گاه
“Far beyond what the world-conquering King has bestowed upon you, I shall adorn you with armlets, a crown, and a royal throne.”
#81
و گر سر بپیچی ز فرمان من
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نیاید دلت سوی پیمان من
“Yet if you turn your head away from my command, and your heart refuses to yield to my pact,”
#82
کنم بر تو بر پادشاهی تباه
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شود تیره بر روی تو چشم شاه
“I shall bring ruin upon your rule, and turn the King's eyes dark and wrathful against you.”
#83
سیاوش بدو گفت هرگز مباد
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که از بهر دل سر دهم من به باد
“Siyavash answered her, 'May it never be that for the sake of lustful desire I yield my head to the wind!”
#84
چنین با پدر بی‌وفایی کنم
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ز مردی و دانش جدایی کنم
“To act with such betrayal against my father, and separate myself from virtue, honor, and wisdom?'”
#85
تو بانوی شاهی و خورشید گاه
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سزد کز تو ناید بدینسان گناه
“You are the royal Queen and the sun of the throne; it is unfitting that such a sin should originate from you.”
#86
وزان تخت برخاست با خشم و جنگ
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بدو اندر آویخت سودابه چنگ
“Thereupon Siyavash rose from the throne in anger to leave, but Sudabeh clutched at him fiercely with her hands.”
#87
بدو گفت من راز دل پیش تو
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بگفتم نهان از بداندیش تو
“She said to him, 'I disclosed the inner secret of my heart to you, hiding it even from your ill-wishers,”
#88
مرا خیره خواهی که رسوا کنی
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به پیش خردمند رعنا کنی
“And now do you foolishly intend to disgrace me, making me appear deceitful and foolish before the wise?'”
#89
بزد دست و جامه بدرید پاک
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به ناخن دو رخ را همی کرد چاک
“She struck her hands together, tore her garments completely, and slashed both her cheeks with her fingernails.”
#90
برآمد خروش از شبستان اوی
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فغانش ز ایوان برآمد به کوی
“A sudden cry rang out from her inner chambers, and her wailing rose from the palace into the outer streets.”
#91
یکی غلغل از باغ و ایوان بخاست
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که گفتی شب رستخیزست راست
“Such a tumult arose from the garden and the palace that one would say it was truly the Day of Resurrection.”
#92
به گوش سپهبد رسید آگهی
✦
فرود آمد از تخت شاهنشهی
“When word of this turmoil reached the ears of the Monarch, he descended immediately from the royal throne.”
#93
پراندیشه از تخت زرین برفت
✦
به سوی شبستان خرامید تفت
“Full of anxious foreboding, he left the golden throne and hurried swiftly toward the harem.”
#94
بیامد چو سودابه را دید روی
✦
خراشیده و کاخ پر گفت و گوی
“He arrived and saw Sudabeh's face scratched and torn, and the palace filled with commotion and accusations.”
#95
ز هر کس بپرسید و شد تنگ‌دل
✦
ندانست کردار آن سنگ دل
“He questioned everyone with a heavy heart, unaware of the treacherous plot of that heartless woman.”
#96
خروشید سودابه در پیش اوی
✦
همی ریخت آب و همی کند موی
“Sudabeh wailed before him, weeping bitter tears and tearing out her hair.”
#97
چنین گفت کامد سیاوش به تخت
✦
برآراست چنگ و برآویخت سخت
“She claimed, 'Siyavash came upon the couch, reached out his hands, and seized me violently,”
#98
که جز تو نخواهم کسی را ز بن
✦
جز اینت همی راند باید سخن
“Saying: I desire no one else from the heart but you, and your words must be of nothing else,”
#99
که از تست جان و دلم پر ز مهر
✦
چه پرهیزی از من تو ای خوب چهر
“For my heart and soul are brimming with love for you; why do you shrink from me, O fair-faced one?”
#100
بینداخت افسر ز مشکین سرم
✦
چنین چاک شد جامه اندر برم
“He struck the crown from my fragrant hair, and thus tore the garment upon my body!'”
#101
پراندیشه شد زان سخن شهریار
✦
سخن کرد هرگونه را خواستار
“The King grew deeply troubled by these words and sought to thoroughly investigate every aspect of the story.”
#102
به دل گفت ار این راست گوید همی
✦
وزین‌گونه زشتی نجوید همی
“He pondered in his heart, 'If she speaks the truth and has not sought such vileness without cause,”
#103
سیاووش را سر بباید برید
✦
بدینسان بودبند بد را کلید
“Then Siyavash's head must be cut off; for such a key alone can open this evil lock.'”
#104
خردمند مردم چه گوید کنون
✦
خوی شرم ازین داستان گشت خون
“What can a wise man say now? The sweat of shame turned to blood over this sorrowful tale.”
#105
کسی را که اندر شبستان بدند
✦
هشیوار و مهترپرستان بدند
“All those who were inside the harem—wise women and faithful attendants of the nobles—”
#106
گسی کرد و بر گاه تنها بماند
✦
سیاووش و سودابه را پیش خواند
“He dismissed, remaining alone upon the throne, and then summoned Siyavash and Sudabeh before him.”
#107
به هوش و خرد با سیاووش گفت
✦
که این راز بر من نشاید نهفت
“With wisdom and care he said to Siyavash, 'This secret must not be concealed from me.”
#108
نکردی تو این بد که من کرده‌ام
✦
ز گفتار بیهوده آزرده‌ام
“Did you not commit this evil, or was the fault mine? I am deeply aggrieved by this senseless talk.”
#109
چرا خواندم در شبستان ترا
✦
کنون غم مرا بود و دستان ترا
“Why did I ever invite you into the harem? Now the sorrow is mine, and the trouble and suspicion fall upon you.”
#110
کنون راستی جوی و با من بگوی
✦
سخن بر چه سانست بنمای روی
“Now seek the truth and tell it to me clearly; reveal to me how the matter truly stands.'”
#111
سیاووش گفت آن کجا رفته بود
✦
وزان در که سودابه آشفته بود
“Siyavash recounted all that had occurred, and of that matter over which Sudabeh was so distraught.”
#112
چنین گفت سودابه کاین نیست راست
✦
که او از بتان جز تن من نخواست
“Sudabeh spoke thus: 'This is not true! He sought no idol's embrace but my own body.'”
#113
بگفتم همه هرچ شاه جهان
✦
بدو داد خواست آشکار و نهان
“'I told him all that the King of the World wished to bestow upon him, both openly and in secret—'”
#114
ز فرزند و ز تاج وز خواسته
✦
ز دینار وز گنج آراسته
“'Of offspring, crown, wealth, dinars, and magnificent treasures.'”
#115
بگفتم که چندین برین بر نهم
✦
همه نیکویها به دختر دهم
“'I offered to add even more to this, and give every goodness to my daughter.'”
#116
مرا گفت با خواسته کار نیست
✦
به دختر مرا راه دیدار نیست
“'Yet he told me: "I have no care for wealth, nor do I wish to see your daughter!"'”
#117
ترا بایدم زین میان گفت بس
✦
نه گنجم به کارست بی تو نه کس
“'"It is only you I desire in this world; without you, neither treasure nor anyone else matters to me!"'”
#118
مرا خواست کارد به کاری به چنگ
✦
دو دست اندر آویخت چون سنگ تنگ
“'He sought to force me into his embrace, clutching me tightly with both hands like a heavy stone.'”
#119
نکردمش فرمان همی موی من
✦
بکند و خراشیده شد روی من
“'I did not obey his command, so he tore my hair and scratched my face!'”
#120
یکی کودکی دارم اندر نهان
✦
ز پشت تو ای شهریار جهان
“'I carry a child hidden within me, begotten by thee, O Shah of the world!'”
#121
ز بس رنج کشتنش نزدیک بود
✦
جهان پیش من تنگ و تاریک بود
“'From the violence of his struggle, the child was nearly slain, and the world grew dark and narrow before my eyes.'”
#122
چنین گفت با خویشتن شهریار
✦
که گفتار هر دو نیاید به کار
“The King said to himself: 'The mere words of these two cannot settle the truth.'”
#123
برین کار بر نیست جای شتاب
✦
که تنگی دل آرد خرد را به خواب
“'Haste is not fitting in this grave affair, for anguish puts wisdom to sleep.'”
#124
نگه کرد باید بدین در نخست
✦
گواهی دهد دل چو گردد درست
“'First, I must examine this matter carefully; when the truth is clear, the heart will bear witness.'”
#125
ببینم کزین دو گنهکار کیست
✦
ببادافرهٔ بد سزاوار کیست
“'I shall discern which of these two is the sinner, and who deserves the harsh punishment.'”
#126
بدان بازجستن همی چاره جست
✦
ببویید دست سیاوش نخست
“Seeking a way to investigate the truth, he first smelled the hands of Siyavash.”
#127
بر و بازو و سرو بالای او
✦
سراسر ببویید هرجای او
“He smelled his chest, his arms, and tall cypress-like stature, sniffing every part of him.”
#128
ز سودابه بوی می و مشک ناب
✦
همی یافت کاووس بوی گلاب
“From Sudabeh, Kavus smelled wine, pure musk, and the fragrance of rosewater.”
#129
ندید از سیاوش بدان گونه بوی
✦
نشان بسودن نبود اندروی
“He detected no such fragrance upon Siyavash; there was no trace of touch or contact upon him.”
#130
غمی گشت و سودابه را خوار کرد
✦
دل خویشتن را پرآزار کرد
“He grew grieved and held Sudabeh in contempt, while his own heart filled with anguish.”
#131
به دل گفت کاین را به شمشیر تیز
✦
بباید کنون کردنش ریز ریز
“He said in his heart: 'I should slice her into pieces with a sharp sword this very moment!'”
#132
ز هاماوران زان پس اندیشه کرد
✦
که آشوب خیزد پرآواز و درد
“Then he thought of the King of Hamavaran, fearing a painful and chaotic turmoil would arise.”
#133
و دیگر بدانگه که در بند بود
✦
بر او نه خویش و نه پیوند بود
“Secondly, he recalled the time he was held captive, with neither kin nor ally by his side—”
#134
پرستار سودابه بد روز و شب
✦
که پیچید ازان درد و نگشاد لب
“It was Sudabeh who tended to him day and night, suffering in pain without a single complaint.”
#135
سه دیگر که یک دل پر از مهر داشت
✦
ببایست زو هر بد اندر گذاشت
“Thirdly, her heart had once been filled with love for him, so he felt bound to overlook her misdeeds.”
#136
چهارم کزو کودکان داشت خرد
✦
غم خرد را خوار نتوان شمرد
“Fourthly, she bore his young children, and the distress of little ones cannot be lightly dismissed.”
#137
سیاوش ازان کار بد بی‌گناه
✦
خردمندی وی بدانست شاه
“The Shah realized Siyavash was innocent of that evil deed, and recognized his noble wisdom.”
#138
بدو گفت ازین خود میندیش هیچ
✦
هشیواری و رای و دانش بسیچ
“He said to Siyavash: 'Think no more of this at all; summon your prudence, judgment, and wisdom.'”
#139
مکن یاد این هیچ و با کس مگوی
✦
نباید که گیرد سخن رنگ و بوی
“'Mention this to no one and speak not a word of it, lest this story spread and gather rumor.'”
#140
چو دانست سودابه کاو گشت خوار
✦
همان سرد شد بر دل شهریار
“When Sudabeh realized she had fallen into disgrace and lost her place in the King's heart,”
#141
یکی چاره جست اندر آن کار زشت
✦
ز کینه درختی بنوی بکشت
“She sought a trick in that wicked scheme, planting anew a tree of malice and vengeance.”
#142
زنی بود با او سپرده درون
✦
پر از جادوی بود و رنگ و فسون
“There was a woman who was her confidante, versed in sorcery, deceit, and incantations.”
#143
گران بود اندر شکم بچه داشت
✦
همی از گرانی به سختی گذاشت
“This woman was heavily pregnant, passing her days in severe hardship due to her burden.”
#144
بدو راز بگشاد و زو چاره جست
✦
کز آغاز پیمانت خواهم نخست
“Sudabeh revealed her secret to her and sought her help, saying: 'First, I demand a solemn pledge from thee.'”
#145
چو پیمان ستد چیز بسیار داد
✦
سخن گفت ازین در مکن هیچ یاد
“Having secured her oath, Sudabeh showered her with riches, saying: 'Never speak a word of this matter!'”
#146
یکی دارویی ساز کاین بفگنی
✦
تهی مانی و راز من نشکنی
“Prepare a potion so that you may cast these forth, emptying your womb without breaking my secret.”
#147
مگر کاین همه بند و چندین دروغ
✦
بدین بچگان تو باشد فروغ
“So that all these schemes and falsehoods may gain credibility and luster through these offspring of yours.”
#148
به کاووس گویم که این از منند
✦
چنین کشته بر دست اهریمنند
“I shall tell Kay Kavus that these were mine, thus slain at the hands of demonic forces.”
#149
مگر کین شود بر سیاوش درست
✦
کنون چارهٔ این ببایدت جست
“So that this crime may be firmly laid upon Siyavash; now you must devise a remedy for this.”
#150
گرین نشنوی آب من نزد شاه
✦
شود تیره و دور مانم ز گاه
“If you do not heed this, my honor before the king shall be blackened, and I shall be cast far from the throne.”
#151
بدو گفت زن من ترا بنده‌ام
✦
بفرمان و رایت سرافگنده‌ام
“The woman said to her: 'I am your servant, bowing my head to your command and counsel.'”
#152
چو شب تیره شد داروی خورد زن
✦
که بفتاد زو بچهٔ اهرمن
“When the night grew dark, the woman took the medicine, and thus the demonic infants fell from her.”
#153
دو بچه چنان چون بود دیوزاد
✦
چه گونه بود بچه جادو نژاد
“Two infants, just as demonic spawn would be—for how else could the offspring of sorcery appear?”
#154
نهان کرد زن را و او خود بخفت
✦
فغانش برآمد ز کاخ نهفت
“Sudabeh hid the woman and went to sleep herself; then her wailing echoed from the inner palace.”
#155
در ایوان پرستار چندانک بود
✦
به نزدیک سودابه رفتند زود
“All the maidservants who were in the hall hastened quickly to Sudabeh's side.”
#156
یکی طشت زرین بیارید پیش
✦
بگفت آن سخن با پرستار خویش
“They brought forth a golden basin, and she recounted her false tale to her servant.”
#157
نهاد اندران بچهٔ اهرمن
✦
خروشید و بفگند بر جامه تن
“She placed the demon-children into it, wailed aloud, and threw herself upon the bedding.”
#158
دو کودک بدیدند مرده به طشت
✦
از ایوان به کیوان فغان برگذشت
“They beheld the two dead infants in the basin, and wailing rose from the palace to the highest heavens.”
#159
چو بشنید کاووس از ایوان خروش
✦
بلرزید در خواب و بگشاد گوش
“When Kavus heard the clamor from the palace, he trembled in his sleep and listened intently.”
#160
بپرسید و گفتند با شهریار
✦
که چون گشت بر ماه‌رخ روزگار
“He asked, and they told the monarch how fortune had turned dark for the moon-faced queen.”
#161
غمی گشت آن شب نزد هیچ دم
✦
به شبگیر برخاست و آمد دژم
“The king grew grieved and spoke not a word that night; at dawn he arose and came forth sorrowful.”
#162
برانگونه سودابه را خفته دید
✦
سراسر شبستان برآشفته دید
“He saw Sudabeh lying in such a plight, and the entire harem thrown into turmoil.”
#163
دو کودک بران گونه بر طشت زر
✦
فگنده به خواری و خسته جگر
“And the two infants cast wretchedly into the golden basin, their hearts broken and slain.”
#164
ببارید سودابه از دیده آب
✦
بدو گفت روشن ببین آفتاب
“Sudabeh shed tears from her eyes and said to him: 'Look upon the bright sun and see the truth!'”
#165
همی گفت بنگر چه کرد از بدی
✦
به گفتار او خیره ایمن شدی
“She kept saying: 'Behold what evil he has done! You had blindly trusted in his words!'”
#166
دل شاه کاووس شد بدگمان
✦
برفت و در اندیشه شد یک زمان
“King Kavus's heart grew suspicious; he turned away and sank into deep thought for a time.”
#167
همی گفت کاین را چه درمان کنم
✦
نشاید که این بر دل آسان کنم
“He said to himself: 'How shall I remedy this? I must not take this matter lightly upon my heart.'”
#168
ازان پس نگه کرد کاووس شاه
✦
کسی را که کردی به اختر نگاه
“Thereafter, King Kavus sought out those who observed the stars.”
#169
بجست و ز ایشان بر خویش خواند
✦
بپرسید و بر تخت زرین نشاند
“He sought them, summoned them to his presence, questioned them, and seated them upon a golden throne.”
#170
ز سودابه و رزم هاماوران
✦
سخن گفت هرگونه با مهتران
“He spoke of Sudabeh and the war of Hamavaran, discussing every detail with the elders.”
#171
بدان تا شوند آگه از کار اوی
✦
بدانش بدانند کردار اوی
“So that they might become aware of her true nature and decipher her actions through wisdom.”
#172
وزان کودکان نیز بسیار گفت
✦
همی داشت پوشیده اندر نهفت
“He also spoke much regarding those children, yet kept the secret concealed within.”
#173
همه زیج و صرلاب برداشتند
✦
بران کار یک هفته بگذاشتند
“They all took up their astronomical charts and astrolabes, devoting a whole week to that labor.”
#174
سرانجام گفتند کاین کی بود
✦
به جامی که زهر افگنی می بود
“At last they declared: 'How could this be? It is like pouring poison into a goblet of wine!'”
#175
دو کودک ز پشت کسی دیگرند
✦
نه از پشت شاه و نه زین مادرند
“'These two children stem from another man's loins—they belong neither to the king nor to this mother!'”
#176
گر از گوهر شهریاران بدی
✦
ازین زیجها جستن آسان بدی
“'Had they been of royal lineage, finding their truth through these charts would have been easy.'”
#177
نه پیداست رازش درین آسمان
✦
نه اندر زمین این شگفتی بدان
“'Their secret is revealed neither in these heavens nor on the earth; know this to be a strange mystery!'”
#178
نشان بداندیش ناپاک زن
✦
بگفتند با شاه در انجمن
“They disclosed the signs of the evil, impure woman to the king before the assembly.”
#179
نهان داشت کاووس و باکس نگفت
✦
همی داشت پوشیده اندر نهفت
“Kavus kept the secret and spoke to no one, keeping it closely hidden in silence.”
#180
برین کار بگذشت یک هفته نیز
✦
ز جادو جهان را سرآمد قفیز
“Another week passed over this affair, and the measure of the sorceress's deceit came to an end.”
#181
بنالید سودابه و داد خواست
✦
ز شاه جهاندار فریاد خواست
“Sudabeh wailed and demanded justice, crying out for redress from the world-ruling king.”
#182
همی گفت همداستانم ز شاه
✦
به زخم و به افگندن از تخت و گاه
“She kept saying: "I acquiesce to whatever the king decrees, be it lashes or banishment from throne and court."”
#183
ز فرزند کشته بپیچد دلم
✦
زمان تا زمان سر ز تن بگسلم
“"My heart wrings with anguish for my slain children; moment by moment I wish to sever head from body."”
#184
بدو گفت ای زن تو آرام گیر
✦
چه گویی سخنهای نادلپذیر
“The King said to her: "O woman, calm yourself! Why do you utter such intolerable words?"”
#185
همه روزبانان درگاه شاه
✦
بفرمود تا برگرفتند راه
“He commanded all the guards of the royal court to immediately set out on the search.”
#186
همه شهر و برزن به پای آورند
✦
زن بدکنش را بجای آورند
“To scour every city and street thoroughly, and bring that wicked woman to justice.”
#187
به نزدیکی اندر نشان یافتند
✦
جهان دیدگان نیز بشتافتند
“Nearby they discovered her trace, and the experienced men rushed forward to seize her.”
#188
کشیدند بدبخت زن را ز راه
✦
به خواری ببردند نزدیک شاه
“They dragged that wretched woman from the road and brought her in humiliation before the monarch.”
#189
به خوبی بپرسید و کردش امید
✦
بسی روز را داد نیزش نوید
“The king questioned her gently and offered her hope, promising her prosperous days if she spoke the truth.”
#190
وزان پس به خواری و زخم و به بند
✦
به پردخت از او شهریار بلند
“Yet thereafter, with indignity, lashes, and fetters, the exalted king sought to wring the truth from her.”
#191
نبد هیچ خستو بدان داستان
✦
نبد شاه پرمایه همداستان
“She would confess to nothing regarding that story, nor was the noble king convinced by her words.”
#192
بفرمود کز پیش بیرون برند
✦
بسی چاره جویند و افسون برند
“He commanded that she be taken out, and that various remedies and sorceries be employed to break her silence.”
#193
چو خستو نیاید میانش به ار
✦
ببرید و این دانم آیین و فر
“"If she does not confess, cut her waist in two with a saw; for I deem this fit for justice and royal authority."”
#194
ببردند زن را ز درگاه شاه
✦
ز شمشیر گفتند وز دار و چاه
“They led the woman away from the king's presence, threatening her with the sword, the gallows, and the pit.”
#195
چنین گفت جادو که من بی‌گناه
✦
چه گویم بدین نامور پیشگاه
“The sorceress said: "Being innocent, what can I possibly confess before this illustrious court?"”
#196
بگفتند باشاه کاین زن چه گفت
✦
جهان آفرین داند اندر نهفت
“They reported to the king what the woman had said, adding: "The Creator of the world alone knows the secret truth."”
#197
به سودابه فرمود تا رفت پیش
✦
ستاره شمر گفت گفتار خویش
“He ordered Sudabeh to step forward, while the astrologer pronounced his judgment.”
#198
که این هر دو کودک ز جادو زنند
✦
پدیدند کز پشت اهریمنند
“"These two infants belong to the witch; it is evident that they descend from Ahriman's lineage."”
#199
چنین پاسخ آورد سودابه باز
✦
که نزدیک ایشان جز اینست راز
“Sudabeh replied: "According to them, the hidden truth is quite otherwise!"”
#200
فزونستشان زین سخن در نهفت
✦
ز بهر سیاوش نیارند گفت
“"They conceal far more than this in secret, but out of fear of Siyavash, they dare not utter it!"”
#201
ز بیم سپهبد گو پیلتن
✦
بلرزد همی شیر در انجمن
“"For fear of that elephant-bodied commander, even the lion trembles in the assembly!"”
#202
کجا زور دارد به هشتاد پیل
✦
ببندد چو خواهد ره آب نیل
“"He who possesses the strength of eighty elephants, and can block the waters of the Nile whenever he wills!"”
#203
همان لشکر نامور صدهزار
✦
گریزند ازو در صف کارزار
“"Even a famed army of one hundred thousand warriors would flee from him on the battlefield!"”
#204
مرا نیز پایاب او چون بود
✦
مگر دیده همواره پرخون بود
“"How then could I have the strength to withstand him? My eyes can only weep tears of blood endlessly!"”
#205
جزان کاو بفرماید اخترشناس
✦
چه گوید سخن وز که دارد سپاس
“"Apart from what the astrologer decrees, what else can one say, and to whom can gratitude be given?"”
#206
تراگر غم خرد فرزند نیست
✦
مرا هم فزون از تو پیوند نیست
“"If you care not for the grief of your small child, I too have no bond with them greater than yours."”
#207
سخن گر گرفتی چنین سرسری
✦
بدان گیتی افگندم این داوری
“"If you treat this matter so lightly, I shall leave this judgment to the world beyond!"”
#208
ز دیده فزون زان ببارید آب
✦
که بردارد از رود نیل آفتاب
“She wept more tears from her eyes than the sun draws water from the River Nile.”
#209
سپهبد ز گفتار او شد دژم
✦
همی زار بگریست با او بهم
“The commander grew sorrowful at her words, and wept bitterly along with her.”
#210
گسی کرد سودابه را خسته دل
✦
بران کار بنهاد پیوسته دل
“He sent heart-broken Sudabeh away, while his own heart remained bound to this troubling affair.”
#211
چنین گفت کاندر نهان این سخن
✦
پژوهیم تا خود چه آید به بن
“The King said: "We must investigate this matter in secret, to see what outcome finally emerges."”
#212
ز پهلو همه موبدان را بخواند
✦
ز سودابه چندی سخنها براند
“He summoned all the Zoroastrian priests from the province, and discussed Sudabeh's claims at length.”
#213
چنین گفت موبد به شاه جهان
✦
که درد سپهبد نماند نهان
“The chief priest said to the king of the world: "The commander's anguish cannot remain concealed."”
#214
چو خواهی که پیدا کنی گفت‌وگوی
✦
بباید زدن سنگ را بر سبوی
“"If you wish to lay bare the truth of this dispute, you must strike the stone against the pitcher."”
#215
که هر چند فرزند هست ارجمند
✦
دل شاه از اندیشه یابد گزند
“"For though a son is precious, the king's heart suffers greatly from such anguish."”
#216
وزین دختر شاه هاماوران
✦
پر اندیشه گشتی به دیگر کران
“And on the other hand, the King was thrown into deep turmoil and sorrow concerning the daughter of the King of Hamavaran.”
#217
ز هر در سخن چون بدین گونه گشت
✦
بر آتش یکی را بباید گذشت
“When matters came to such a pass on every side, there remained no choice but for one of them to pass through the fire.”
#218
چنین است سوگند چرخ بلند
✦
که بر بیگناهان نیاید گزند
“Such is the sacred oath of the high heavens, that no harm shall ever come upon the innocent.”
#219
جهاندار سودابه را پیش خواند
✦
همی با سیاوش بگفتن نشاند
“The ruler of the world called Sudabeh into his presence and seated her to speak alongside Siyavash.”
#220
سرانجام گفت ایمن از هر دوان
✦
نگردد مرا دل نه روشن روان
“At last he said: 'Neither my heart nor my enlightened soul can find peace concerning either of you,'”
#221
مگر کاتش تیز پیدا کند
✦
گنه کرده را زود رسوا کند
“'Unless the fiery blaze reveals the truth and swiftly brings shame upon the sinner.'”
#222
چنین پاسخ آورد سودابه پیش
✦
که من راست گویم به گفتار خویش
“Sudabeh stepped forward with this reply: 'I speak nothing but the truth in all my words,'”
#223
فگنده دو کودک نمودم بشاه
✦
ازین بیشتر کس نبیند گناه
“'I showed the King the two fallen babes; no one could witness a sin greater than this!'”
#224
سیاووش را کرد باید درست
✦
که این بد بکرد و تباهی بجست
“'It must be proven true against Siyavash that he committed this evil and sought my ruin.'”
#225
به پور جوان گفت شاه زمین
✦
که رایت چه بیند کنون اندرین
“The King of the Earth said to his young son: 'What doth thy judgment advise now in this ordeal?'”
#226
سیاوش چنین گفت کای شهریار
✦
که دوزخ مرا زین سخن گشت خوار
“Siyavash answered: 'O King! Hell itself seems trivial to me in the face of such slander.'”
#227
اگر کوه آتش بود بسپرم
✦
ازین تنگ خوارست اگر بگذرم
“'Were it a mountain of fire, I shall tread through it; passing this narrow trial is easy for me.'”
#228
پراندیشه شد جان کاووس کی
✦
ز فرزند و سودابهٔ نیک‌پی
“The soul of Kai Kavus became burdened with dark thoughts regarding both his son and his fair-omened Sudabeh.”
#229
کزین دو یکی گر شود نابکار
✦
ازان پس که خواند مرا شهریار
“'For if one of these two be proven base, who henceforth would ever address me as sovereign king?'”
#230
چو فرزند و زن باشدم خون و مغز
✦
کرا بیش بیرون شود کار نغز
“'When both child and wife are my own blood and marrow, how can any fair outcome arise from this?'”
#231
همان به کزین زشت کردار دل
✦
بشویم کنم چارهٔ دلگسل
“'Tis better that I cleanse my heart of this vile deed and seek a remedy for this heart-rending affliction.'”
#232
چه گفت آن سپهدار نیکوسخن
✦
که با بددلی شهریاری مکن
“How wisely spake that eloquent commander: 'Do not rule over a kingdom with a faint and doubting heart.'”
#233
به دستور فرمود تا ساروان
✦
هیون آرد از دشت صد کاروان
“He commanded his minister that the camel-drivers bring a hundred caravans of heavy camels from the plain.”
#234
هیونان به هیزم کشیدن شدند
✦
همه شهر ایران به دیدن شدند
“The camels were set to hauling timber, and all the people of Iran gathered to witness the sight.”
#235
به صد کاروان اشتر سرخ موی
✦
همی هیزم آورد پرخاشجوی
“With a hundred caravans of red-haired camels, the warlike king amassed the mountains of firewood.”
#236
نهادند هیزم دو کوه بلند
✦
شمارش گذر کرد بر چون و چند
“They raised the wood into two high mountains, whose vast quantity exceeded all count and measure.”
#237
ز دور از دو فرسنگ هرکش بدید
✦
چنین جست و جوی بلا را کلید
“Whoever beheld it from two leagues away wondered how one could thus seek the key to calamity.”
#238
همی خواست دیدن در راستی
✦
ز کار زن آید همه کاستی
“He sought to uncover the doorway of truth, yet from the wiles of women springs all ruin and shortcoming.”
#239
چو این داستان سر به سر بشنوی
✦
به آید ترا گر بدین بگروی
“When thou hast heard this tale completely, 'twill be better for thee if thou take heed and believe.”
#240
نهادند بر دشت هیزم دو کوه
✦
جهانی نظاره شده هم گروه
“They stacked two mountains of firewood upon the plain, while a whole world stood gathered in throngs to watch.”
#241
گذر بود چندان که گویی سوار
✦
میانه برفتی به تنگی چهار
“The passage between them was so narrow that four horsemen could scarcely ride abreast in the squeeze.”
#242
بدانگاه سوگند پرمایه شاه
✦
چنین بود آیین و این بود راه
“In those days, such was the solemn oath of the glorious king; such was the custom and such was the way.”
#243
وزان پس به موبد بفرمود شاه
✦
که بر چوب ریزند نفط سیاه
“And after that, the King commanded the High Priest to pour black naphtha upon the piles of wood.”
#244
بیامد دو صد مرد آتش‌فروز
✦
دمیدند گفتی شب آمد به روز
“Two hundred fire-kindlers stepped forth and fanned the blaze, until night seemed transformed into day.”
#245
نخستین دمیدن سیه شد ز دود
✦
زبانه برآمد پس از دود زود
“At the first fanning, the sky turned black with smoke; then swiftly behind the smoke leaped up roaring tongues of flame.”
#246
زمین گشت روشنتر از آسمان
✦
جهانی خروشان و آتش دمان
“The earth grew brighter than the sky above, as a whole world wailed while the fire roared fiercely.”
#247
سراسر همه دشت بریان شدند
✦
بران چهر خندانش گریان شدند
“Across the entire plain, hearts roasted with sorrow, weeping in agony for his smiling face.”
#248
سیاوش بیامد به پیش پدر
✦
یکی خود زرین نهاده به سر
“Siyavash advanced into his father's presence, wearing a golden helmet upon his head.”
#249
هشیوار و با جامهای سپید
✦
لبی پر ز خنده دلی پرامید
“Wise and serene, clad in garments of pure white, with a smile upon his lips and a heart filled with hope.”
#250
یکی تازیی بر نشسته سیاه
✦
همی خاک نعلش برآمد به ماه
“Mounted upon a black Arabian steed, whose hooves kicked up dust to the very moon.”
#251
پراگنده کافور بر خویشتن
✦
چنان چون بود رسم و ساز کفن
“Sprinkling camphor upon himself, after the custom and preparation of a shroud.”
#252
بدانگه که شد پیش کاووس باز
✦
فرود آمد از باره بردش نماز
“When he returned before Kavus, he dismounted from his steed and paid him homage.”
#253
رخ شاه کاووس پر شرم دید
✦
سخن گفتنش با پسر نرم دید
“He saw King Kavus's face filled with shame, and heard his speech toward his son turn gentle.”
#254
سیاوش بدو گفت انده مدار
✦
کزین سان بود گردش روزگار
“Siyavash said to him, "Grieve not, for such is the turning of Fate."”
#255
سر پر ز شرم و بهایی مراست
✦
اگر بیگناهم رهایی مراست
“"My head is full of modesty and worth; if I am innocent, deliverance shall be mine."”
#256
ور ایدونک زین کار هستم گناه
✦
جهان آفرینم ندارد نگاه
“"And if indeed I am guilty in this matter, the Creator of the world will not protect me."”
#257
به نیروی یزدان نیکی دهش
✦
کزین کوه آتش نیابم تپش
“"By the power of God the Bestower of Good, I shall feel no heat from this mountain of fire."”
#258
خروشی برآمد ز دشت و ز شهر
✦
غم آمد جهان را ازان کار بهر
“A wail arose from the plain and the city; grief became the world's portion from that affair.”
#259
چو از دشت سودابه آوا شنید
✦
برآمد به ایوان و آتش بدید
“When Sudabeh heard the clamor from the plain, she went up to the balcony and beheld the fire.”
#260
همی خواست کاو را بد آید بروی
✦
همی بود جوشان پر از گفت و گوی
“She wished evil to befall him; she remained boiling with malice and murmuring inside.”
#261
جهانی نهاده به کاووس چشم
✦
زبان پر ز دشنام و دل پر ز خشم
“The whole world fixed its eyes on Kavus, their tongues full of curses and their hearts full of rage.”
#262
سیاوش سپه را به تندی بتاخت
✦
نشد تنگدل جنگ آتش بساخت
“Siyavash galloped his steed swiftly toward the flames; undaunted, he prepared to battle the fire.”
#263
ز هر سو زبانه همی برکشید
✦
کسی خود و اسپ سیاوش ندید
“Flames erupted from every side, so that none could see the helmet or the steed of Siyavash.”
#264
یکی دشت با دیدگان پر ز خون
✦
که تا او کی آید ز آتش برون
“A whole plain of onlookers stood with weeping eyes, waiting to see when he would emerge from the fire.”
#265
چو او را بدیدند برخاست غو
✦
که آمد ز آتش برون شاه نو
“When they saw him emerge, a roar went up: "The new prince has come forth unhurt from the flames!"”
#266
اگر آب بودی مگر تر شدی
✦
ز تری همه جامه بی‌بر شدی
“Had it been water, he might have been drenched, and all his robes rendered heavy with wetness.”
#267
چنان آمد اسپ و قبای سوار
✦
که گفتی سمن داشت اندر کنار
“The steed and the rider's robe came forth as fresh as though he carried jasmine in his lap.”
#268
چو بخشایش پاک یزدان بود
✦
دم آتش و آب یکسان بود
“When the mercy of pure God is present, the breath of fire and water are one and the same.”
#269
چو از کوه آتش به هامون گذشت
✦
خروشیدن آمد ز شهر و ز دشت
“As he passed through the mountain of fire into the plain, shouting of joy arose from city and wilderness.”
#270
سواران لشکر برانگیختند
✦
همه دشت پیشش درم ریختند
“The horsemen of the army spurred forward, scattering silver coins across the plain before him.”
#271
یکی شادمانی بد اندر جهان
✦
میان کهان و میان مهان
“Such rejoicing filled the world, alike among the humble and the great.”
#272
همی داد مژده یکی را دگر
✦
که بخشود بر بیگنه دادگر
“They bore good tidings to one another, that the Just Judge had shown mercy upon the innocent.”
#273
همی کند سودابه از خشم موی
✦
همی ریخت آب و همی خست روی
“Sudabeh tore her hair in rage, shedding tears and scratching her own face.”
#274
چو پیش پدر شد سیاووش پاک
✦
نه دود و نه آتش نه گرد و نه خاک
“When pure Siyavash came before his father, there was on him no smoke, nor fire, nor dust, nor soil.”
#275
فرود آمد از اسپ کاووس شاه
✦
پیاده سپهبد پیاده سپاه
“King Kavus dismounted from his horse; on foot stood the commander, and on foot stood the army.”
#276
سیاووش را تنگ در برگرفت
✦
ز کردار بد پوزش اندر گرفت
“He clasped Siyavash tightly in his embrace and begged forgiveness for his evil conduct.”
#277
سیاوش به پیش جهاندار پاک
✦
بیامد بمالید رخ را به خاک
“Siyavash came before the pure Ruler of the World and rubbed his cheek upon the earth in praise.”
#278
که از تف آن کوه آتش برست
✦
همه کامهٔ دشمنان گشت پست
“Thanking Him that he escaped the heat of that mountain of fire, and all the desires of his foes were humbled.”
#279
بدو گفت شاه ای دلیر جوان
✦
که پاکیزه تخمی و روشن روان
“The king said to him, "O brave youth, who art of pure lineage and luminous spirit!”
#280
چنانی که از مادر پارسا
✦
بزاید شود در جهان پادشا
“"Thou art such a one as is born of a chaste mother to become a monarch in the world."”
#281
به ایوان خرامید و بنشست شاد
✦
کلاه کیانی به سر برنهاد
“He entered the palace and sat down in joy, placing the Kayanian crown upon his head.”
#282
می آورد و رامشگران را بخواند
✦
همه کامها با سیاوش براند
“Wine was brought, minstrels were summoned, and he granted every desire to Siyavash.”
#283
سه روز اندر آن سور می در کشید
✦
نبد بر در گنج بند و کلید
“For three days in that feast he drank wine, while the treasure doors were left unlocked and open.”
#284
چهارم به تخت کیی برنشست
✦
یکی گُرزهٔ گاو پیکر به دست
“On the fourth day he ascended the Kayanian throne, holding an ox-headed mace in his hand.”
#285
برآشفت و سودابه را پیش خواند
✦
گذشت سخنها برو بر براند
“Enraged, he summoned Sudabeh before him and recounted to her all that had passed.”
#286
که بی‌شرمی و بد بسی کرده‌ای
✦
فراوان دل من بیازرده‌ای
“You have committed many shameless and evil deeds, and have deeply wounded my heart.”
#287
یکی بد نمودی به فرجام کار
✦
که بر جان فرزند من زینهار
“At the final outcome, you committed such a villainy, showing no mercy even towards my own son's life.”
#288
بخوردی و در آتش انداختی
✦
برین گونه بر جادویی ساختی
“You swore false oaths, cast him into the fire, and wove such sorcery against him.”
#289
نیاید ترا پوزش اکنون به کار
✦
بپرداز جای و برآرای کار
“No apology shall serve you now; vacate your place and prepare yourself for punishment.”
#290
نشاید که باشی تو اندر زمین
✦
جز آویختن نیست پاداش این
“It is unfit that you remain upon this earth; hanging alone is the fitting reward for this.”
#291
بدو گفت سودابه کای شهریار
✦
تو آتش بدین تارک من ببار
“Sudabeh said to him: 'O King! Rain down fire upon my head if you so desire!'”
#292
مرا گر همی سر بباید برید
✦
مکافات این بد که بر من رسید
“'Even if my head must be severed as retribution for the calamity that befell me,'”
#293
بفرمای و من دل نهادم برین
✦
نبود آتش تیز با او به کین
“'Command it, for I have set my heart upon it! Yet the fierce fire did not burn him out of hatred for me.'”
#294
سیاوش سخن راست گوید همی
✦
دل شاه از غم بشوید همی
“'Siyavash speaks true words indeed, and washes the King's heart clean of grief.'”
#295
همه جادوی زال کرد اندرین
✦
نخواهم که داری دل از من بکین
“'All of this was the sorcery of Zal! I desire not that your heart hold a grudge against me.'”
#296
بدو گفت نیرنگ داری هنوز
✦
نگردد همی پشت شوخیت کوز
“He replied to her: 'You still harbor deceit, and the spine of your impudence bends not!'”
#297
به ایرانیان گفت شاه جهان
✦
کزین بد که این ساخت اندر نهان
“The King of the world said to the Iranians: 'Regarding this evil she wrought in secret,'”
#298
چه سازم چه باشد مکافات این
✦
همه شاه را خواندند آفرین
“'What shall I do, and what is its fitting punishment?' They all showered praise upon the King,”
#299
که پاداش این آنکه بیجان شود
✦
ز بد کردن خویش پیچان شود
“Saying: 'The retribution for this is that she lose her life and suffer in agony for her evil deeds!'”
#300
به دژخیم فرمود کاین را به کوی
✦
ز دار اندر آویز و برتاب روی
“He ordered the executioner: 'Hang her upon the gallows in the public square, and turn your face away!'”
#301
چو سودابه را روی برگاشتند
✦
شبستان همه بانگ برداشتند
“When they led Sudabeh away, a tumult of cries arose throughout the royal harem.”
#302
دل شاه کاووس پردرد شد
✦
نهان داشت رنگ رخش زرد شد
“King Kavus's heart turned bitter with pain; though he concealed it, his countenance turned pale.”
#303
سیاوش چنین گفت با شهریار
✦
که دل را بدین کار رنجه مدار
“Siyavash spoke thus to the Sovereign: 'Torment not your heart over this matter;'”
#304
به من بخش سودابه را زین گناه
✦
پذیرد مگر پند و آید به راه
“'Pardon Sudabeh's sin for my sake; perhaps she will accept counsel and mend her ways.'”
#305
همی گفت با دل که بر دست شاه
✦
گر ایدون که سودابه گردد تباه
“He reflected in his heart: 'If Sudabeh should perish at the King's own hands,'”
#306
به فرجام کار او پشیمان شود
✦
ز من بیند او غم چو پیچان شود
“'In the end, the King will regret it, and in his torment, he will view me with bitterness.'”
#307
بهانه همی جست زان کار شاه
✦
بدان تا ببخشد گذشته گناه
“Thus he sought a pretext regarding the King's intent, so that he might forgive her past transgressions.”
#308
سیاووش را گفت بخشیدمش
✦
ازان پس که خون ریختن دیدمش
“The King said to Siyavash: 'I have pardoned her for your sake, after seeing her readiness for bloodshed.'”
#309
سیاوش ببوسید تخت پدر
✦
وزان تخت برخاست و آمد بدر
“Siyavash kissed his father's throne, rose from that royal seat, and went forth.”
#310
شبستان همه پیش سودابه باز
✦
دویدند و بردند او را نماز
“The women of the harem all ran once more before Sudabeh, bowing down in homage to her.”
#311
برین گونه بگذشت یک روزگار
✦
برو گرمتر شد دل شهریار
“In this manner a period of time elapsed, and the Sovereign's heart grew even warmer toward her.”
#312
چنان شد دلش باز از مهر اوی
✦
که دیده نه برداشت از چهر اوی
“His heart was so captivated anew by love for her that he could not tear his eyes away from her face.”
#313
دگر باره با شهریار جهان
✦
همی جادوی ساخت اندر نهان
“Once again, she secretly wove sorcery and craft upon the monarch of the world,”
#314
بدان تا شود با سیاووش بد
✦
بدانسان که از گوهر او سزد
“So that he might turn malevolent toward Siyavash, in a manner suited to her vile nature.”
#315
ز گفتار او شاه شد در گمان
✦
نکرد ایچ بر کس پدید از مهان
“Through her words, the King fell into suspicion, yet revealed nothing to any of his nobles.”
#316
بجایی که کاری چنین اوفتاد
✦
خرد باید و دانش و دین و داد
“Where such a dire predicament occurs, wisdom, knowledge, faith, and justice are required.”
#317
چنان چون بود مردم ترسکار
✦
برآید به کام دل مرد کار
“Only when one acts with God-fearing caution will the man of action attain his heart's desire.”
#318
بجایی که زهر آگند روزگار
✦
ازو نوش خیره مکن خواستار
“Where Time has poured forth poison, do not vainly demand sweet nectar from it.”
#319
تو با آفرینش بسنده نه‌ای
✦
مشو تیز گر پرورنده نه‌ای
“You are no match for Creation itself; grow not fierce if you are not its Sustainer.”
#320
چنین‌ست کردار گردان سپهر
✦
نخواهد گشادن همی بر تو چهر
“Such is the way of the revolving sphere; it shall never unveil a friendly face unto you.”
#321
برین داستان زد یکی رهنمون
✦
که مهری فزون نیست از مهر خون
“A wise guide once struck a key upon this truth: no love excels the deep affection of blood.”
#322
چو فرزند شایسته آمد پدید
✦
ز مهر زنان دل بباید برید
“When a worthy child comes forth into the light, one ought to sever one's heart from the allure of women.”

Distich Annotation & Lore

English Translation:

Modern Interpretation:

Literary & Narrative Dimensions:
Entities Identified:
The Guide
Companion of Epic Lore & Ferdowsi’s Shahnameh
Greetings, seeker of ancient lore! I am The Guide, your companion through the heroes, monarchs, mythical creatures, and timeless verses of the Shahnameh. Ask me anything about the epic tradition.
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