#1
هیونی بیاراست کاووس شاه
✦
بفرمود تا بازگردد به راه
“King Kay Kavus prepared a swift messenger-camel and ordered him to set out upon the road.”
#2
نویسندهٔ نامه را پیش خواند
✦
به کرسی زر پیکرش برنشاند
“He summoned the royal scribe before him and seated him upon a throne decorated with gold.”
#3
یکی نامه فرمود پر خشم و جنگ
✦
زبان تیز و رخساره چون بادرنگ
“He commanded a letter to be written, brimming with rage and war, sharp of tongue and bitter as wild citron.”
#4
نخست آفرین کرد بر کردگار
✦
خداوند آرامش و کارزار
“First, he offered praise unto the Creator, the Lord of peace and battle,”
#5
خداوند بهرام و کیوان و ماه
✦
خداوند نیک و بد و فر و جاه
“Lord of Mars, Saturn, and the Moon, Lord of good and evil, divine glory and grand estate.”
#6
بفرمان اویست گردان سپهر
✦
ازو بازگسترده هرجای مهر
“By His command rotates the turning sphere, and from Him is love spread across all places.”
#7
ترا ای جوان تندرستی و بخت
✦
همیشه بماناد با تاج و تخت
“'May health and good fortune ever abide with thee, young man, along with crown and throne.”
#8
اگر بر دلت رای من تیره گشت
✦
ز خواب جوانی سرت خیره گشت
“If thy mind hath grown dark to my intent, and thy head dazed by the slumber of youth,”
#9
شنیدی که دشمن به ایران چه کرد
✦
چو پیروز شد روزگار نبرد
“Hast thou heard what the enemy did to Iran when the day of battle turned in their favor?”
#10
کنون خیره آزرم دشمن مجوی
✦
برین بارگه بر مبر آبروی
“Now do not foolishly seek affection from the foe, nor shame our royal throne in this wise.”
#11
منه با جوانی سر اندر فریب
✦
گر از چرخ‌گردان نخواهی نهیب
“Do not give thy head over to deception in thy youth, lest thou face the terror of the turning heavens.”
#12
که من زان فریبنده گفتار او
✦
بسی بازگشتم ز پیکار او
“For I too, misled by his deceitful words, have often turned away from battle with him.”
#13
ترا گر فریبد نباشد شگفت
✦
مرا از خود اندازه باید گرفت
“If he deceives thee, it is no wonder; yet I must know my own measure from past trials.”
#14
نرفت ایچ با من سخن ز آشتی
✦
ز فرمان من روی برگاشتی
“No word of peace was ever agreed to by me, yet thou hast turned thy face away from my command.”
#15
همان رستم از گنج آراسته
✦
نخواهد شدن سیر از خواسته
“Likewise Rostam, though laden with riches, will never grow sated of wealth and desire.”
#16
ازان مردری تاج شاهنشهی
✦
ترا شد سر از جنگ جستن تهی
“From that heritage of the royal crown, thy mind hath grown empty of seeking war.”
#17
در بی‌نیازی به شمشیر جوی
✦
به کشور بود شاه را آبروی
“Seek the gate of independence through the sword, for thereby does a king find glory in his land.”
#18
چو طوس سپهبد رسد پیش تو
✦
بسازد چو باید کم و بیش تو
“When General Tus arrives before thee, he shall arrange all matters as they ought to be.”
#19
گروگان که داری به بند گران
✦
هم اندر زمان بارکن بر خران
“The hostages thou holdest in heavy chains—bind them at once upon pack-donkeys and send them forth.”
#20
پرستار وز خواسته هرچ هست
✦
به زودی مر آن را به درگه فرست
“Servants, treasures, and whatever else there is—send it all swiftly to my court.”
#21
تو شوکین و آویختن را بساز
✦
ازین در سخنها مگردان دراز
“Prepare thyself for hatred and battle, and prolix words no further upon this matter.”
#22
چو تو ساز جنگ شبیخون کنی
✦
ز خاک سیه رود جیحون کنی
“When thou settest the gear for a night attack, thou shalt turn the Jayhun river into black earth and blood.”
#23
سپهبد سراندر نیارد به خواب
✦
بیاید به جنگ تو افراسیاب
“The Turanian warlord shall not lay his head to sleep; Afrasiab himself will march out to wage battle against thee.”
#24
و گر مهر داری بران اهرمن
✦
نخواهی که خواندت پیمان شکن
“And if thou holdest love for that demon-king, and wilt not have men call thee a treaty-breaker,”
#25
سپه طوس رد را ده و بازگرد
✦
نه‌ای مرد پرخاش روز نبرد
“Hand the army over to noble Tus and return, for thou art no man of strife in the day of battle.”
#26
تو با خوبرویان برآمیختی
✦
به بزم اندر از رزم بگریختی
“Thou hast consorted with fair maidens, fleeing from the battlefield into the feast.'”
#27
نهادند بر نامه بر مهر شاه
✦
هیون پر برآورد و ببرید راه
“They placed the royal seal upon the letter; the swift camel sped forth like a bird on its path.”
#28
چو نامه به نزد سیاوش رسید
✦
بران گونه گفتار ناخوب دید
“When the letter reached Siyavash, he saw such harsh and unseemly words within it.”
#29
فرستاده را خواند و پرسید چست
✦
ازو کرد یکسر سخنها درست
“He called the messenger and questioned him closely, verifying every word from his lips.”
#30
بگفت آنک با پیلتن رفته بود
✦
ز طوس و ز کاووس کاشفته بود
“The messenger related all that had occurred with elephant-bodied Rostam, and how Tus and Kavus were enraged.”
#31
سیاوش چو بشنید گفتار اوی
✦
ز رستم غمی گشت و برتافت روی
“When Siyavash heard his words, he grew grieved for Rostam's sake and turned his face in sorrow.”
#32
ز کار پدر دل پراندیشه کرد
✦
ز ترکان و از روزگار نبرد
“His heart grew weighed down with care over his father's actions, the Turanians, and the impending day of strife.”
#33
همی گفت صد مرد ترک و سوار
✦
ز خویشان شاهی چنین نامدار
“He mused, 'One hundred Turkish chieftains and noble knights, all kinsmen of such a renowned king,”
#34
همه نیک خواه و همه بی‌گناه
✦
اگرشان فرستم به نزدیک شاه
“All well-wishers and all innocent—if I send them to the king,”
#35
نپرسد نه اندیشد از کارشان
✦
همانگه کند زنده بر دارشان
“He will not question nor reflect upon their case, but instantly hang them alive upon the gallows.”
#36
به نزدیک یزدان چه پوزش برم
✦
بد آید ز کار پدر بر سرم
“What excuse can I bring before God? Evil shall surely encompass me due to my father's misdeeds.”
#37
ور ایدونک جنگ آورم بی‌گناه
✦
چنان خیره با شاه توران سپاه
“And if I wage war without cause, so foolishly against the army of the King of Turan,”
#38
جهاندار نپسندد این بد ز من
✦
گشایند بر من زبان انجمن
“The Sovereign of the world will not approve this evil from me, and the world's assembly will open their tongues in blame.”
#39
وگر بازگردم به نزدیک شاه
✦
به طوس سپهبد سپارم سپاه
“And if I return to the king and hand over the army to General Tus,”
#40
ازو نیز هم بر تنم بد رسد
✦
چپ و راست بد بینم و پیش بد
“From him too shall harm come upon my body; left and right, before me, I see naught but ill.”
#41
نیاید ز سودابه خود جز بدی
✦
ندانم چه خواهد رسید ایزدی
“From Sudabeh comes naught but malice; I know not what Divine Destiny hath ordained for me.'”
#42
دو تن را ز لشکر ز کندآوران
✦
چو بهرام و چون زنگهٔ شاوران
“He summoned two of the brave champions of the army, Bahram and Zangeh-ye Shavaran,”
#43
بران رازشان خواند نزدیک خویش
✦
بپرداخت ایوان و بنشاند پیش
“He shared his secret with them in his private court, cleared the palace, and sat them before him.”
#44
که رازش به هم بود با هر دو تن
✦
ازان پس که رستم شد از انجمن
“For he shared his secrets with both of them after Rostam had departed from the assembly.”
#45
بدیشان چنین گفت کز بخت بد
✦
فراوان همی بر تنم بد رسد
“He said to them: 'Through evil fortune, endless misfortune ever falls upon my head.”
#46
بدان مهربانی دل شهریار
✦
بسان درختی پر از برگ و بار
“The king's heart was once filled with tender affection for me, like a tree laden with lush leaves and fruit.”
#47
چو سودابه او را فریبنده گشت
✦
تو گفتی که زهر گزاینده گشت
“But when Sudabeh beguiled him, that love turned, as it were, into biting venom.”
#48
شبستان او گشت زندان من
✦
غمی شد دل و بخت خندان من
“His royal inner quarters became my prison; my heart grew heavy with sorrow, and my once-smiling fortune turned mournful.”
#49
چنین رفت بر سر مرا روزگار
✦
که با مهر او آتش آورد بار
“Fate dealt with me in such a manner that his love bore nothing but the fire of affliction.”
#50
گزیدم بدان شوربختیم جنگ
✦
مگر دور مانم ز چنگ نهنگ
“In my ill fortune, I chose war, hoping thereby to escape the clutches of that dragon.”
#51
به بلخ اندرون بود چندان سپاه
✦
سپهبد چو گرسیوز کینه‌خواه
“In Balkh there was a mighty army, commanded by the vengeful chieftain Garsivaz.”
#52
نشسته به سغد اندرون شهریار
✦
پر از کینه با تیغ زن صدهزار
“The Turanian king abode in Sogdia, filled with hatred and backed by a hundred thousand swordsmen.”
#53
برفتیم بر سان باد دمان
✦
نجستیم در جنگ ایشان زمان
“We charged forth like a rushing storm, granting them no respite in the battle.”
#54
چو کشور سراسر بپرداختند
✦
گروگان و آن هدیه‌ها ساختند
“When they entirely evacuated the land, they offered hostages and sent rich tributes.”
#55
همه موبدان آن نمودند راه
✦
که ما بازگردیم زین رزم‌گاه
“All the wise priests counseled that we should now depart from this battlefield.”
#56
پسندش نیامد همی کار من
✦
بکوشد به رنج و به آزار من
“Yet my actions met not with the king's approval; he strives only to inflict hardship and pain upon me.”
#57
به خیره همی جنگ فرمایدم
✦
بترسم که سوگند بگزایدم
“He foolishly commands me to resume war, but I fear the divine wrath for breaking my oath.”
#58
وراگر ز بهر فزونیست جنگ
✦
چو گنج آمد و کشور آمد به چنگ
“If he wages war merely for conquest and gain, the treasure and territory are already won.”
#59
چه باید همی خیره خون ریختن
✦
چنین دل به کین اندر آویختن
“Why should blood be shed in vain, and why cling so fiercely to malice and revenge?”
#60
همی سر ز یزدان نباید کشید
✦
فراوان نکوهش بباید شنید
“One must not disobey God Almighty, even if one must endure endless reproach from men.”
#61
دو گیتی همی برد خواهد ز من
✦
بمانم به کام دل اهرمن
“Otherwise He will rob me of both this world and the next, and I shall fall into the clutches of Ahriman's desire.”
#62
نزادی مرا کاشکی مادرم
✦
وگر زاد مرگ آمدی بر سرم
“Would that my mother had never given me birth, or that death had taken me as soon as I was born!”
#63
که چندین بلاها بباید کشید
✦
ز گیتی همی زهر باید چشید
“That I might not have to endure such countless calamities, nor swallow the poison of this world.”
#64
بدین گونه پیمان که من کرده‌ام
✦
به یزدان و سوگندها خورده‌ام
“With such a solemn covenant that I have forged, swearing sacred oaths before God,”
#65
اگر سر بگردانم از راستی
✦
فراز آید از هر سوی کاستی
“If I turn away from truth and righteousness, ruin and ruinous loss shall beset me from every side.”
#66
پراگنده شد در جهان این سخن
✦
که با شاه ترکان فگندیم بن
“The news has spread throughout the world that we have laid the foundation of peace with the king of Turan.”
#67
زبان برگشایند هر کس به بد
✦
به هرجای بر من چنان چون سزد
“Everyone everywhere would open their tongues to revile me, condemning me as I would justly deserve.”
#68
به کین بازگشتن بریدن ز دین
✦
کشیدن سر از آسمان و زمین
“To revert to hostility is to sever ties with true faith, and to rebel against both heaven and earth.”
#69
چنین کی پسندد ز من کردگار
✦
کجا بر دهد گردش روزگار
“How could the Almighty Creator tolerate such a deed from me? How could the turning of time bear good fruit from it?”
#70
شوم کشوری جویم اندر جهان
✦
که نامم ز کاووس ماند نهان
“I shall go and seek out a land in the world where my name may remain hidden from Kavus.”
#71
که روشن زمانه بران سان بود
✦
که فرمان دادار گیهان بود
“For the bright world is governed in accordance with the decree of the Creator of the universe.”
#72
سری کش نباشد ز مغز آگهی
✦
نه از بتری باز داند بهی
“A head lacking wisdom and discernment cannot distinguish evil from goodness.”
#73
قباد آمد و رفت و گیتی سپرد
✦
ورا نیز هم رفته باید شمرد
“Qobad came, departed, and left the world behind; Kavus too must soon be reckoned among the gone.”
#74
تو ای نامور زنگه شاوران
✦
بیارای تن را به رنج گران
“O renowned Zangeh-ye Shavaran, prepare yourself for an arduous journey!”
#75
برو تا به درگاه افرسیاب
✦
درنگی مباش و منه سر به خواب
“Go at once to the court of Afrasiab; do not delay, nor rest your head in sleep.”
#76
گروگان و این خواسته هرچ هست
✦
ز دینار و ز تاج و تخت نشست
“Take all the hostages and wealth—the gold, the crowns, and the thrones—”
#77
ببر همچنین جمله تا پیش اوی
✦
بگویش که ما را چه آمد به روی
“Take them all before him, and relate to him all that has befallen us.”
#78
بفرمود بهرام گودرز را
✦
که این نامور لشکر و مرز را
“Then he commanded Bahram, son of Gudarz: As for this illustrious army and frontier,”
#79
سپردم ترا گنج و پیلان کوس
✦
بمان تا بیاید سپهدار طوس
“I entrust to you the treasure, the war elephants, and drums; remain until Tus, the army commander, arrives.”
#80
بدو ده تو این لشکر و خواسته
✦
همه کارها یکسر آراسته
“Deliver to him this army and all the wealth, with every matter fully arranged and in order.”
#81
یکایک برو بر شمر هرچ هست
✦
ز گنج و ز تاج و ز تخت نشست
“Tally up for him every single thing that is here—from the treasure, the crown, and the royal throne.”
#82
چو بهرام بشنید گفتار اوی
✦
دلش گشت پیچان به تیمار اوی
“When Bahram heard his words, his heart twisted with grief and anguish for him.”
#83
ببارید خون زنگهٔ شاوران
✦
بنفرید بر بوم هاماوران
“Zangeh, son of Shavaran, wept tears of blood and cursed the land of Hamavaran.”
#84
پر از غم نشستند هر دو به هم
✦
روانشان ز گفتار او شد دژم
“Full of sorrow, both sat together, their souls darkened and troubled by his words.”
#85
بدو باز گفتند کاین رای نیست
✦
ترا بی‌پدر در جهان جای نیست
“They said back to him, "This is no wise counsel; you have no place in this world without your father."”
#86
یکی نامه بنویس نزدیک شاه
✦
دگر باره زو پیلتن را بخواه
“"Write another letter to the king, and request the elephant-bodied hero from him once more."”
#87
اگر جنگ فرمان دهد جنگ ساز
✦
مکن خیره اندیشهٔ دل دراز
“"If he commands war, prepare for battle; do not let your heart brood in vain over long thoughts."”
#88
مگردان به ما بر دژم روزگار
✦
چو آمد درخت بزرگی به بار
“"Do not turn fortune dark upon us, now that the tree of your greatness has borne fruit."”
#89
نپذرفت زان دو خردمند پند
✦
دگرگونه بد راز چرخ بلند
“He accepted not the counsel of those two wise men, for the secret of the high heavens was ordained otherwise.”
#90
چنین داد پاسخ که فرمان شاه
✦
برانم که برتر ز خورشید و ماه
“He answered thus: "I hold the king's command to be higher than the sun and moon."”
#91
ولیکن به فرمان یزدان دلیر
✦
نباشد ز خاشاک تا پیل و شیر
“"Yet against the decree of God, none may be bold—from the smallest speck of dust to the elephant and lion."”
#92
کسی کاو ز فرمان یزدان بتافت
✦
سراسیمه شد خویشتن را نیافت
“"Whoever turns away from God's command becomes bewildered and loses his own soul."”
#93
همی دست یازید باید به خون
✦
به کین دو کشور بدن رهنمون
“"Must I now stain my hands with blood, and lead the way to vengeful strife between two lands?"”
#94
وزان پس که داند کزین کارزار
✦
کرا برکشد گردش روزگار
“"And beyond that, who knows whom the turning of fortune will exalt from this battlefield?"”
#95
ز بهر نوا هم بیازارد او
✦
سخنهای گم کرده بازآرد او
“"For the sake of a minor benefit he will inflict pain, and bring up long-forgotten grievances."”
#96
همان خشم و پیگار بار آورد
✦
سرشک غم اندر کنار آورد
“"Thus anger and conflict yield their bitter fruit, bringing tears of sorrow into one's lap."”
#97
اگر تیره‌تان شد دل از کار من
✦
بپیچید سرتان ز گفتار من
“"If your hearts are darkened by my plight, then turn your heads away from my words."”
#98
فرستاده خود باشم و رهنمای
✦
بمانم برین دشت پرده‌سرای
“"I shall be my own messenger and guide, leaving behind my pavilions upon this plain."”
#99
سیاوش چو پاسخ چنین داد باز
✦
بپژمرد جان دو گردن فراز
“When Siyavash gave such an answer in return, the spirits of the two proud chieftains withered away.”
#100
ز بیم جداییش گریان شدند
✦
چو بر آتش تیز بریان شدند
“In dread of separation from him, they wept, roasting as if cast upon a fierce fire.”
#101
همی دید چشم بد روزگار
✦
که اندر نهان چیست با شهریار
“The evil eye of fate was watching, knowing full well what lay hidden in secret for the prince.”
#102
نخواهد بدن نیز دیدار او
✦
ازان چشم گریان شد از کار او
“That they would never gaze upon his face again—for that reason, eyes wept bitterly over his fate.”
#103
چنین گفت زنگه که ما بنده‌ایم
✦
به مهر سپهبد دل آگنده‌ایم
“Thus spoke Zangeh: "We are your servants, our hearts filled with love for our commander."”
#104
فدای تو بادا تن و جان ما
✦
چنین باد تا مرگ پیمان ما
“"May our bodies and souls be sacrificed for you; let this covenant endure until our death."”
#105
چو پاسخ چنین یافت از نیکخواه
✦
چنین گفت با زنگه بیدار شاه
“Receiving such an answer from his well-wisher, the vigilant prince spoke thus to Zangeh:”
#106
که رو شاه توران سپه را بگوی
✦
که زین کار ما را چه آمد بروی
“"Go, say unto the king of the Turanian host, how matters have unfolded for us in this affair:"”
#107
ازین آشتی جنگ بهر منست
✦
همه نوش تو درد و زهر منست
“"From this peace, war has become my portion; all your sweet nectar has turned into my sorrow and poison."”
#108
ز پیمان تو سر نگردد تهی
✦
وگر دور مانم ز تخت مهی
“"I shall not turn my head away from my covenant with you, even if I remain far removed from the throne of greatness."”
#109
جهاندار یزدان پناه منست
✦
زمین تخت و گردون کلاه منست
“"The Lord of the world is my refuge; the earth is my throne, and the heavens are my crown."”
#110
و دیگر که بر خیره ناکرده کار
✦
نشایست رفتن بر شهریار
“"And furthermore, having accomplished nothing, it was not fitting for me to return in vain to the king."”
#111
یکی راه بگشای تا بگذرم
✦
بجایی که کرد ایزد آبشخورم
“"Open a path so that I may pass through to wherever God has ordained my fate."”
#112
یکی کشوری جویم اندر جهان
✦
که نامم ز کاووس ماند نهان
“"I will seek a realm in this world where my name shall remain hidden from Kavus."”
#113
ز خوی بد او سخن نشنوم
✦
ز پیگار او یک زمان بغنوم
“"Where I need not hear of his ill nature, and may rest for a moment away from his strife."”
#114
بشد زنگه با نامور صد سوار
✦
گروگان ببرد از در شهریار
“Zangeh departed with a hundred renowned horsemen, taking the hostages away from the royal gate.”
#115
چو در شهر سالار ترکان رسید
✦
خروش آمد و دیده‌بانش بدید
“When he arrived at the city of the leader of Turanians, a shout arose as his watchman caught sight of him.”
#116
پذیره شدش نامداری بزرگ
✦
کجا نام او بود جنگی طورگ
“A great chieftain came forth to welcome him, a warrior whose name was Turg.”
#117
چو زنگه بیامد به نزدیک شاه
✦
سپهدار برخاست از پیشگاه
“When Zangeh arrived before the king, the Turanian monarch arose from his throne.”
#118
گرفتش به بر تنگ و بنواختش
✦
گرامی بر خویش بنشاختش
“He embraced him warmly, favored him, and sat him honorably by his side.”
#119
چو بنشست با شاه پیغام داد
✦
سراسر سخنها بدو کرد یاد
“When Zangeh sat down, he delivered the message to the king, recounting every word in full.”
#120
چو بشنید پیچان شد افراسیاب
✦
دلش گشت پر درد و سر پر ز تاب
“Hearing this, Afrasiab was thrown into anguish; his heart filled with grief and his head with turmoil.”
#121
بفرمود تا جایگه ساختند
✦
ورا چون سزا بود بنواختند
“He ordered a fitting place to be prepared for Zangeh, honoring him as was his due.”
#122
چو پیران بیامد تهی کرد جای
✦
سخن رفت با نامور کدخدای
“When Piran arrived, Afrasiab cleared the room to confer in private with his illustrious counselor.”
#123
ز کاووس وز خام گفتار او
✦
ز خوی بد و رای و پیگار او
“He spoke of Kay Kavus and his foolish words, his evil temperament, faulty judgment, and bellicose nature.”
#124
همی گفت و رخساره کرده دژم
✦
ز کار سیاووش دل پر ز غم
“Thus he spoke with a grim countenance, his heart sorrowful over the plight of Siyavash.”
#125
فرستادن زنگهٔ شاوران
✦
همه یاد کرد از کران تا کران
“He recounted the sending of Zangeh, son of Shavaran, telling everything from beginning to end.”
#126
بپرسید کاین را چه درمان کنیم
✦
وزین چاره جستن چه پیمان کنیم
“He asked, "What remedy shall we find for this? What path and pledge should we resolve to take?"”
#127
بدو گفت پیران که ای شهریار
✦
انوشه بدی تا بود روزگار
“Piran replied to him, "O Sovereign, may you live immortal as long as Time endures!”
#128
تو از ما به هر کار داناتری
✦
ببایستها بر تواناتری
“You are wiser than us in every matter, and more capable of fulfilling what is necessary.”
#129
گمان و دل و دانش و رای من
✦
چنینست اندیشه بر جای من
“Yet my thought, heart, knowledge, and judgment lead me to this conclusion:”
#130
که هر کس که بر نیکوی در جهان
✦
توانا بود آشکار و نهان
“Whoever has the power to do good in this world, whether in secret or in public,”
#131
ازین شاهزاده نگیرند باز
✦
زگنج و ز رنج آنچ آید فراز
“Should not withhold any effort or treasure that might serve this royal prince.”
#132
من ایدون شنیدم که اندر جهان
✦
کسی نیست مانند او از مهان
“I have heard that amongst the great ones of the earth, there is none who can match him,”
#133
به بالا و دیدار و آهستگی
✦
به فرهنگ و رای و به شایستگی
“In stature, countenance, and grace, as well as in wisdom, judgment, and worthiness.”
#134
هنر با خرد نیز بیش از نژاد
✦
ز مادر چنو شاهزاده نزاد
“His virtue and wisdom surpass even his noble lineage; no mother has ever born such a prince.”
#135
بدیدن کنون از شنیدن بهست
✦
گرانمایه و شاهزاد و مهست
“Now to see him in person is far better than hearing of him; he is noble, royal-born, and supreme.”
#136
وگر خود جز اینش نبودی هنر
✦
که از خون صد نامور با پدر
“Even if he possessed no other virtue than defying his father over the blood of a hundred renowned captives,”
#137
برآشفت و بگذاشت تخت و کلاه
✦
همی از تو جوید بدین گونه راه
“And enraged, abandoned crown and throne to seek refuge with you in this wise—”
#138
نه نیکو نماید ز راه خرد
✦
کزین کشور آن نامور بگذرد
“It would not be wise or fitting for such an illustrious prince to pass through your realm unhonored.”
#139
ترا سرزنش باشد از مهتران
✦
سر او همان از تو گردد گران
“For the nobles would reproach you, and his own heart would grow bitter toward you.”
#140
و دیگر که کاووس شد پیرسر
✦
ز تخت آمدش روزگار گذر
“Moreover, Kay Kavus is now aged, and his time to depart the throne is near.”
#141
سیاوش جوانست و با فرهی
✦
بدو ماند آیین و تخت مهی
“Siyavash is young and blessed with Divine Grace; to him will belong the royal crown and majesty.”
#142
اگر شاه بیند به رای بلند
✦
نویسد یکی نامهٔ سودمند
“If the king sees fit in his exalted wisdom, let him write a beneficial letter,”
#143
چنان چون نوازنده فرزند را
✦
نوازد جوان خردمند را
“Just as a loving father cherishes his child, comforting this wise young prince.”
#144
یکی جای سازد بدین کشورش
✦
بدارد سزاوار اندر خورش
“Let him prepare a suitable dwelling for him in this realm, and provide for him as fits his status.”
#145
بر آیین دهد دخترش را بدوی
✦
بداردش با ناز و با آبروی
“Let him give his daughter to him in marriage according to custom, treating him with honor and glory.”
#146
مگر کاو بماند به نزدیک شاه
✦
کند کشور و بومت آرامگاه
“So that perchance he remains beside the King, making your land and realm his peaceful abode.”
#147
و گر باز گردد سوی شهریار
✦
ترا بهتری باشد از روزگار
“And even if he eventually returns to his own king, good fortune and honor shall accrue to you.”
#148
سپاسی بود نزد شاه زمین
✦
بزرگان گیتی کنند آفرین
“It will be a debt of gratitude upon the ruler of Iran, and all the world's nobles will praise you.”
#149
برآساید از کین دو کشور مگر
✦
اگر آردش نزد ما دادگر
“Thus perchance the two realms may rest from enmity, if the Just Creator brings him to us.”
#150
ز داد جهان آفرین این سزاست
✦
که گردد زمانه بدین جنگ راست
“By the justice of the Creator of the World, it is fitting that through this, the times find peace from war.”
#151
چو سالار گفتار پیران شنید
✦
چنان هم همه بودنیها بدید
“When the ruler heard the words of Piran, he foresaw all that destiny had in store.”
#152
پس اندیشه کرد اندر آن یک زمان
✦
همی داشت بر نیک و بد بر گمان
“Then he pondered upon it for a moment, weighing every thought of good and ill.”
#153
چنین داد پاسخ به پیران پیر
✦
که هست اینک گفتی همه دلپذیر
“He answered the elderly Piran thus: "All that you have spoken is indeed pleasing to the heart."”
#154
ولیکن شنیدم یکی داستان
✦
که باشد بدین رای همداستان
“"Yet I have heard a story of old, which bears witness to this very matter."”
#155
که چون بچهٔ شیر نر پروری
✦
چو دندان کند تیز کیفر بری
“"If you rear the cub of a male lion, when its teeth grow sharp, you shall reap retribution."”
#156
چو با زور و با چنگ برخیزد او
✦
به پروردگار اندر آویزد او
“"When it rises in strength and with formidable claws, it will turn and strike down its own nurturer."”
#157
بدو گفت پیران کاندر خرد
✦
یکی شاه کندآوران بنگرد
“Piran said to him: "Let the king of champions look upon this with wisdom and discernment."”
#158
کسی کز پدر کژی و خوی بد
✦
نگیرد ازو بدخویی کی سزد
“"He who does not inherit deceit and evil nature from his father—how could evil behavior ever befit him?"”
#159
نبینی که کاووس دیرینه گشت
✦
چو دیرینه گشت او بباید گذشت
“"Do you not see that Kay Kavus has grown old? And when one grows old, his time must pass."”
#160
سیاوش بگیرد جهان فراخ
✦
بسی گنج بی‌رنج و ایوان و کاخ
“"Siyavash shall inherit the vast world, along with boundless treasure, glorious halls, and palaces."”
#161
دو کشور ترا باشد و تاج و تخت
✦
چنین خود که یابد مگر نیک‌بخت
“"Both realms, crown, and throne shall be yours; who could attain such fortune save one born blessed?"”
#162
چو بشنید افراسیاب این سخن
✦
یکی رای با دانش افگند بن
“When Afrasiab heard these words, he laid the foundation of a wise and prudent plan.”
#163
دبیر جهان‌دیده را پیش خواند
✦
زبان برگشاد و سخن برفشاند
“He summoned his experienced scribe, opened his lips, and dictated his royal message.”
#164
نخستین که بر خامه بنهاد دست
✦
به عنبر سر خامه را کرد مست
“As the scribe first set hand to pen, he perfumed its tip with sweet ambergris.”
#165
جهان آفرین را ستایش گرفت
✦
بزرگی و دانش نمایش گرفت
“He began with praise for the Creator of the World, manifesting His greatness and ultimate wisdom.”
#166
کجا برترست از مکان و زمان
✦
بدو کی رسد بندگی را گمان
“Who transcends both space and time; how can the thought of mortal servants ever reach Him?”
#167
خداوند جانست و آن خرد
✦
خردمند را داد او پرورد
“He is the Lord of soul and intellect, who nurtures the wise with justice and wisdom.”
#168
ازو باد بر شاهزاده درود
✦
خداوند گوپال و شمشیر و خود
“From Him be blessings upon the prince—master of the mace, the sword, and the helmet.”
#169
خداوند شرم و خداوند باک
✦
ز بیداد و کژی دل و دست پاک
“Lord of modesty and God-fearing virtue, pure of heart and hand from violence and deceit.”
#170
شنیدم پیام از کران تا کران
✦
ز بیدار دل زنگهٔ شاوران
“"I received the message fully from the vigilant-hearted Zangeh, son of Shavaran."”
#171
غمی شد دلم زانک شاه جهان
✦
چنین تیز شد با تو اندر نهان
“"My heart grew heavy that the King of the World has turned so harsh towards you in secret."”
#172
ولیکن به گیتی به جز تاج و تخت
✦
چه جوید خردمند بیدار بخت
“"Yet in this world, save for crown and throne, what else does a wise and fortunate man seek?"”
#173
ترا این همه ایدر آراستست
✦
اگر شهریاری و گر خواستست
“"All this is prepared for you here: both sovereignty and boundless wealth."”
#174
همه شهر توران برندت نماز
✦
مرا خود به مهر تو باشد نیاز
“"All the city of Turan shall bow before you, and I myself long for your affection."”
#175
تو فرزند باشی و من چون پدر
✦
پدر پیش فرزند بسته کمر
“"You shall be as my son and I as your father—a father ready to serve before his offspring."”
#176
چنان دان که کاووس بر تو به مهر
✦
بران گونه یک روز نگشاد چهر
“"Know that Kavus never once revealed such loving warmth toward you for a single day."”
#177
کجا من گشایم در گنج بست
✦
سپارم به تو تاج و تخت نشست
“"I shall unlock the sealed treasuries for you, and bestow upon you the crown, throne, and seat of power."”
#178
بدارمت بی‌رنج فرزندوار
✦
به گیتی تو مانی زمن یادگار
“"I shall care for you effortlessly as my own child, and you shall remain my lasting legacy in the world."”
#179
چو از کشورم بگذری در جهان
✦
نکوهش کنندم کهان و مهان
“"If you pass through my realm to wander the world, high and low alike will reproach me."”
#180
وزین روی دشوار یابی گذر
✦
مگر ایزدی باشد آیین و فر
“"Moreover, from this side you shall find passage perilous, unless divine fortune and grace attend you."”
#181
بدین راه پیدا نبینی زمین
✦
گذر کرد باید به دریای چین
“"Along this route no solid ground is visible; one must cross the vast Sea of China."”
#182
ازین کرد یزدان ترا بی نیاز
✦
هم ایدر بباش و به خوبی بناز
“"God has spared you from such hardship; remain right here and enjoy all goodness and honor."”
#183
سپاه و در گنج و شهر آن تست
✦
به رفتن بهانه نبایدت جست
“"The army, the treasury, and the cities are all yours; you need seek no excuse to depart."”
#184
چو رای آیدت آشتی با پدر
✦
سپارم ترا تاج و زرین کمر
“"And whenever you desire reconciliation with your father, I will grant you a crown and golden belt."”
#185
که ز ایدر به ایران شوی با سپاه
✦
ببندم به دلسوزگی با تو راه
“"So that you may return from here to Iran with an army; I close off all other paths out of true devotion to you."”
#186
نماند ترا با پدر جنگ دیر
✦
کهن شد سرش گردد از جنگ سیر
“Your conflict with your father shall not endure for long; he has grown old, and his head will soon weary of war.”
#187
گر آتش ببیند پی شصت و پنج
✦
رسد آتش از باد پیری به رنج
“Should fire reach sixty-five years of age, the wind of old age will bring its flame to grief and decay.”
#188
ترا باشد ایران و گنج و سپاه
✦
ز کشور به کشور رساند کلاه
“Iran, its treasures, and its host shall be yours; your royal crown shall extend its glory from realm to realm.”
#189
پذیرفتم از پاک یزدان که من
✦
بکوشم به خوبی به جان و به تن
“I have vowed before holy God that I shall strive for goodness with all my soul and body.”
#190
نفرمایم و خود نسازم به بد
✦
به اندیشه دل را نیازم به بد
“I shall neither command evil nor commit it myself, nor incline my heart's deep thoughts toward wrong.”
#191
چو نامه به مهر اندر آورد شاه
✦
بفرمود تا زنگهٔ نیکخواه
“When the King set his seal upon the letter, he commanded loyal Zangeh...”
#192
به زودی به رفتن ببندد کمر
✦
یکی خلعت آراست با سیم و زر
“...To quickly gird his loins for the journey; and he prepared a robe of honor adorned with silver and gold.”
#193
یکی اسپ بر سر ستام گران
✦
بیامد دمان زنگهٔ شاوران
“Upon a steed boasting a heavy harness, Zangeh son of Shavaran came galloping in haste.”
#194
چو نزدیک تخت سیاوش رسید
✦
بگفت آنچ پرسید و بشنید و دید
“When he arrived before Siyavash's throne, he recounted all that was asked of him, all he had heard and seen.”
#195
سیاوش به یک روی زان شاد شد
✦
به دیگر پر از درد و فریاد شد
“Siyavash felt gladness on the one hand, yet on the other, his spirit turned full of grief and sorrow.”
#196
که دشمن همی دوست بایست کرد
✦
ز آتش کجا بردمد باد سرد
“'I strove to turn an enemy into a friend; yet how can a cool breeze blow forth from fire?'”
#197
یکی نامه بنوشت نزد پدر
✦
همه یاد کرد آنچ بد در به در
“He wrote a letter to his father, recounting everything that had transpired, step by step.”
#198
که من با جوانی خرد یافتم
✦
بهر نیک و بد نیز بشتافتم
“'Though young in years, I acquired wisdom, and strove to discern every good and evil.'”
#199
از آن زن یکی مغز شاه جهان
✦
دل من برافروخت اندر نهان
“'Because of that woman who inflamed the mind of the King of the World, my heart burned in secret within me.'”
#200
شبستان او درد من شد نخست
✦
ز خون دلم رخ ببایست شست
“'Her royal harem became my first affliction, compelling me to wash my face in my heart's blood.'”
#201
ببایست بر کوه آتش گذشت
✦
مرا زار بگریست آهو به دشت
“'I had to pass through a mountain of fire, so bitterly that even the mountain gazelles wept for me on the plain.'”
#202
ازان ننگ و خواری به جنگ آمدم
✦
خرامان به چنگ نهنگ آمدم
“'Fleeing that disgrace and humiliation, I marched to war, stepping directly into the dragon's jaws.'”
#203
دو کشور بدین آشتی شاد گشت
✦
دل شاه چون تیغ پولاد گشت
“'Both realms rejoiced at this peace, yet the King's heart grew hard as a blade of steel.'”
#204
نیاید همی هیچ کارش پسند
✦
گشادن همان و همان بود بند
“'No deed of mine finds favor in his eyes; to him, releasing a knot is no different than tying it.'”
#205
چو چشمش ز دیدار من گشت سیر
✦
بر سیر دیده نباشند دیر
“'Since his eyes are weary of looking upon me, one ought not to linger before a sated gaze.'”
#206
ز شادی مبادا دل او رها
✦
شدم من ز غم در دم اژدها
“'May his heart never be emptied of joy; yet as for me, grief has thrown me into the dragon's jaws.'”
#207
ندانم کزین کار بر من سپهر
✦
چه دارد به راز اندر از کین و مهر
“'I know not what secret malice or love fate holds in store for me in this dark affair.'”
#208
ازان پس بفرمود بهرام را
✦
که اندر جهان تازه کن کام را
“Thereafter he commanded Bahram, saying: 'Fulfill your desire and take your place in the world.'”
#209
سپردم ترا تاج و پرده‌سرای
✦
همان گنج آگنده و تخت و جای
“'I entrust to you the crown, the royal court, the stored treasure, the throne, and the high seat.'”
#210
درفش و سواران و پیلان کوس
✦
چو ایدر بیاید سپهدار طوس
“'The banner, horsemen, war elephants, and drums—when General Tus arrives here...'”
#211
چنین هم پذیرفته او را سپار
✦
تو بیدار دل باش و به روزگار
“'...hand them over to him as agreed, and remain alert of heart through all times.'”
#212
ز دیده ببارید خوناب زرد
✦
لب رادمردان پر از باد سرد
“Tears of sorrow fell from their eyes, and the lips of noble men were filled with cold sighs.”
#213
ز لشکر گزین کرد سیصد سوار
✦
همه گرد و شایستهٔ کارزار
“From the army he selected three hundred horsemen, all champions suited for battle.”
#214
صد اسپ گزیده به زرین ستام
✦
پرستار و زرین کمر صد غلام
“One hundred chosen steeds with golden harnesses, one hundred servants, and one hundred pages wearing golden belts.”
#215
بفرمود تا پیش او آورند
✦
سلیح و ستام و کمر بشمرند
“He ordered them brought before him, to tally the weapons, harnesses, and golden girdles.”
#216
درم نیز چندان که بودش به کار
✦
ز دینار وز گوهر شاهوار
“Likewise, as much silver as he required, along with gold dinars and royal jewels.”
#217
ازان پس گرانمایگان را بخواند
✦
سخنهای بایسته چندی براند
“Thereafter he summoned the noble elders and spoke many fitting words to them.”
#218
چنین گفت کز نزد افراسیاب
✦
گذشتست پیران بدین روی آب
“He said: 'Piran has crossed to this side of the river on behalf of Afrasiab.'”
#219
یکی راز پیغام دارد به من
✦
که ایمن به دویست از انجمن
“'He brings me a secret message, assuring that I shall be safe with him away from the host.'”
#220
همی سازم اکنون پذیره شدن
✦
شما را هم ایدر بباید بدن
“'I now prepare to go out and meet him; as for you, you must remain right here.'”
#221
همه سوی بهرام دارید روی
✦
مپیچید دل را ز گفتار اوی
“Turn your faces all toward Bahram, and stray not in heart from that which he commands.”
#222
همی بوسه دادند گردان زمین
✦
بران خوب سالار باآفرین
“The warriors kissed the ground in homage before that good and praise-deserving leader.”