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Heroic Era (Kianian)

Siavosh

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The Treachery of Garsivaz and the Martyrdom of Siyavash
Determined to preserve the fragile peace between the two realms, Prince Siyavash summoned a learned scribe to write a noble letter to King Afrasiab, opening with praises of Yazdan and Wisdom, expressing devotion, and explaining that the ailments of his bride Farangis kept him at home. Yet the malicious Garsivaz took the sealed letter and rode day and night on swift chargers to reach the throne first. Standing before Afrasiab, Garsivaz spewed vile lies, claiming Siyavash had humiliated him, ignored the letter, and formed secret alliances with Iran, Rum, and China to overthrow the realm of Touran.

Blind rage seized Afrasiab upon hearing these fabrications. He ordered the war-horns and Indian bells to sound, mobilizing a massive army against Siyavash. Returning to his quarters pale and trembling, Siyavash revealed to his beloved Farangis a horrific dream he had experienced on the fourth night: a raging river of water on one side, a mountain of fire on the other, with Afrasiab riding war-elephants while Garsivaz fanned the flames that consumed Siyavash. Recognizing his inescapable fate, Siyavash comforted his weeping bride and foretold the divine future: that she was five months pregnant with a son to be named Kai Khosrow, who would one day rise to avenge his innocent father and shake Touran to its foundations.

With heavy sorrow, Siyavash went to his stables, unbridled his majestic black steed Shabrang Behzad, and whispered secret prophecies into the horse's ear, bidding him wait until King Kai Khosrow should call upon him. He then set fire to his riches and led his thousand Iranian retainers out without any weapon drawn, refusing to wage war against the divine decree. The Touranian host set upon them, slaughtering his loyal retainers. Wounded by arrows and javelins, Siyavash fell from his saddle. Gorwi-ye Zereh bound his hands behind his back like stone and dragged him before the tyrant.

Despite the desperate, eloquent pleas of Pilsam—Piran's noble younger brother—and the heart-rending cries of Farangis warning of the cosmic wrath of Rostam and the champions of Iran, the evil counsel of Garsivaz, Gorwi, and Damur prevailed. Afrasiab commanded that Siyavash be dragged to a barren wasteland where no green blade grew, and his head severed over a golden bowl so that not a drop of his blood should touch the dry earth. Raising his eyes to Yazdan, Siyavash prayed for a radiant branch of his lineage to avenge his death. Gorwi-ye Zereh raised Garsivaz's gleaming dagger, struck down the blameless prince, and poured his blood into the bowl. At that dreadful moment, a black dust storm engulfed the sun and moon, veiling the sky in darkness as the world shuddered in grief.
#1
دبیر پژوهنده را پیش خواند
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سخنهای آگنده را برفشاند
“He summoned a learned scribe to his presence and poured forth the treasures of his heart.”
#2
نخست آفریننده را یاد کرد
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ز وام خرد جانش آزاد کرد
“He remembered first the Creator of all, freeing his soul from the debt owed to wisdom.”
#3
ازان پس خرد را ستایش گرفت
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ابر شاه ترکان نیایش گرفت
“Thereafter he praised wisdom, and offered warm prayers for the King of the Turks.”
#4
که ای شاه پیروز و به روزگار
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زمانه مبادا ز تو یادگار
“Saying: 'O victorious king of the age, may time never be devoid of your memory!”
#5
مرا خواستی شاد گشتم بدان
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که بادا نشست تو با موبدان
“You summoned me and I was rejoiced; may your throne ever be surrounded by wise priests.”
#6
و دیگر فرنگیس را خواستی
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به مهر و وفا دل بیاراستی
“And secondary, you inquired after Farangis, decorating your heart with love and fidelity.”
#7
فرنگیس نالنده بود این زمان
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به لب ناچران و به تن ناچمان
“Farangis has been in weeping and affliction, unable to eat or walk freely.”
#8
بخفت و مرا پیش بالین ببست
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میان دو گیتیش بینم نشست
“She lay bedridden while binding me to her side; I see her sitting between two worlds.'”
#9
مرا دل پر از رای و دیدار تست
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دو کشور پر از رنج و آزار تست
“'My heart is eager for your counsel and sight, while both lands are filled with your effort.'”
#10
ز نالندگی چون سبکتر شود
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فدای تن شاه کشور شود
“'When her ailment lightens somewhat, she shall be a sacrifice to the king's sacred person.'”
#11
بهانه مرا نیز آزار اوست
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نهانم پر از درد و تیمار اوست
“'My only pretext is her affliction, for my inner soul is weighed down with grief for her.'”
#12
چو نامه به مهر اندر آمد به داد
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به زودی به گرسیوز بدنژاد
“When the letter was sealed in justice, he delivered it promptly to evil-born Garsivaz.”
#13
دلاور سه اسپ تگاور بخواست
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همی تاخت یکسر شب و روز راست
“The warrior called for three swift steeds, and galloped night and day without rest.”
#14
چهارم بیامد به درگاه شاه
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پر از بد روان و زبان پرگناه
“On the fourth day he arrived at the royal court, his soul filled with evil and his tongue with sin.”
#15
فراوان بپرسیدش افراسیاب
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چو دیدش پر از رنج و سر پرشتاب
“Afrasiab questioned him closely when he saw him so exhausted and in such haste.”
#16
چرا باشتاب آمدی گفت شاه
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چگونه سپردی چنین تند راه
“'Why have you returned in such speed?' asked the king. 'How did you traverse so swift a path?'”
#17
بدو گفت چون تیره شد روی کار
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نشاید شمردن به بد روزگار
“He said: 'When affairs turn dark, one ought not count upon bad fortune.'”
#18
سیاوش نکرد ایچ بر کس نگاه
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پذیره نیامد مرا خود به راه
“'Siyavash did not even look at anyone, nor did he come forth to welcome me along the road.'”
#19
سخن نیز نشنید و نامه نخواند
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مرا پیش تختش به زانو نشاند
“'He heard no word nor read the letter, but made me kneel before his throne.'”
#20
ز ایران بدو نامه پیوسته شد
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به مادر همی مهر او بسته شد
“'Continuous letters reach him from Iran, and his heart remains bound to his motherland.'”
#21
سپاهی ز روم و سپاهی ز چین
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همی هر زمان برخروشد زمین
“'Armies from Rum and hosts from China cause the earth to roar continuously.'”
#22
تو در کار او گر درنگ آوری
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مگر باد زان پس به چنگ آوری
“'If you delay in dealing with him, you may only catch the wind in your hand thereafter.'”
#23
و گر دیر گیری تو جنگ آورد
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دو کشور به مردی به چنگ آورد
“'And if you act slowly, he will wage war and seize both realms by force.'”
#24
و گر سوی ایران براند سپاه
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که یارد شدن پیش او کینه‌خواه
“'Or if he marches his army toward Iran, who would dare stand before him in vengeance?'”
#25
ترا کردم آگه ز دیدار خویش
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ازین پس بپیچی ز کردار خویش
“'I have warned you of what I witnessed; hereafter you will suffer for your own deeds.'”
#26
چو بشنید افراسیاب این سخن
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برو تازه شد روزگار کهن
“When Afrasiab heard this speech, ancient grievances flared anew within him.”
#27
به گرسیوز از خشم پاسخ نداد
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دلش گشت پرآتش و سر چو باد
“In his rage he gave no answer to Garsivaz; his heart burned like fire and his head spun like the wind.”
#28
بفرمود تا برکشیدند نای
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همان سنج و شیپور و هندی درای
“He commanded the pipes to be blown, alongside cymbals, clarions, and Indian bells.”
#29
به سوی سیاووش بنهاد روی
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ابا نامداران پرخاشجوی
“He set out toward Siyavash, accompanied by warlike and famous champions.”
#30
بدانگه که گرسیوز بدفریب
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گران کرد بر زین دوال رکیب
“At that hour when deceitful Garsivaz pulled heavy upon his stirrup leather,”
#31
سیاوش به پرده درآمد به درد
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به تن لرز لرزان و رخساره زرد
“Siyavash entered the inner curtain in deep anguish, trembling in body and pale of cheek.”
#32
فرنگیس گفت ای گو شیرچنگ
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چه بودت که دیگر شدستی به رنگ
“Farangis asked: 'O lion-clawed hero, what has befallen you that your color has changed so?'”
#33
چنین داد پاسخ که ای خوبروی
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به توران زمین شد مرا آب روی
“He answered: 'O beautiful one, my honor in the land of Touran has been destroyed.'”
#34
بدین سان که گفتار گرسیوزست
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ز پرگار بهره مرا مرکزست
“'By the words Garsivaz has spoken, I am now the target at the center of the circle.'”
#35
فرنگیس بگرفت گیسو به دست
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گل ارغوان را به فندق بخست
“Farangis seized her tresses with her hands, tearing her red cheeks with her fingertips.”
#36
پر از خون شد آن بسد مشک‌بوی
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پر از آب چشم و پر از گرد روی
“Her musk-scented ruby lips became bathed in blood, her eyes full of tears, her face covered in dust.”
#37
همی اشک بارید بر کوه سیم
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دو لاله ز خوشاب شد به دو نیم
“Tears poured down her silver-bright cheeks; two bright narcissi were torn in twain.”
#38
همی کند موی و همی ریخت آب
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ز گفتار و کردار افراسیاب
“She tore her hair and wept tears of grief over the words and deeds of Afrasiab.”
#39
بدو گفت کای شاه گردن فراز
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چه سازی کنون زود بگشای راز
“She said to him: 'O exalted king, what are you preparing to do now? Reveal your secret quickly!'”
#40
پدر خود دلی دارد از تو به درد
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از ایران نیاری سخن یاد کرد
“'My father's heart is sore against you; you must not mention Iran at all.'”
#41
سوی روم ره با درنگ آیدت
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نپویی سوی چین که تنگ آیدت
“'The road to Rum will bring delay, nor can you travel toward China for it is too narrow.'”
#42
ز گیتی کراگیری اکنون پناه
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پناهت خداوند خورشید و ماه
“'Where in the world will you seek refuge now? Your refuge must be the Lord of sun and moon.'”
#43
ستم باد بر جان او ماه و سال
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کجا بر تن تو شود بدسگال
“'May oppression be upon his soul month and year, whoever harbours evil against your person!'”
#44
همی گفت گرسیوز اکنون ز راه
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بیاید همانا ز نزدیک شاه
“She kept saying: 'Garsivaz will surely arrive now from the king's presence along the road.'”
#45
چهارم شب اندر بر ماهروی
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بخوان اندرون بود با رنگ و بوی
“On the fourth night beside his moon-faced bride, he sat at the banquet amidst scents and colors.”
#46
بلرزید وز خواب خیره بجست
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خروشی برآورد چون پیل مست
“He trembled and leaped wildly from sleep, letting out a roar like an intoxicated elephant.”
#47
همی داشت اندر برش خوب چهر
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بدو گفت شاها چبودت ز مهر
“The fair-faced lady held him close and said affectionately, "O King, what has happened to you?"”
#48
خروشید و شمعی برافروختند
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برش عود و عنبر همی سوختند
“She called out, and they lit a candle, burning aloe wood and ambergris before him.”
#49
بپرسید زو دخت افراسیاب
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که فرزانه شاها چه دیدی به خواب
“The daughter of Afrasiab asked him, "O wise King, what did you see in your dream?"”
#50
سیاوش بدو گفت کز خواب من
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لبت هیچ مگشای بر انجمن
“Siyavash replied, "Speak not a word of my dream to any gathering."”
#51
چنین دیدم ای سرو سیمین به خواب
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که بودی یکی بی‌کران رود آب
“"O silver cypress, I saw in my sleep a vast river of boundless waters."”
#52
یکی کوه آتش به دیگر کران
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گرفته لب آب نیزه وران
“"On the other bank stood a mountain of fire, and spearmen lined the river's edge."”
#53
ز یک سو شدی آتش تیزگرد
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برافروختی از سیاووش گرد
“"On one side, a swift-swirling fire flared up, raising dust from Siyavash."”
#54
ز یک دست آتش ز یک دست آب
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به پیش اندرون پیل و افراسیاب
“"Fire on one side, water on the other; in front stood an elephant and Afrasiab."”
#55
بدیدی مرا روی کرده دژم
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دمیدی بران آتش تیزدم
“"He looked upon me with a grim face, blowing fiercely into that blazing fire."”
#56
چو گرسیوز آن آتش افروختی
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از افروختن مر مرا سوختی
“"When Garsivaz fanned those flames, his burning consumed me entirely."”
#57
فرنگیس گفت این به جز نیکوی
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نباشد نگر یک زمان بغنوی
“Farangis said, "This portends nothing but good fortune; now do try to rest a moment."”
#58
به گرسیوز آید همی بخت شوم
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شود کشته بر دست سالار روم
“"Ill fortune shall fall upon Garsivaz; he will be slain at the hands of the ruler of Rome."”
#59
سیاوش سپه را سراسر بخواند
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به درگاه ایوان زمانی بماند
“Siyavash summoned all his troops and waited for a while at the palace doorway.”
#60
بسیچید و بنشست خنجر به چنگ
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طلایه فرستاد بر سوی گنگ
“Dressed for battle, dagger in hand, he dispatched advanced scouts toward Gang-Dezh.”
#61
دو بهره چو از تیره شب در گذشت
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طلایه هم آنگه بیامد ز دشت
“When two-thirds of the dark night had passed, the scouts returned swiftly from the plain.”
#62
که افراسیاب و فراوان سپاه
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پدید آمد از دور تازان به راه
“They reported that Afrasiab and a vast host had appeared in the distance, charging along the road.”
#63
ز نزدیک گرسیوز آمد نوند
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که بر چارهٔ جان میان را ببند
“A messenger came from Garsivaz, saying, "Gird yourself to save your life!"”
#64
نیامد ز گفتار من هیچ سود
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از آتش ندیدم جز از تیره دود
“"My words yielded no benefit; I gained nothing from the fire save dark smoke."”
#65
نگر تا چه باید کنون ساختن
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سپه را کجا باید انداختن
“"Consider now what strategy must be adopted, and where your army should be deployed."”
#66
سیاوش ندانست زان کار او
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همی راست آمدش گفتار او
“Siyavash knew not of his deception, believing that his words were honest and true.”
#67
فرنگیس گفت ای خردمند شاه
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مکن هیچ گونه به ما در نگاه
“Farangis said, "O wise king, pay no heed to us at all!"”
#68
یکی بارهٔ گام‌زن برنشین
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مباش ایچ ایمن به توران زمین
“"Mount a swift steed and flee, for there is no safety for you in the land of Turan."”
#69
ترا زنده خواهم که مانی بجای
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سر خویش گیر و کسی را مپای
“"I desire only that you remain alive; take your own path and wait for no one."”
#70
سیاوش بدو گفت کان خواب من
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بجا آمد و تیره شد آب من
“Siyavash said to her, "That dream of mine has come true, and my fortune has darkened."”
#71
مرا زندگانی سرآید همی
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غم و درد و انده درآید همی
“"My life is coming to an end, and grief, pain, and sorrow now overwhelm me."”
#72
چنین است کار سپهر بلند
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گهی شاد دارد گهی مستمند
“"Such is the way of the high heavens: at times it gladdens, at times it afflicts."”
#73
گر ایوان من سر به کیوان کشید
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همان زهر گیتی بباید چشید
“"Even if my palace reached the Saturn sky, I must still taste the world's poison."”
#74
اگر سال گردد هزار و دویست
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بجز خاک تیره مرا جای نیست
“"Though one's life should reach twelve hundred years, the dark earth is the ultimate abode."”
#75
ز شب روشنایی نجوید کسی
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کجا بهره دارد ز دانش بسی
“"No one who possesses ample wisdom seeks light from the dark of night."”
#76
ترا پنج ماهست ز آبستنی
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ازین نامور گر بود رستنی
“"You are five months pregnant; if fruit is to come from this renowned lineage..."”
#77
درخت تو گر نر به بار آورد
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یکی نامور شهریار آورد
“"If your tree bears a male child, it will bring forth a famous monarch."”
#78
سرافراز کیخسروش نام کن
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به غم خوردن او دل آرام کن
“"Name him exalted Kay Khosrow, and console your heart by taking care of his sorrow."”
#79
چنین گردد این گنبد تیزرو
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سرای کهن را نخوانند نو
“"Thus turns this swift-revolving dome; one does not call an ancient dwelling new."”
#80
ازین پس به فرمان افراسیاب
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مرا تیره‌بخت اندرآید به خواب
“"Henceforth, by Afrasiab's decree, my ill-starred fortune shall sink into the sleep of death."”
#81
ببرند بر بیگنه بر سرم
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ز خون جگر برنهند افسرم
“They shall sever my head, though I am innocent, and place upon my brow a crown forged of my own heart's blood.”
#82
نه تابوت یابم نه گور و کفن
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نه بر من بگرید کسی ز انجمن
“I shall find neither coffin, nor grave, nor shroud, nor shall anyone among the assembly weep over me.”
#83
نهالی مرا خاک توران بود
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سرای کهن کام شیران بود
“My bedding shall be the dust of Turan, and this ancient domain shall become the feast of lions.”
#84
برین گونه خواهد گذشتن سپهر
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نخواهد شدن رام با من به مهر
“Thus shall the heavens revolve; it will not bow to me in kindness nor show affection.”
#85
ز خورشید تابنده تا تیره‌خاک
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گذر نیست از داد یزدان پاک
“From the shining sun unto the dark earth, none can escape the justice of the pure Lord.”
#86
به خواری ترا روزبانان شاه
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سر و تن برهنه برندت به راه
“In ignominy, the king’s guards shall drag thee along the road, thy head and body bare.”
#87
بیاید سپهدار پیران به در
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بخواهش بخواهد ترا از پدر
“Commander Piran shall come to the court and, through pleading, shall beg for thy life from thy father.”
#88
به جان بی‌گنه خواهدت زینهار
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به ایوان خویشش برد زار و خوار
“He will plead for thy innocent life, and lead thee, sorrowful and wretched, unto his own palace.”
#89
وز ایران بیاید یکی چاره‌گر
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به فرمان دادار بسته کمر
“And from Iran shall come a resourceful savior, girded to fulfill the command of the Creator.”
#90
از ایدر ترا با پسر ناگهان
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سوی رود جیحون برد در نهان
“From here, he shall secretly spirit thee and thy son away toward the River Jayhun.”
#91
نشانند بر تخت شاهی ورا
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به فرمان بود مرغ و ماهی ورا
“They shall seat him upon the royal throne, and both bird and fish shall be obedient to his command.”
#92
ز گیتی برآرد سراسر خروش
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زمانه ز کیخسرو آید به جوش
“He shall cause a clamor to rise across the world, and the age shall boil with Kai Khosrow’s vengeance.”
#93
ز ایران یکی لشکر آرد به کین
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پرآشوب گردد سراسر زمین
“He shall bring an army from Iran seeking vengeance, and the entire earth shall be plunged into turmoil.”
#94
پی رخش فرخ زمین بسپرد
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به توران کسی را به کس نشمرد
“The hooves of blessed Rakhsh shall trample the earth, and in Turan no man shall count another as aught.”
#95
به کین من امروز تا رستخیز
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نبینی جز از گرز و شمشیر تیز
“From this day until Resurrection in avenge of me, thou shalt see naught but maces and sharp swords.”
#96
برین گفتها بر تو دل سخت کن
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تن از ناز و آرام پردخت کن
“Steel thy heart against these words, and empty thy mind of luxury and repose.”
#97
سیاوش چو با جفت غمها بگفت
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خروشان بدو اندر آویخت جفت
“When Siyavash had imparted these sorrows to his spouse, she embraced him, weeping aloud.”
#98
رخش پر ز خون دل و دیده گشت
✦
سوی آخُر تازی اسپان گذشت
“His face became stained with the blood of his heart and eyes, and he walked toward the stable of his Arabian steeds.”
#99
بیاورد شبرنگ بهزاد را
✦
که دریافتی روز کین باد را
“He brought forth Shabrang Behzad, the charger who in battle could overtake the wind.”
#100
خروشان سرش را به بر در گرفت
✦
لگام و فسارش ز سر برگرفت
“Weeping aloud, he embraced its head, and removed the rein and halter from its skull.”
#101
به گوش اندرش گفت رازی دراز
✦
که بیدار دل باش و با کس مساز
“He whispered a long secret into its ear: 'Be vigilant of heart, and yield to no man!'”
#102
چو کیخسرو آید به کین خواستن
✦
عنانش ترا باید آراستن
“When Kai Khosrow comes seeking vengeance, it is thou who must adorn his reins.”
#103
ورا بارگی باش و گیتی بکوب
✦
چنان چون سر مار افعی به چوب
“Be his warhorse and trample the world beneath thy hooves, even as one crushes a viper’s head with a staff.”
#104
از آخر ببر دل به یکبارگی
✦
که او را تو باشی به کین بارگی
“Sever thy heart entirely from the stable, for thou shalt be his steed of vengeance.”
#105
دگر مرکبان را همه کرد پی
✦
برافروخت برسان آتش ز نی
“He hamstringed all his other steeds, blazing with fury like fire among the reeds.”
#106
خود و سرکشان سوی ایران کشید
✦
رخ از خون دیده شده ناپدید
“Then he and his brave champions turned toward Iran, their faces hidden beneath a rain of bloody tears.”
#107
چو یک نیم فرسنگ ببرید راه
✦
رسید اندرو شاه توران سپاه
“When he had traversed half a league, the King of Turan's army overtook him.”
#108
سپه دید با خود و تیغ و زره
✦
سیاوش زده بر زره بر گره
“He saw an army clad in armor with drawn swords, while Siyavash himself had bound his coat of mail tightly.”
#109
به دل گفت گرسیوز این راست گفت
✦
سخن زین نشانی که بُد در نهفت
“Afrasiab said in his heart: 'Garsivaz spoke the truth; the hidden warnings matched these signs.'”
#110
سیاوش بترسید از بیم جان
✦
مگر گفت بدخواه گردد نهان
“Afrasiab thought: 'Siyavash feared for his life, lest his malicious designs be laid bare.'”
#111
همی بنگرید این بدان آن بدین
✦
که کینه نبدشان به دل پیش ازین
“Each looked upon the other in astonishment, for prior to this moment, no malice had dwelt in their hearts.”
#112
ز بیم سیاوش سواران جنگ
✦
گرفتند آرام و هوش و درنگ
“From fear of Siyavash, the valiant warriors halted, holding back their breath and pausing in hesitation.”
#113
چه گفت آن خردمند بسیار هوش
✦
که با اختر بد به مردی مکوش
“What said that wise man of supreme intelligence? 'Strive not through valour against an evil star!'”
#114
چنین گفت زان پس به افراسیاب
✦
که ای پرهنر شاه با جاه و آب
“Thereupon Siyavash addressed Afrasiab: 'O accomplished king, endowed with glory and majesty!'”
#115
چرا جنگ جوی آمدی با سپاه
✦
چرا کشت خواهی مرا بی‌گناه
“'Why hast thou come seeking war with an army? Why wouldst thou slay me, though I am innocent?'”
#116
سپاه دو کشور پر از کین کنی
✦
زمان و زمین پر ز نفرین کنی
“You fill the armies of both realms with malice, and cover both time and earth in bitter curses.”
#117
چنین گفت گرسیوز کم خرد
✦
کزین در سخن خود کی اندر خورد
“Thus spoke the foolish Garsivaz: "How could such words be fitting in this hour?”
#118
گر ایدر چنین بی‌گناه آمدی
✦
چرا با زره نزد شاه آمدی
“If you came here in such innocence, why did you approach the King clad in body armor?”
#119
پذیره شدن زین نشان راه نیست
✦
سنان و سپر هدیهٔ شاه نیست
“To come out to greet in this manner is no proper custom; spear and shield are no fitting gifts for a king."”
#120
سیاوش بدانست کان کار اوست
✦
برآشفتن شه ز بازار اوست
“Siyavash realized that this was all Garsivaz's doing, and that the King's rage was kindled by his deceitful court.”
#121
چو گفتار گرسیوز افراسیاب
✦
شنید و برآمد بلند آفتاب
“When Afrasiab heard the deceitful speech of Garsivaz, as the morning sun rose high in the heavens,”
#122
به ترکان بفرمود کاندر دهید
✦
درین دشت کشتی به خون برنهید
“He commanded the Turanians: "Attack! Launch upon this plain a veritable ship of blood!"”
#123
از ایران سپه بود مردی هزار
✦
همه نامدار از در کارزار
“Among the Iranian host were a thousand warriors, all renowned heroes fit for the fierce arena of battle.”
#124
رده بر کشیدند ایرانیان
✦
ببستند خون ریختن را میان
“The Iranians drew up their battle lines and girded themselves to spill blood in struggle.”
#125
همه با سیاوش گرفتند جنگ
✦
ندیدند جای فسون و درنگ
“They all rallied to join the fight with Siyavash, seeing no place for hesitation or deceit.”
#126
کنون خیره گفتند ما را کشند
✦
بباید که تنها به خون در کشند
“They said: "Now they seek to slay us in vain; we must drag them down into blood before we fall!"”
#127
بمان تا ز ایرانیان دست برد
✦
ببینند و مشمر چنین کار خرد
“"Wait, that they may witness the martial prowess of Iran, and hold not such combat as a trifling affair!"”
#128
سیاوش چنین گفت کین رای نیست
✦
همان جنگ را مایه و پای نیست
“Siyavash answered: "This is no wise path, nor is there any foundation or purpose for this war.”
#129
مرا چرخ گردان اگر بی‌گناه
✦
به دست بدان کرد خواهد تباه
“If the turning sky has decreed that I, though guiltless, be ruined at the hands of the evil,”
#130
به مردی کنون زور و آهنگ نیست
✦
که با کردگار جهان جنگ نیست
“Now is no moment for martial strength or strife, for none can wage war against the Maker of the world."”
#131
سرآمد بریشان بر آن روزگار
✦
همه کشته گشتند و برگشته کار
“Their days reached their tragic end; all were slain, and their fortune turned to ruin.”
#132
ز تیر و ز ژوپین ببد خسته شاه
✦
نگون اندر آمد ز پشت سپاه
“Wounded by arrows and javelins, the noble Prince fell headlong from the back of his mount.”
#133
همی گشت بر خاک و نیزه به دست
✦
گروی زره دست او را ببست
“As he writhed upon the dust, spear still in hand, Garwi-ye Zereh bound his hands fast.”
#134
نهادند بر گردنش پالهنگ
✦
دو دست از پس پشت بسته چو سنگ
“They fixed a heavy tether upon his neck, and bound his hands behind his back as hard as stone.”
#135
دوان خون بران چهرهٔ ارغوان
✦
چنان روز نادیده چشم جوان
“Blood streamed down his crimson cheek; never had the young prince's eyes seen so dark a day.”
#136
برفتند سوی سیاووش گرد
✦
پس پشت و پیش سپه بود گرد
“They marched toward the noble hero Siyavash, while dust clouds swirled before and behind the host.”
#137
چنین گفت سالار توران سپاه
✦
که ایدر کشیدش به یکسو ز راه
“The commander of Turan's army declared: "Drag him aside off the road at this very spot!”
#138
کنیدش به خنجر سر از تن جدا
✦
به شخی که هرگز نروید گیا
“Sever his head from his body with a dagger upon barren ground where grass shall never sprout!”
#139
بریزید خونش بران گرم خاک
✦
ممانید دیر و مدارید باک
“Pour his blood upon that sun-baked dust; linger not, and harbor no fear or pity!"”
#140
چنین گفت با شاه یکسر سپاه
✦
کزو شهریارا چه دیدی گناه
“The whole army cried out to the King: "O Monarch, what offense have you ever seen in him?”
#141
چرا کشت خواهی کسی را که تاج
✦
بگرید برو زار با تخت عاج
“Why would you slay one over whom the crown and the ivory throne weep bitterly?”
#142
سری را کجا تاج باشد کلاه
✦
نشاید برید ای خردمند شاه
“A head worthy to wear the royal crown ought not to be severed, O wise King!”
#143
به هنگام شادی درختی مکار
✦
که زهر آورد بار او روزگار
“In the hour of joy, plant not a tree whose fruit fate will turn to poison!"”
#144
همی بود گرسیوز بدنشان
✦
ز بیهودگی یار مردم کشان
“Yet ill-omened Garsivaz remained persistent, out of sheer malice acting as ally to the murderous.”
#145
که خون سیاوش بریزد به درد
✦
کزو داشت درد دل اندر نبرد
“Eager to spill Siyavash's blood in pain, for he held a deep grudge in his heart from their past combat.”
#146
ز پیران یکی بود کهتر به سال
✦
برادر بد او را و فرخ همال
“Among Piran's kinsmen was one younger in years, his brother and a most auspicious companion.”
#147
کجا پیلسم بود نام جوان
✦
یکی پرهنر بود و روشن روان
“Pilsam was that youth's name—a warrior accomplished in arts and bright of soul.”
#148
چنین گفت مر شاه را پیلسم
✦
که این شاخ را بار دردست و غم
“Pilsam thus spoke to the King: "The fruit of this branch shall be nothing but anguish and sorrow.”
#149
ز دانا شنیدم یکی داستان
✦
خرد شد بران نیز همداستان
“I heard a tale from a wise sage, and wisdom itself concurred with its truth:”
#150
که آهسته دل کم پشیمان شود
✦
هم آشفته را هوش درمان شود
“'The patient heart rarely suffers regret, and sound intellect can cure even a troubled soul.'"”
#151
شتاب و بدی کار آهرمنست
✦
پشیمانی جان و رنج تنست
“Haste and evil are the workings of Ahriman; they bring remorse to the soul and anguish to the body.”
#152
سری را که باشی بدو پادشا
✦
به تیزی بریدن نبینم روا
“A head over which you hold sovereign sway—I deem it unfit to be severed in haste.”
#153
ببندش همی دار تا روزگار
✦
برین بد ترا باشد آموزگار
“Keep him bound in chains until Time itself becomes your teacher in this dark affair.”
#154
چو باد خرد بر دلت بروزد
✦
از ان پس ورا سربریدن سزد
“When the breeze of wisdom blows upon your heart, only then will it be fitting to strike off his head.”
#155
بفرمای بند و تو تندی مکن
✦
که تندی پشیمانی آرد به بن
“Command him to be bound and forego hot wrath, for anger brings nothing in the end but bitter regret.”
#156
چه بری سری را همی بی‌گناه
✦
که کاووس و رستم بود کینه خواه
“Why slice off the head of an innocent man, when Kavus and Rostam shall surely seek revenge?”
#157
پدر شاه و رستمش پروردگار
✦
بپیچی به فرجام زین روزگار
“His father is king and Rostam his foster-parent; in the end, you shall suffer greatly at Fate's hand.”
#158
چو گودرز و چون گیو و برزین و طوس
✦
ببندند بر کوههٔ پیل کوس
“When Goudarz, Giv, Barzin, and Tous bind the war-drums upon the elephant saddles,”
#159
دمنده سپهبد گو پیلتن
✦
که خوارند بر چشم او انجمن
“And that raging general, the elephant-bodied hero, in whose eyes whole assemblies are held cheap,”
#160
فریبرز کاووس درنده شیر
✦
که هرگز ندیدش کس از جنگ سیر
“And Fariburz, son of Kavus, a tearing lion whom no one has ever seen sated with battle—”
#161
برین کینه بندند یکسر کمر
✦
در و دشت گردد پر از کینه‌ور
“They will all gird their loins to avenge this deed, and every hill and plain will teem with vengeful warriors.”
#162
نه من پای دارم نه پیوند من
✦
نه گردی ز گردان این انجمن
“Neither I nor my kin shall stand firm against them, nor any hero among this assembly.”
#163
همانا که پیران بیاید پگاه
✦
ازو بشنود داستان نیز شاه
“Surely Piran will arrive at dawn, and the king may hear his council as well on this tale.”
#164
مگر خود نیازت نیاید بدین
✦
مگستر یکی تا جهانست کین
“Perhaps you will not need to do this; sow not a feud that shall endure as long as the world remains.”
#165
بدو گفت گرسیوز ای هوشمند
✦
بگفت جوانان هوا را مبند
“Garsivaz said to him: "O clever man, do not let your desires be swayed by the words of youngsters!”
#166
از ایرانیان دشت پر کرگس است
✦
گر از کین بترسی ترا این بس است
“The plain is already filled with vultures feeding on Iranians; if you fear their vengeance, this alone should suffice you!”
#167
همین بد که کردی ترا خود نه بس
✦
که خیره همی بشنوی پند کس
“Is not the evil you have already done enough for you, that you now blindly listen to the counsel of others?”
#168
سیاوش چو بخروشد از روم و چین
✦
پر از گرز و شمشیر بینی زمین
“When Siyavash raises a war-cry from Rome and China, you shall see the earth filled with maces and swords!”
#169
بریدی دم مار و خستی سرش
✦
به دیبا بپوشید خواهی برش
“You have cut off the snake's tail and wounded its head—and now would you dress its body in silk?”
#170
گر ایدونک او را به جان زینهار
✦
دهی من نباشم بر شهریار
“If you grant him sanctuary and spare his life, I shall no longer remain in the King's service!”
#171
به بیغوله‌ای خیزم از بیم جان
✦
مگر خود به زودی سرآید زمان
“I shall flee into some dark corner for fear of my life, until perchance my mortal time soon comes to an end.”
#172
برفتند پیچان دمور و گروی
✦
بر شاه ترکان پر از رنگ و بوی
“Damur and Garui departed, full of deceit and artifice, and came before the King of the Turks,”
#173
که چندین به خون سیاوش مپیچ
✦
که آرام خوار آید اندر بسیچ
“Saying: "Hesitate not so long over Siyavash's blood, for slowness brings weakness when preparing for battle!”
#174
به گفتار گرسیوز رهنمای
✦
برآرای و بردار دشمن ز جای
“According to the advice of your guiding counsel Garsivaz, prepare your forces and uproot the enemy!"”
#175
زدی دام و دشمن گرفتی بدوی
✦
ز ایران برآید یکی های و هوی
“"You set a trap and captured the enemy within it; soon a tremendous uproar shall arise from Iran.”
#176
سزا نیست این را گرفتن به دست
✦
دل بدسگالان بباید شکست
“It is not fitting to handle this matter with softness; the heart of evil-wishers must be crushed!"”
#177
سپاهی بدین گونه کردی تباه
✦
نگر تا چگونه بود رای شاه
“"You have ruined an army in this fashion—consider well what the King's true judgment should be.”
#178
اگر خود نیازردتی از نخست
✦
به آب این گنه را توانست شست
“Had you not harmed him in the first place, this offense might have been washed clean with water;”
#179
کنون آن به آید که اندر جهان
✦
نباشد پدید آشکار و نهان
“But now it is best that he exist no more in this world, neither openly nor in secret."”
#180
بدیشان چنین پاسخ آورد شاه
✦
کزو من ندیدم به دیده گناه
“The King gave them this reply: "With my own eyes, I have seen no sin committed by him.”
#181
و لیکن ز گفت ستاره شمر
✦
به فرجام زو سختی آید به سر
“Yet according to the words of the astrologer, in the end, hardship shall befall us through him.”
#182
گر ایدونک خونش بریزم به کین
✦
یکی گرد خیزد ز ایران زمین
“If I shed his blood in vengeance, a mighty cloud of dust shall rise from the land of Iran.”
#183
رها کردنش بتر از کشتنست
✦
همان کشتنش رنج و درد منست
“Setting him free is worse than slaying him, yet killing him likewise brings me pain and suffering!”
#184
به توران گزند مرا آمدست
✦
غم و درد و بند مرا آمدست
“Upon Turan harm has descended through me; sorrow, pain, and bondage have come upon my realm."”
#185
خردمند گر مردم بدگمان
✦
نداند کسی چارهٔ آسمان
“Be one wise or full of mistrust, no man can find a remedy against Fate's decree.”
#186
فرنگیس بشنید رخ را بخست
✦
میان را به زنار خونین ببست
“When Farangis heard the dire news, she scratched her cheeks in grief and bound her waist with a blood-stained belt of mourning.”
#187
پیاده بیامد به نزدیک شاه
✦
به خون رنگ داده دو رخساره ماه
“On foot she rushed before the King, her moon-like cheeks stained red with tears of blood.”
#188
به پیش پدر شد پر از درد و باک
✦
خروشان به سر بر همی ریخت خاک
“She stood before her father full of agony and dread, wailing bitterly while pouring dust upon her head.”
#189
بدو گفت کای پرهنر شهریار
✦
چرا کرد خواهی مرا خاکسار
“She cried to him: 'O noble and accomplished sovereign, why would you bring such ruin and humiliation upon me?'”
#190
دلت را چرا بستی اندر فریب
✦
همی از بلندی نبینی نشیب
“'Why have you bound your heart to deceit and lies, blind to the swift downfall that follows high estate?'”
#191
سر تاجداران مبر بی‌گناه
✦
که نپسندد این داور هور و ماه
“'Do not behead innocent crowned rulers, for the Judge of Sun and Moon will never suffer such wrong.'”
#192
سیاوش که بگذاشت ایران زمین
✦
همی از جهان بر تو کرد آفرین
“'Siyavash, who left the realm of Iran behind, bestowed praise upon you before the entire world.'”
#193
بیازرد از بهر تو شاه را
✦
چنان افسر و تخت و آن گاه را
“'For your sake, he offended his own realm's monarch, turning his back on crown, throne, and glory.'”
#194
بیامد ترا کرد پشت و پناه
✦
کنون زو چه دیدی که بردت ز راه
“'He came and sought protection at your threshold; what harm have you seen in him now that has led you astray?'”
#195
نبرد سر تاجداران کسی
✦
که با تاج بر تخت ماند بسی
“'No ruler who severed the heads of innocent crowned kings ever endured long upon his throne.'”
#196
مکن بی‌گنه بر تن من ستم
✦
که گیتی سپنج است با باد و دم
“'Do not inflict cruelty upon my innocent soul, for this transient world is but a fleeting breath.'”
#197
یکی را به چاه افگند بی‌گناه
✦
یکی با کله برنشاند به گاه
“'Fate casts an innocent man into a pit, while elevating another to the royal throne with a crown.'”
#198
سرانجام هر دو به خاک اندرند
✦
ز اختر به چنگ مغاک اندرند
“'Yet in the end, both lie beneath the dust, seized from the stars into the clutches of the grave.'”
#199
شنیدی که از آفریدون گرد
✦
ستمگاره ضحاک تازی چه برد
“'Have you not heard what befell tyrant Zahhak the Arab at the hands of valiant Fereydun?'”
#200
همان از منوچهر شاه بزرگ
✦
چه آمد به سلم و به تور سترگ
“'Or what mighty Manuchehr the Great visited upon Salm and Tur for their misdeeds?'”
#201
کنون زنده بر گاه کاووس شاه
✦
چو دستان و چون رستم کینه خواه
“'Now alive beside King Kavus's throne stand champions like Dastan Zal and vengeance-seeking Rostam!'”
#202
جهان از تهمتن بلرزد همی
✦
که توران به جنگش نیرزد همی
“'The world trembles at Tahamtan's name, and all Turan is no match for him in war.'”
#203
چو بهرام و چون زنگهٔ شاوران
✦
که نندیشد از گرز کنداوران
“'Heroes like Bahram and Zangey-e Shavaran, who fear not the heaviest maces of valiant warriors!'”
#204
همان گیو کز بیم او روز جنگ
✦
همی چرم روباه پوشد پلنگ
“'And Gev, from whose fear on the day of battle, the leopard itself wears the hide of a fox!'”
#205
درختی نشانی همی بر زمین
✦
کجا برگ خون آورد بار کین
“'You are planting a tree in this soil whose leaves will yield blood and whose fruit will be vengeance!'”
#206
به کین سیاوش سیه پوشد آب
✦
کند زار نفرین به افراسیاب
“'In mourning for Siyavash, water itself shall wear black, and pour bitter curses upon Afrasiab!'”
#207
ستمگاره‌ای بر تن خویشتن
✦
بسی یادت آید ز گفتار من
“'You are playing the tyrant against your own soul; you will remember my words all too vividly!'”
#208
نه اندر شکاری که گور افگنی
✦
دگر آهوان را به شور افگنی
“'You are not out hunting wild asses that you might frighten the other gazelles in the hunt;'”
#209
همی شهریاری ربایی ز گاه
✦
درین کار به زین نگه کن پگاه
“'You are seizing sovereignty from a noble throne; consider the outcome of this act far better!'”
#210
مده شهر توران به خیره به باد
✦
بباید که روز بد آیدت یاد
“'Do not foolishly throw the land of Turan to the wind, lest bad days arrive to haunt your memory!'”
#211
بگفت این و روی سیاوش بدید
✦
دو رخ را بکند و فغان برکشید
“She spoke these words, and seeing Siyavash bound, tore her cheeks and let out a piercing wail.”
#212
دل شاه توران برو بر بسوخت
✦
همی خیره چشم خرد را بدوخت
“The heart of Turan's King burned for her grief, yet he wilfully blinded the eye of his wisdom.”
#213
بدو گفت برگرد و ایدر مپای
✦
چه دانی کزین بد مرا چیست رای
“He said to her: 'Turn back and stay not here; what do you know of my royal counsel in this ill affair?'”
#214
به کاخ بلندش یکی خانه بود
✦
فرنگیس زان خانه بیگانه بود
“Within his high palace stood a hidden chamber, to which Farangis was dragged as a stranger.”
#215
مر او را دران خانه انداختند
✦
در خانه را بند برساختند
“They cast her into that solitary room and firmly locked the heavy doors upon her.”
#216
بفرمود پس تا سیاووش را
✦
مرآن شاه بی‌کین و خاموش را
“He then commanded regarding Siyavash—that silent, malice-free Prince:”
#217
که این را بجایی بریدش که کس
✦
نباشد ورا یار و فریادرس
“'Take him away to a remote, desolate place where none may offer him help or succor!'”
#218
سرش را ببرید یکسر ز تن
✦
تنش کرگسان را بپوشد کفن
“'Sever his head entirely from his body, and let vultures provide a shroud for his corpse!'”
#219
بباید که خون سیاوش زمین
✦
نبوید نروید گیا روز کین
“'Let not the ground smell the blood of Siyavash, nor grass sprout where it spills on the day of vengeance!'”
#220
همی تاختندش پیاده کشان
✦
چنان روزبانان مردم کشان
“They dragged him along on foot with relentless speed, like murderous executioners driving their prey.”
#221
سیاوش بنالید با کردگار
✦
که‌ای برتر از گردش روزگار
“Siyavash cried out in agony to the Creator: 'O You who are far above the turnings of Time and Fate!'”
#222
یکی شاخ پیدا کن از تخم من
✦
چو خورشید تابنده بر انجمن
“'Bring forth a radiant branch from my seed, shining like the sun over every assembly,'”
#223
که خواهد ازین دشمنان کین خویش
✦
کند تازه در کشور آیین خویش
“'Who shall avenge my blood upon these foes and renew his righteous tradition throughout this realm.'”
#224
همی شد پس پشت او پیلسم
✦
دو دیده پر از خون و دل پر ز غم
“Pilsam walked behind him with tears of blood filling his eyes and a heart heavy with grief.”
#225
سیاوش بدو گفت پدرود باش
✦
زمین تار و تو جاودان پود باش
“Siyavash said to him: 'Farewell! Though the earth grow dark, may your foundation endure forever.'”
#226
درودی ز من سوی پیران رسان
✦
بگویش که گیتی دگر شد بسان
“'Convey a greeting from me to Piran, and tell him that the world has turned utterly upside down.'”
#227
به پیران نه زین‌گونه بودم امید
✦
همی پند او باد بد من چو بید
“'I expected not such a fate through Piran; his advice was but wind, and I now tremble like a willow tree.'”
#228
مرا گفته بود او که با صد هزار
✦
زره‌دار و برگستوان‌ور سوار
“'He had sworn to me that with a hundred thousand armored warriors and caparisoned horsemen,'”
#229
چو برگرددت روز یار توام
✦
بگاه چرا مرغزار توام
“'"If fortune turns away from thee, I am thy ally; in times of need, I am thy lush meadow."'”
#230
کنون پیش گرسیوز اندر دوان
✦
پیاده چنین خوار و تیره‌روان
“'Yet now, before Garsivaz, I am forced to run on foot, so humbled and heavy-hearted.'”
#231
نبینم همی یار با خود کسی
✦
که بخروشدی زار بر من بسی
“'I see no companion by my side who might weep bitterly over my wretched fate.'”
#232
چو از شهر و ز لشکر اندر گذشت
✦
کشانش ببردند بر سوی دشت
“When they had passed beyond the city and the host, they dragged him captive toward the open plain.”
#233
ز گرسیوز آن خنجر آبگون
✦
گروی زره بستد از بهر خون
“From Garsivaz, Gorui-ye Zereh took that tempered blade to shed the innocent prince's blood.”
#234
بیفگند پیل ژیان را به خاک
✦
نه شرم آمدش زان سپهبد نه باک
“He cast that fierce elephant to the earth, feeling neither shame before the warlord nor dread of consequences.”
#235
یکی تشت بنهاد زرین برش
✦
جدا کرد زان سرو سیمین سرش
“He placed a golden basin beside him and severed the head from that silver cypress-like body.”
#236
بجایی که فرموده بد تشت خون
✦
گروی زره برد و کردش نگون
“Where it had been commanded, Gorui-ye Zereh carried the bowl of blood and poured it out upon the soil.”
#237
یکی باد با تیره گردی سیاه
✦
برآمد بپوشید خورشید و ماه
“A tempestuous wind with pitch-black dust arose, eclipsing both the sun and the moon from sight.”
#238
همی یکدگر را ندیدند روی
✦
گرفتند نفرین همه بر گروی
“None could discern another's face in the darkness, and all who were present cast curses upon Gorui.”

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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