#1
چو خورشید زد پنجه بر پشت گاو
✦
ز هامون برآمد خروش چکاو
“When the sun struck its claws upon the back of the Bull, the song of the lark arose from the plains.”
#2
ز درگاه کاموس برخاست غو
✦
که او بود اسپ افگن و پیش رو
“A tumult arose from the court of Kamus, for he was a steed-feller and a warrior who rode in the vanguard.”
#3
سپاه انجمن کرد و جوشن بداد
✦
دلش پر ز رزم و سرش پر ز باد
“He gathered his army and distributed armor, his heart brimmed with fight and his head full of haughtiness.”
#4
زره بود در زیر پیراهنش
✦
کله ترگ بود و قبا جوشنش
“He wore chainmail beneath his tunic, a war helmet covered his head, and his robe was a sturdy coat of mail.”
#5
بایران خروش آمد از دیده‌گاه
✦
کزین روی تنگ اندر آمد سپاه
“A shout echoed through the Iranian lookout posts, warning that the army was pouring through the narrow mountain pass.”
#6
درفش سپهبد گو پیلتن
✦
پدید آمد از دور با انجمن
“The banner of the elephant-bodied commander appeared from afar amidst the gathering host.”
#7
وزین روی دیگر ز توران سپاه
✦
هوا گشت برسان ابر سیاه
“And from the other side, the host of Turan turned the sky as dark as a black cloud.”
#8
سپهبد سواری چو یک لخت کوه
✦
زمین گشته از نعل اسپش ستوه
“The chieftain rode like a fragment of a mountain, the earth groaning beneath the heavy iron of his horse's shoes.”
#9
یکی گرز همچون سر گاومیش
✦
سپاه از پس و نیزه‌دارانش پیش
“He bore a mace shaped like the head of a bull; behind him followed his main force, preceded by spear-bearing warriors.”
#10
همی جوشد از گرز آن یال و کفت
✦
سزد گر بمانی ازو در شگفت
“From his mace, his neck, and broad shoulders, power seethed; it would be fitting if you marveled at his frame.”
#11
وزین روی ایران سپهدار طوس
✦
بابر اندر آورد آوای کوس
“On the Iranian side, Commander Tus made the boom of the war drums reach up to the clouds.”
#12
خروشیدن دیده‌بان پهلوان
✦
چو بشنید شد شاد و روشن‌روان
“When the lookout heard the commander's roar, his heart grew joyful and his soul turned bright.”
#13
ز نزدیک گودرز کشواد تفت
✦
سواری بنزد فریبرز رفت
“From beside Gudarz, son of Kashvad, a swift rider galloped to Prince Fariburz,”
#14
که توران سپه سوی جنگ آمدند
✦
رده برکشیدند و تنگ آمدند
“Saying: 'The Turanian host advances into battle; they have formed tight ranks and press forward.'”
#15
تو آن کن که از گوهر تو سزاست
✦
که تو مهتری و پدر پادشاست
“'Act as befits your royal lineage, for you are a prince and your father is the King.'”
#16
که گرد تهمتن برآمد ز راه
✦
هم اکنون بیاید بدین رزمگاه
“'For the dust of Tahamtan Rostam has risen from the road; he shall reach this battlefield in this very hour.'”
#17
فریبرز با لشکری گرد نیو
✦
بیامد بپیوست با طوس و گیو
“Fariburz, accompanied by a brave contingent of knights, arrived and joined Tus and Giv.”
#18
بر کوه لشکر بیاراستند
✦
درفش خجسته بپیراستند
“They arrayed the army upon the slope of the mountain and adorned the blessed banner.”
#19
چو با میسره راست شد میمنه
✦
همان ساقه و قلب و جای بنه
“When the left wing was balanced with the right, as were the rear, the center, and the supply lines,”
#20
برآمد خروشیدن کرنای
✦
سپه چون سپهر اندر آمد ز جای
“The roar of the clarions sounded, and the host moved forward like the revolving heavens.”
#21
چو کاموس تنگ اندر آمد بجنگ
✦
بهامون زمانی نبودش درنگ
“When Kamus closed in for battle, he tarried not a moment upon the plain.”
#22
سپه را بکردار دریای آب
✦
که از کوه سیل اندر آید شتاب
“He brought forth his army like a ocean wave, swift as a torrent cascading from a mountain,”
#23
بیاورد و پیش هماون رسید
✦
هوا نیلگون شد زمین ناپدید
“And arrived before Hamavan; the air turned dark indigo and the earth was veiled from sight.”
#24
چو نزدیک شد سر سوی کوه کرد
✦
پر از خنده رخ سوی انبوه کرد
“As he drew near, he turned his head toward the mountain and looked upon the gathered host with a boastful laugh,”
#25
که این لشکری گشن و کنداورست
✦
نه پیران و هومان و آن لشکرست
“Saying: 'This is indeed a vast and valiant host, unlike Piran and Homan's defeated forces!'”
#26
که دارید ز ایرانیان جنگجوی
✦
که با من بروی اندر آرند روی
“'Which of the Iranian warriors do you have who dare to stand face-to-face against me?'”
#27
ببینید بالا و برز مرا
✦
برو بازوی و تیغ و گرز مرا
“'Behold my stature and stature, my chest, arm, sword, and my crushing mace!'”
#28
چو بشنید گیو این سخن بردمید
✦
برآشفت و تیغ از میان برکشید
“When Giv heard these boasting words, he boiled with rage and drew his sword from his waist.”
#29
چو نزدیک‌تر شد بکاموس گفت
✦
که این را مگر ژنده پیلست جفت
“As he drew closer to Kamus, he said: 'None but a colossal elephant could be a match for this one!'”
#30
کمان برکشید و بزه بر نهاد
✦
ز دادار نیکی دهش کرد یاد
“He bent his bow, notched the bowstring, and remembered the name of God, the giver of all good.”
#31
بکاموس بر تیرباران گرفت
✦
کمان را چو ابر بهاران گرفت
“He rained a shower of arrows upon Kamus, holding his bow like a rain-bearing spring cloud.”
#32
چو کاموس دست و گشادش بدید
✦
بزیر سپر کرد سر ناپدید
“When Kamus saw Giv's archery skill and release, he tucked his head behind his shield.”
#33
بنیزه درآمد بکردار گرگ
✦
چو شیری برافراز پیلی سترگ
“He charged forward with his spear like a wolf, like a lion towering upon a giant elephant.”
#34
چو آمد بنزدیک بدخواه اوی
✦
یکی نیزه زد بر کمرگاه اوی
“When he neared his enemy, he thrust a heavy spear directly at Giv's waist.”
#35
چو شد گیو جنبان بزین اندرون
✦
ازو دور شد نیزهٔ آبگون
“Though Giv was shaken in his saddle, the steel spear slipped away without piercing him.”
#36
سبک تیغ را برکشید از نیام
✦
خروشید و جوشید و برگفت نام
“Swiftly Giv drew his sword from its scabbard, shouted, seethed, and called out his own name.”
#37
به پیش سوار اندر آمد دژم
✦
بزد تیغ و شد نیزهٔ او قلم
“Fiercely he charged against the horseman; he struck with his sword and sliced Kamus's spear into a reed.”
#38
ز قلب سپه طوس چون بنگرید
✦
نگه کرد و جنگ دلیران بدید
“When Tus watched from the army's center and observed the ferocious struggle of these champions,”
#39
بدانست کو مرد کاموس نیست
✦
چنو نیزه‌ور نیز جز طوس نیست
“He realized Giv alone was no match for Kamus, and that none but Tus could match such a spearman.”
#40
خروشان بیامد ز قلب سپاه
✦
بیاری بر گیو شد کینه‌خواه
“Roaring, he rode out from the center of the army to aid Giv and seek vengeance.”
#41
عنان را بپیچید کاموس تنگ
✦
میان دو گرد اندر آمد بجنگ
“Kamus pulled his reins tight and entered combat between the two champions.”
#42
ز تگ اسپ طوس دلاور بماند
✦
سپهبد برو نام یزدان بخواند
“The steed of brave Tus faltered from exhaustion; the commander called upon the Holy Name of God.”
#43
به نیزه پیاده به آوردگاه
✦
همی گشت با او بپیش سپاه
“Spear in hand, he fought on foot upon the battlefield, turning before the front ranks of the host.”
#44
دو گرد گرانمایه و یک سوار
✦
کشانی نشد سیر زان کارزار
“Two noble heroes on foot against one mounted warrior; yet Kamus of Kushan was not sated with battle.”
#45
برین گونه تا تیره شد جای هور
✦
همی بود بر دشت هر گونه شور
“In this manner, until the sun's chariot grew dark, clamor and combat echoed across the plain.”
#46
چو شد دشت بر گونهٔ آبنوس
✦
پراگنده گشتند کاموس و طوس
“When the plain turned dark as ebony night, Kamus and Tus parted ways.”
#47
سوی خیمه رفتند هر دو گروه
✦
یکی سوی دشت و دگر سوی کوه
“Both hosts retired unto their tents, one toward the plain and the other toward the mountain.”
#48
چو گردون تهی شد ز خورشید و ماه
✦
طلایه برون شد ز هر دو سپاه
“When the heavens grew bare of sun and moon, night-patrols went forth from both armies.”
#49
ازان دیده گه دیده، بگشاد لب
✦
که شد دشت پر خاک و تاریک شب
“From the lookout post, the watchman gave voice, declaring that the plain was shrouded in dust and night's gloom.”
#50
پر از گفتگویست هامون و راغ
✦
میان یلان نیز چندین چراغ
“Low voices echoed across the plain and meadow, while countelss lanterns flickered among the valiant warriors.”
#51
همانا که آمد گو پیلتن
✦
دمان و ز زابل یکی انجمن
“"Verily, the elephant-bodied hero has arrived in fury, bringing a great host from Zabul!"”
#52
چو بشنید گودرز کشواد تفت
✦
شب تیره از کوه خارا برفت
“When Goudarz son of Kashvad heard this in haste, he set out from the flinty mountain in the dark of night.”
#53
پدید آمد آن اژدهافش درفش
✦
شب تیره‌گون کرد گیتی بنفش
“Then appeared that dragon-crested banner, turning the dark globe of night into violet hues.”
#54
چو گودرز روی تهمتن بدید
✦
شد از آب دیده رخش ناپدید
“When Goudarz beheld the face of Tahamtan, his eyes filled so with tears that the hero's face grew blurred.”
#55
پیاده شد از اسپ و رستم همان
✦
پیاده بیامد چو باد دمان
“He dismounted his steed, and Rostam likewise dismounted, advancing swiftly like a raging wind.”
#56
گرفتند مر یکدگر را کنار
✦
ز هر دو برآمد خروشی بزار
“They locked each other in embrace, and from them both rose a mournful cry.”
#57
ازان نامدارن گودرزیان
✦
که از کینه جستن سرآمد زمان
“Weeping for those renowned heroes of Goudarz's line whose lives had ended in vengeance.”
#58
بدو گفت گودرز کای پهلوان
✦
هشیوار و جنگی و روشن‌روان
“Goudarz spoke to him, saying: "O champion! Wise, warrior bold, and luminous of soul!”
#59
همی تاج و گاه از تو گیرد فروغ
✦
سخن هرچ گویی نباشد دروغ
“"Crown and throne derive their splendor from thee; whatever word thou speakest is devoid of falsehood.”
#60
تو ایرانیان را ز مام و پدر
✦
بهی هم ز گنج و ز تخت و گهر
“"To the Iranians, thou art dearer than mother and father, far greater than treasures, thrones, and jewels.”
#61
چنانیم بی‌تو چو ماهی بخاک
✦
بتنگ اندرون سر تن اندر هلاک
“"Without thee, we are like fish upon the dry sand—distressed in head, our bodies bound for ruin.”
#62
چو دیدم کنون خوب چهر ترا
✦
همین پرسش گرم و مهر ترا
“"Now that I have seen thy handsome face, thy warm greetings, and thy profound affection,”
#63
مرا سوگ آن ارجمندان نماند
✦
ببخت تو جز روی خندان نماند
“"Grief for those noble lost ones leaves my heart; by thy fortune, naught remains save a joyful smile."”
#64
بدو گفت رستم که دل شاد دار
✦
ز غمهای گیتی سر آزاد دار
“Rostam replied to him: "Keep thy heart joyful, and free thy mind from the sorrows of this world.”
#65
که گیتی سراسر فریبست و بند
✦
گهی سودمندی و گاهی گزند
“"For the world is entirely trickery and a snare—at times granting profit, and at times calamity.”
#66
یکی را ببستر یکی را بجنگ
✦
یکی را بنام و یکی را بننگ
“"One perishes in bed, another in the thick of battle; one leaves with honor, and another with shame.”
#67
همی رفت باید کزین چاره نیست
✦
مرا نیز از مرگ پتیاره نیست
“"We all must depart, for there is no escape; nor am I myself immune to destructive death.”
#68
روان تو از درد بی‌درد باد
✦
همه رفتن ما بآورد باد
“"May thy soul be freed from all sorrow, and may our march culminate in glorious combat!"”
#69
ازان پس چو آگاه شد طوس و گیو
✦
ز ایران نبرده سواران نیو
“Thereafter, when Tus and Giv, and the valiant, battle-hardened horsemen of Iran grew aware,”
#70
که رستم به کوه هماون رسید
✦
مر او را جهاندیده گودرز دید
“That Rostam had reached Mount Hamavan, and that world-wise Goudarz had met him,”
#71
برفتند چون باد لشکر ز جای
✦
خروش آمد و نالهٔ کرنای
“The host stirred like the rushing wind, as shouts arose and clarions wailed.”
#72
چو آمد درفش تهمتن پدید
✦
شب تیره لشکر برستم رسید
“When Tahamtan's standard came into view, the army reached Rostam through the dark of night.”
#73
سپاه و سپهبد پیاده شدند
✦
میان بسته و دلگشاده شدند
“Both army and commander dismounted, girded for battle yet freed of heart's despair.”
#74
خروشی برآمد ز لشکر بدرد
✦
ازان کشتگان زیر خاک نبرد
“A cry of sorrow rose from the host, weeping for those slain beneath the dust of battle.”
#75
دل رستم از درد ایشان بخست
✦
بکینه بنوی میان را ببست
“Rostam's heart was wounded by their distress, and he girded his loins anew for vengeance.”
#76
بنالید ازان پس بدرد سپاه
✦
چو آگه شد از کار آوردگاه
“The army lamented in bitter sorrow when they learned of the grim deeds of the battlefield.”
#77
بسی پندها داد و گفت ای سران
✦
بپیش آمد امروز رزمی گران
“He offered much wise counsel, saying: "O chieftains! Today a heavy battle lies before us.”
#78
چنین است آغاز و فرجام جنگ
✦
یکی تاج یابد یکی گور تنگ
“"Such is the beginning and the end of war: one wins a crown, another a narrow grave."”
#79
سراپرده زد گرد گیتی‌فروز
✦
پس پشت او لشکر نیمروز
“The world-illuminating hero pitched his grand pavilion, with the army of Nimruz arrayed behind him.”
#80
بکوه اندرون خیمه‌ها ساختند
✦
درفش سپهبد برافراختند
“They pitched their tents within the mountain slope and raised high the warlord's banner.”
#81
نشست از بر تخت بر پیلتن
✦
بزرگان لشکر شدند انجمن
“The Elephant-bodied champion sat upon the throne, and the chieftains of the host assembled around him.”
#82
ز یک دست بنشست گودرز و گیو
✦
بدست دگر طوس و گردان نیو
“On one side sat Gudarz and Giv, and on the other sat Tus alongside the valiant warriors.”
#83
فروزان یکی شمع بنهاد پیش
✦
سخن رفت هر گونه بر کم و بیش
“A radiant candle was set before him, and words were exchanged on matters great and small.”
#84
ز کار بزرگان و جنگ سپاه
✦
ز رخشنده خورشید و گردنده ماه
“They spoke of the deeds of the nobles, the battles of the armies, under the shining sun and the turning moon.”
#85
فراوان ازان لشکر بی‌شمار
✦
بگفتند با مهتر نامدار
“Much did they recount concerning that innumerable enemy army to the renowned chieftain.”
#86
ز کاموس و شنگل ز خاقان چین
✦
ز منشور جنگی و مردان کین
“Of Kamus and Shangal, of the Khaqan of Chin, and of Manshur the warrior and his vengeful men.”
#87
ز کاموس خود جای گفتار نیست
✦
که ما را بدو راه دیدار نیست
“'Of Kamus indeed words fail us, for we have no power even to withstand his sight.'”
#88
درختیست بارش همه گرز و تیغ
✦
نترسد اگر سنگ بارد ز میغ
“'He is a tree whose fruit is maces and swords; he fears not though stones rain from the clouds.'”
#89
ز پیلان جنگی ندارد گریز
✦
سرش پر ز کینست و دل پر ستیز
“'He flees not before war-elephants; his head is full of malice and his heart with strife.'”
#90
ازین کوه تا پیش دریای شهد
✦
درفش و سپاهست و پیلان و مهد
“'From this mountain unto the shore of the Honey Sea, there are banners, hosts, elephants, and litters.'”
#91
اگر سوی ما پهلوان سپاه
✦
نکردی گذر کار گشتی تباه
“'Had not the paladin of the host come unto us, our cause would have ended in utter ruin.'”
#92
سپاس از خداوند پیروزگر
✦
که او آورد رنج و سختی بسر
“'Praise be to the Victorious God, who hath brought our toil and hardship to an end.'”
#93
تن ما بتو زنده شد بی‌گمان
✦
نبد هیچ کس را امید زمان
“'Our lives are revived through thee, without a doubt; none among us had any hope of surviving.'”
#94
ازان کشتگان یک زمان پهلوان
✦
همی بود گریان و تیره‌روان
“Hearing of those slain, the champion wept for a time with a grief-stricken soul.”
#95
ازان پس چنین گفت کز چرخ ماه
✦
برو تا سر تیره خاک سیاه
“Thereafter he spoke, saying: 'From the orb of the moon down to the dark black earth below...'”
#96
نبینی مگر گرم و تیمار و رنج
✦
برینست رسم سرای سپنج
“'...Thou shalt see naught but toil, grief, and pain; such is the way of this transitory abode.'”
#97
گزافست کردار گردان سپهر
✦
گهی زهر و جنگست و گه نوش و مهر
“'Fickle are the workings of the turning sphere; now it brings poison and war, now sweet elixir and love.'”
#98
اگر کشته گر مرده هم بگذریم
✦
سزد گر بچون و چرا ننگریم
“'Whether slain in battle or dying naturally, we all must pass away; it is fitting that we question not why or how.'”
#99
چنان رفت باید که آید زمان
✦
مشو تیز با گردش آسمان
“'One must depart when one's appointed time arrives; do not strive fiercely against the turning of fate.'”
#100
جهاندار پیروزگر یار باد
✦
سر بخت دشمن نگونسار باد
“'May the Victorious Lord of the world be our aid, and may the fortune of the enemy be overturned!'”
#101
ازین پس همه کینه باز آوریم
✦
جهان را بایران نیاز آوریم
“'Henceforth we shall exact full vengeance, and bring the world under submission to Iran.'”
#102
بزرگان همه خواندند آفرین
✦
که بی‌تو مبادا زمان و زمین
“The chieftains all sang praises, crying: 'May time and the earth never exist without thee!'”
#103
همیشه بدی نامبردار و شاد
✦
در شاه پیروز بی‌تو مباد
“'Mayest thou forever remain renowned and joyful, and may the court of the victorious king never be deprived of thee!'”
#104
چو از کوه بفروخت گیتی فروز
✦
دو زلف شب تیره بگرفت روز
“When the sun, illuminator of the world, gleamed over the mountain, daylight seized the dark tresses of the night.”
#105
ازان چادر قیر بیرون کشید
✦
بدندان لب ماه در خون کشید
“It drew the world forth from its pitch-black veil, and pressed its teeth into the blood-stained lips of the moon.”
#106
تبیره برآمد ز هر دو سرای
✦
برفتند گردان لشکر ز جای
“The war-drums resounded from both camps, and the valiant warriors advanced from their positions.”
#107
سپهدار هومان به پیش سپاه
✦
بیامد همی کرد هر سو نگاه
“Commander Human stepped forth ahead of the host, casting his gaze in every direction.”
#108
که ایرانیان را که یار آمدست
✦
که خرگاه و خیمه بکار آمدست
“To see what ally had arrived to succour the Iranians, for grand pavilions and tents were now pitched in full array.”
#109
ز پیروزه دیبا سراپرده دید
✦
فراوان بگرد اندرش پرده دید
“He beheld a pavilion of turquoise silk, surrounded by numerous outer tents and screens.”
#110
درفش و سنان سپهبد بپیش
✦
همان گردش اختر بد بپیش
“Before it stood the commander's banner and spear, signifying an evil turn of fate for the enemy.”
#111
سراپرده‌ای دید دیگر سیاه
✦
درفشی درفشان بکردار ماه
“He saw another royal pavilion of black silk, with a banner gleaming like the radiant moon.”
#112
فریبرز کاوس با پیل و کوس
✦
فراوان زده خیمه نزدیک طوس
“Fariburz, son of Kavus, with war-elephants and drums, had pitched many tents near Tus.”
#113
بیامد پر از غم بپیران بگفت
✦
که شد روز با رنج بسیار جفت
“Full of grief, Human came and said to Piran: 'Our day hath now become wedded to immense trouble!'”
#114
کز ایران ده و دار و بانگ خروش
✦
فراوان ز هر شب فزون بود دوش
“'For from the Iranian camp, the clamour, uproar, and shouts last night far exceeded any previous night.'”
#115
بتنها برفتم ز خیمه پگاه
✦
بلشکر بهر جای کردم نگاه
“'I went forth alone from my tent at dawn, and scanned the army from every side.'”
#116
از ایران فراوان سپاه آمدست
✦
بیاری برین رزمگاه آمدست
“A vast army has arrived from Iran; they have come to this battlefield to offer aid.”
#117
ز دیبا یکی سبز پرده‌سرای
✦
یکی اژدهافش درفشی بپای
“A pavilion of green silk is pitched, and beside it stands a dragon-adorned banner.”
#118
سپاهی بگرد اندرش زابلی
✦
سپردار و با خنجر کابلی
“Around it stands a Zabolian army, shield-bearers armed with Kabuli daggers.”
#119
گمانم که رستم ز نزدیک شاه
✦
بیاری بیامد بدین رزمگاه
“I suspect that Rostam himself has come from the King's presence to bring help to this battlefield.”
#120
بدو گفت پیران که بد روزگار
✦
اگر رستم آید بدین کارزار
“Piran said to him: 'Woe to us if Rostam enters this conflict!”
#121
نه کاموس ماند نه خاقان چین
✦
نه شنگل نه گردان توران زمین
“Neither Kamus nor the Khaqan of China shall endure, nor Shangal, nor any of Turan's warriors.'”
#122
هم‌انگه ز لشکر گه اندر کشید
✦
بیامد سپهدار را بنگرید
“Straightway he drew back into the encampment, and came to look upon the commander.”
#123
وزانجا دمان سوی کاموس شد
✦
بنزدیک منشور و فرطوس شد
“Hastening from there, he went toward Kamus, approaching Mansur and Fartus as well.”
#124
که شبگیر ز ایدر برفتم پگاه
✦
بگشتم همه گرد ایران سپاه
“Saying: 'At early dawn I departed hence, and rode all around the host of Iran.”
#125
بیاری فراوان سپاه آمدست
✦
بسی کینه‌ور رزمخواه آمدست
“A vast force has arrived to reinforce them, along with many vengeful, battle-seeking warriors.”
#126
گمانم که آن رستم پیلتن
✦
که گفتم همی پیش این انجمن
“I surmise that the elephant-bodied Rostam, of whom I have repeatedly warned this assembly,”
#127
برفت از در شاه ایران سپاه
✦
بیاری بیامد بدین رزمگاه
“Has set forth from the court of the Shah of Iran and come to this battlefield to aid his comrades.'”
#128
بدو گفت کاموس کای پر خرد
✦
دلت یکسر اندیشهٔ بد برد
“Kamus said to him: 'O wise one! Your heart is completely consumed by gloomy forebodings.”
#129
چنان دان که کیخسرو آمد بجنگ
✦
مکن خیره دل را بدین کار تنگ
“Know that even if Kay Khosrow himself comes to war, do not uselessly distress your heart over this matter!”
#130
ز رستم چه رانی تو چندین سخن
✦
ز زابلستان یاد چندین مکن
“Why do you speak so much of Rostam? Why do you constantly bring up Zabolestan?”
#131
درفش مرا گر ببیند به چنگ
✦
بدریای چین بر خروشد نهنگ
“If he but sees my banner in my grip, the sea-monster will cry out in dread upon the Sea of China!”
#132
برو لشکر آرای و برکش سپاه
✦
درفش اندر آور به آوردگاه
“Go now, array the host and march the army forward; bring the banner into the arena of combat.”
#133
چو من با سپاه اندر آیم بجنگ
✦
نباید که باشد شما را درنگ
“When I enter the fray with the army, let there be no hesitation or delay on your part.”
#134
ببینی تو پیکار مردان کنون
✦
شده دشت یکسر چو دریای خون
“You shall now behold the combat of true heroes, as the entire plain turns into a sea of blood.'”
#135
دل پهلوان زان سخن شاد گشت
✦
ز اندیشهٔ رستم آزاد گشت
“The hero's heart grew joyful at those words, freed from the troubling thoughts of Rostam.”
#136
سپه را همه ترگ و جوشن بداد
✦
همی کرد گفتار کاموس یاد
“He distributed helmets and coats of mail to all the troops, while constantly reflecting upon Kamus's bold words.”
#137
وزان جایگه پیش خاقان چین
✦
بیامد ببوسید روی زمین
“And from that place he went before the Khaqan of China and kissed the ground before him.”
#138
بدو گفت شاها انوشه بدی
✦
روانرا بدیدار توشه بدی
“He said to him: 'O King, may you live eternally, and may your sight be food and strength for the soul!”
#139
بریدی یکی راه دشوار و دور
✦
خریدی چنین رنج ما را بسور
“You traversed a long and grueling path, enduring such hardship to turn our suffering into celebration.”
#140
بدین سان بآزرم افراسیاب
✦
گذشتی به کشتی ز دریای آب
“In this wise, out of respect for Afrasiab, you crossed the sea of water by ship.”
#141
سپاه از تو دارد همی پشت راست
✦
چنان کن که از گوهر تو سزاست
“Through you, the army stands firm and confident; act now in a manner worthy of your noble lineage.”
#142
بیارای پیلان بزنگ و درای
✦
جهان پر کن از نالهٔ کرنای
“Adorn the elephants with bells and rattles, and fill the world with the blare of trumpets!”
#143
من امروز جنگ آورم با سپاه
✦
تو با پیل و با کوس در قلبگاه
“Today I shall lead the army into battle, while you remain at the center with the war-elephants and drums.”
#144
نگه دار پشت سپاه مرا
✦
بابر اندر آور کلاه مرا
“Guard the rear of my army, and raise my crown high unto the clouds!”
#145
چنین گفت کاموس جنگی بمن
✦
که تو پیش‌رو باش زین انجمن
“The warlike Kamus said to me: 'You shall be the vanguard of this assembly.'”
#146
بسی سخت سوگندهای دراز
✦
بخورد و بر آهیخت گرز از فراز
“He swore solemn, binding oaths and raised his mace aloft,”
#147
که امروز من جز بدین گرز جنگ
✦
نسازم وگر بارد از ابر سنگ
“Vowing: 'Today I shall fight with no weapon other than this mace, even if stones rain down from the clouds!'”
#148
چو بشنید خاقان بزد کرنای
✦
تو گفتی که کوه اندر آمد ز جای
“When the Khaqan heard this, he ordered the clarions sounded; you would have said the very mountains shifted!”
#149
ز بانگ تبیره زمین و سپهر
✦
بپوشید کوه و بیفگند مهر
“From the roar of the drums, earth and sky were shaken, the mountains were obscured, and the sun's light was cast down.”
#150
بفرمود تا مهد بر پشت پیل
✦
ببستند و شد روی گیتی چو نیل
“He ordered the royal litter to be bound upon an elephant's back, and the face of the world turned dark as indigo.”
#151
بیامد گرازان بقلب سپاه
✦
شد از گرد خورشید تابان سیاه
“He marched proudly into the center of the army, as the rising dust turned the radiant sun dark.”
#152
خروشیدن زنگ و هندی درای
✦
همی دل برآورد گفتی ز جای
“The clamor of bells and Indian chimes was so fierce that it seemed to tear one's heart from its place.”
#153
ز بس تخت پیروزه بر پشت پیل
✦
درفشان بکردار دریای نیل
“So many turquoise thrones rested on elephant backs that they gleamed like the glittering waters of the Nile.”
#154
بچشم اندرون روشنایی نماند
✦
همی با روان آشنایی نماند
“No sight remained in the eyes of men, nor did their souls feel any kinship with life.”
#155
پر از گرد شد چشم و کام سپهر
✦
تو گفتی بقیر اندر اندود چهر
“Dust filled the eyes and palate of the heavens, as though the face of the sky had been smeared with dark pitch.”
#156
چو خاقان بیامد بقلب سپاه
✦
بچرخ اندرون ماه گم کرد راه
“When the Khaqan took his place at the army's heart, even the moon lost its way in the turning sphere.”
#157
ز کاموس چون کوه شد میمنه
✦
کشیدند بر سوی هامون بنه
“With Kamus like a mountain, the right wing stood firm, while they drew the baggage train across the plain.”
#158
سوی میسره نیز پیران برفت
✦
برادرش هومان و کلباد تفت
“To the left wing went Piran, along with his brothers Houman and the swift-riding Kulbad.”
#159
چو رستم بدید آنک خاقان چه کرد
✦
بیاراست در قلب جای نبرد
“When Rostam witnessed the Khaqan’s array, he marshaled his forces at the heart of the battlefield.”
#160
چنین گفت رستم که گردان سپهر
✦
ببینیم تا بر که گردد بمهر
“Rostam spoke thus: "Let us see upon whom the turning heavens will shine with favor."”
#161
چگونه بود بخشش آسمان
✦
کرا زین بزرگان سرآید زمان
“"How shall destiny bestow its decree, and for which of these magnates has time run out?"”
#162
درنگی نبودم براه اندکی
✦
دو منزل همی کرد رخشم یکی
“"I tarried not at all upon the road; Rakhsh covered two stages in a single stride."”
#163
کنون سم این بارگی کوفتست
✦
ز راه دراز اندر آشوفتست
“"Now the hooves of my steed are battered, exhausted and worn from the grueling journey."”
#164
نیارم برو کرد نیرو بسی
✦
شدن جنگ جویان به پیش کسی
“"I cannot press him beyond his limits to charge ahead of the warriors against the foe."”
#165
یک امروز در جنگ یاری کنید
✦
برین دشمنان کامگاری کنید
“"For this single day, assist one another in battle and triumph over these enemies."”
#166
که گردان سپهر جهان یار ماست
✦
مه و مهر گردون نگهدار ماست
“"For the turning sphere of the universe favors us; the moon and the sun are our protectors."”
#167
بفرمود تا طوس بربست کوس
✦
بیاراست لشکر چو چشم خروس
“He commanded Tus to bind the war-drums and array the army bright and sharp as a rooster's eye.”
#168
سپهبد بزد نای و رویینه خم
✦
خروش آمد و نالهٔ گاودم
“The commander sounded the clarions and brass drums; there arose the blare and clamor of the horn.”
#169
بیاراست گودرز بر میمنه
✦
فرستاد بر کوه خارا بنه
“Goudarz organized the right wing and sent the baggage train toward the rocky mountain.”
#170
فریبرز کاوس بر میسره
✦
جهان چون نیستان شده یکسره
“Fariborz, son of Kay Kavus, commanded the left wing, while the plain bristled like a thicket of reeds with spears.”
#171
بقلب اندرون طوس نوذر بپای
✦
زمین شد پر از نالهٔ کرنای
“Tus, son of Nowzar, stood steadfast at the center, as the earth resounded with the blare of trumpets.”
#172
جهان شد بگرد اندرون ناپدید
✦
کسی از یلان خویشتن را ندید
“The world vanished beneath the clouds of dust; none of the heroes could even see themselves.”
#173
بشد پیلتن تا سر تیغ کوه
✦
بدیدار خاقان و توران گروه
“The elephant-bodied hero ascended to the mountain's peak to survey the Khaqan and the host of Turan.”
#174
سپه دید چندانک دریای روم
✦
ازیشان نمودی چو یک مهره موم
“He saw an army vast as the Mediterranean Sea; compared to them, a warrior seemed a mere bead of wax.”
#175
کشانی و شگنی و سقلاب و هند
✦
چغانی و رومی و وهری و سند
“Warriors of Kashan, Shighnan, Slavonia, India, Chaghan, Byzantium, Vahr, and Sindh assembled together.”
#176
جهانی شده سرخ و زرد و سیاه
✦
دگرگونه جوشن دگرگون کلاه
“A world of red, yellow, and black hues, arrayed in varied coats of mail and diverse helmets.”
#177
زبانی دگرگون بهر گوشه‌ای
✦
درفش نوآیین و نو توشه‌ای
“A different tongue echoed from every corner, each with novel banners and unfamiliar provisions.”
#178
ز پیلان و آرایش و تخت عاج
✦
همان یاره و افسر و طوق و تاج
“Elephant legions, majestic displays, thrones of ivory, along with armlets, diadems, collars, and crowns.”
#179
جهان بود یکسر چو باغ بهشت
✦
بدیدار ایشان شده خوب زشت
“The realm seemed transformed into a paradise garden, making all other sights appear pale and dull by comparison.”
#180
بران کوه سر ماند رستم شگفت
✦
ببرگشتن اندیشه اندر گرفت
“Rostam stood amazed upon the mountain peak, and turned his mind to contemplation as he withdrew.”
#181
که تا چون نماید بما چرخ مهر
✦
چه بازی کند پیر گشته سپهر
“Wondering how fate would show favor to them, and what trick the ancient heavens would play.”
#182
فرود آمد از کوه و دل بد نکرد
✦
گذر بر سپاه و سپهبد نکرد
“He descended from the mountain undaunted, making his way without passing directly through his host and commander.”
#183
همی گفت تا من کمر بسته‌ام
✦
بیک جای یک سال ننشسته‌ام
“He mused: "Since the day I girded my loins, I have never rested in a single place for a whole year."”
#184
فراوان سپه دیده‌ام پیش ازین
✦
ندانم که لشکر بود بیش ازین
“"I have witnessed many vast armies before, but never have I seen a force so overwhelming as this."”
#185
بفرمود تا برکشیدند کوس
✦
بجنگ اندر آمد سپهدار طوس
“He gave the order to sound the war-drums, and Commander Tus surged forward into battle.”
#186
ازان کوه سر سوی هامون کشید
✦
همی نیزه از کینه در خون کشید
“From that mountain height he turned his course toward the plain, plunging his spear into blood out of pure vengeance.”
#187
بیک نیمه از روز لشکر گذشت
✦
کشیدند صف بر دو فرسنگ دشت
“By midday the host had crossed over, drawing up their battle lines across two leagues of the plain.”
#188
ز گرد سپه روشنایی نماند
✦
ز خورشید شب را جدایی نماند
“No light remained through the dust of the armies; night could no longer be distinguished from the sun.”
#189
ز تیر و ز پیکان هوا تیره گشت
✦
همی آفتاب اندران خیره گشت
“The air grew dark with arrows and spearheads, till even the sun stood dazzled and bewildered amidst the fray.”
#190
خروش سواران و اسپان ز دشت
✦
ز بهرام و کیوان همی برگذشت
“The roar of horsemen and steeds from the plain surged higher than Mars and Saturn in the heavens.”
#191
ز جوش سواران و زخم تبر
✦
همی سنگ خارا برآورد پر
“From the turmoil of horsemen and the striking of battle-axes, hard granite itself seemed to sprout wings.”
#192
همه تیغ و ساعد ز خون بود لعل
✦
خروشان دل خاک در زیر نعل
“Every blade and forearm turned ruby-red with blood, while the heart of the earth groaned beneath the horses' hooves.”
#193
دل مرد بددل گریزان ز تن
✦
دلیران ز خفتان بریده کفن
“The hearts of cowards fled from their bodies, while brave warriors cut their shrouds from their own cuirasses.”
#194
برفتند ازان جای شیران نر
✦
عقاب دلاور برآورد پر
“The mighty lions advanced from their posts, as the valiant eagle unfurled its wings over the fray.”
#195
نماند ایچ با روی خورشید رنگ
✦
بجوش آمده خاک بر کوه و سنگ
“All color drained from the face of the sun, and the very dust upon mountain and rock began to boil.”
#196
بلشکر چنین گفت کاموس گرد
✦
که گر آسمان را بباید سپرد
“The champion Kamus addressed his army: "Even if the heavens themselves must be traversed,"”
#197
همه تیغ و گرز و کمند آورید
✦
بایرانیان تنگ و بند آورید
“"Bring forth all swords, maces, and lassos, and bring tight ruin and fetters upon the Iranians!"”
#198
جهانجوی را دل بجنگ اندرست
✦
وگرنه سرش زیر سنگ اندرست
“"The heart of the world-seeker is set on battle; otherwise, his head belongs beneath the stone of the grave!"”