#1
همی رفت پیران پر از درد و بیم
✦
شد از کار رستم دلش به دو نیم
“Piran rode forward full of grief and fear, his heart split in two by dread of Rostam.”
#2
بیامد بنزدیک ایران سپاه
✦
خروشید کای مهتر رزم خواه
“He drew near to the army of Iran and cried out: 'O noble commander seeking battle!'”
#3
شنیدم کزین لشکر بی شمار
✦
مرا یاد کردی بهنگام کار
“'I heard that from this countless host, you remembered me during the thick of battle.'”
#4
خرامیدم از پیش آن انجمن
✦
بدین انجمن تا چه خواهی ز من
“'I have stepped forth from that assembly to this host; what is it that you wish of me?'”
#5
بدو گفت رستم که نام تو چیست
✦
بدین آمدن رای و کام تو چیست
“Rostam said to him: 'What is your name? What is your intent and desire in coming here?'”
#6
چنین داد پاسخ که پیران منم
✦
سپهدار این شیر گیران منم
“He answered: 'I am Piran, the commander of these lion-capturing warriors.'”
#7
ز هومان ویسه مرا خواستی
✦
بخوبی زبان را بیاراستی
“'You asked Houman son of Viseh for me, adorning your speech with courtesy.'”
#8
دلم تیز شد تا تو از مهتران
✦
کدامی ز گردان جنگ آوران
“'My heart grew eager to learn which of the grand chieftains and warriors you are.'”
#9
بدو گفت من رستم زابلی
✦
زره‌دار با خنجر کابلی
“He replied: 'I am Rostam of Zabul, clad in mail, bearing a Kabuli dagger.'”
#10
چو بشنید پیران ز پیش سپاه
✦
بیامد بر رستم کینه خواه
“When Piran heard this, he stepped forward from his army toward the vengeful Rostam.”
#11
بدو گفت رستم که ای پهلوان
✦
درودت ز خورشید روشن روان
“Rostam said to him: 'O champion! Greetings to you from the radiant sun of the soul!'”
#12
هم از مادرش دخت افراسیاب
✦
که مهر تو بیند همیشه بخواب
“'Greetings also from his mother, the daughter of Afrasiab, who beholds your kindness in her dreams.'”
#13
بدو گفت پیران که ای پیلتن
✦
درودت ز یزدان و از انجمن
“Piran said to him: 'O elephant-bodied hero! Greetings to you from God and from this assembly!'”
#14
ز نیکی دهش آفرین بر تو باد
✦
فلک را گذر بر نگین تو باد
“'Blessings upon you from the Giver of Good; may the course of the heavens bow to your signet ring!'”
#15
ز یزدان سپاس و بدویم پناه
✦
که دیدم ترا زنده بر جایگاه
“'Praise be to God and in Him I seek refuge, that I have seen you alive and high in your place!'”
#16
زواره فرامرز و زال سوار
✦
که او ماند از خسروان یادگار
“'Are Zavareh, Faramarz, and the knight Zal—who stands as the memorial of ancient kings—'”
#17
درستند و شادان دل و سرفراز
✦
کزیشان مبادا جهان بی‌نیاز
“'All healthy, joyful, and proud? May the world never be bereft of them!'”
#18
بگویم ترا گر نداری گران
✦
گله کردن کهتر از مهتران
“'I shall tell you, if it is not burdensome, of the grievance of the lesser against the greater.'”
#19
بکشتم درختی بباغ اندرون
✦
که بارش کبست آمد و برگ خون
“'I planted a tree within the garden whose fruit became bitter colocynth and whose leaves were blood.'”
#20
ز دیده همی آب دادم برنج
✦
بدو بد مرا زندگانی و گنج
“'With difficulty I watered it with tears from my eyes; my life and treasure were devoted to it.'”
#21
مرا زو همه رنج بهر آمدست
✦
کزو بار تریاک زهر آمدست
“'My only reward from it was anguish; its yield of antidote turned to poison.'”
#22
سیاوش مرا چون پدر داشتی
✦
به پیش بدیها سپر داشتی
“'Siyavash regarded me as a father, and I served as his shield against all evil.'”
#23
بسا درد و سختی و رنجا که من
✦
کشیدم ازان شاه و زان انجمن
“'How much pain, hardship, and misery I endured for that king and for that noble realm!'”
#24
گوای من اندر جهان ایزدست
✦
گوا خواستن دادگر را بدست
“'God is my witness in this world; seeking the Just Lord as witness is righteous.'”
#25
که اکنون برآمد بسی روزگار
✦
شنیدم بسی پند آموزگار
“'Now that long time has passed, I have heard many counsels from sages.'”
#26
که شیون نه برخاست از خان من
✦
همی آتش افروزد از جان من
“'Yet no lamentation has ceased from my house, and fire ever flares within my soul.'”
#27
همی خون خروشم بجای سرشک
✦
همیشه گرفتارم اندر پزشک
“'I weep blood instead of tears, constantly entangled in the hands of physicians.'”
#28
ازین کار بهر من آمد گزند
✦
نه بر آرزو گشت چرخ بلند
“'From this affair my only share was grief; the high heaven did not turn according to my desire.'”
#29
ز تیره شب و دیده‌ام نیست شرم
✦
که من چند جوشیده‌ام خون گرم
“'I feel no shame before the dark night or my eyes for how much warm blood I have boiled in anguish.'”
#30
ز کار سیاوش چو آگه شدم
✦
ز نیک و ز بد دست کوته شدم
“'When I learned of the fate of Siyavash, I withdrew my hands from both good and evil.'”
#31
میان دو کشور دو شاه بلند
✦
چنین خوارم و زار و دل مستمند
“'Between two realms and two exalted kings, I am thus humiliated, wretched, and broken-hearted.'”
#32
فرنگیس را من خریدم بجان
✦
پدر بر سر آورده بودش زمان
“'I purchased Farangis with my own soul when her father sought to end her life.'”
#33
بخانه نهانش همی داشتم
✦
برو پشت هرگز نه برگاشتم
“'I kept her hidden in my house, and never turned my back upon her protection.'”
#34
بپاداش جان خواهد از من همی
✦
سر بدگمان خواهد از من همی
“'As my reward, he now demands my life and seeks the head of this ill-fated servant!'”
#35
پر از دردم ای پهلوان از دو روی
✦
ز دو انجمن سر پر از گفتگوی
“'I am full of pain, O champion, from both sides; my head is filled with rumors from both assemblies.'”
#36
نه راه گریزست ز افراسیاب
✦
نه جای دگر دارم آرام و خواب
“'There is no path of escape from Afrasiab, nor do I have any other place for rest or sleep.'”
#37
همم گنج و بوم است و هم چارپای
✦
نبینم همی روی رفتن بجای
“'I possess treasure, lands, and herds, yet I see no way to abandon them and go elsewhere.'”
#38
پسر هست و پوشیده‌رویان بسی
✦
چنین خسته و بستهٔ هر کسی
“'I have sons and veiled women in abundance, all vulnerable and bound to everyone.'”
#39
اگر جنگ فرماید افراسیاب
✦
نماند که چشم اندر آید بخواب
“'If Afrasiab commands war, he leaves no time for eyes to sleep.'”
#40
بناکام لشکر بباید کشید
✦
نشاید ز فرمان او آرمید
“'Unwillingly must the army be marched; one cannot rest against his command.'”
#41
بمن بر کنون جای بخشایشست
✦
سپاه اندر آوردن آرایشست
“'I deserve mercy now; bringing forth the host is merely for display.'”
#42
اگر نیستی بر دلم درد و غم
✦
ازین تخمه جز کشتن پیلسم
“'Were it not for the grief in my heart, none of this line would remain alive save Pilsam.'”
#43
جز او نیز چندی دلیر و جوان
✦
که در جنگ سیر آمدند از روان
“'Besides him, several brave and young warriors have grown weary of their lives in battle.'”
#44
ازین پس مرا بیم جانست نیز
✦
سخن چند گویم ز فرزند و چیز
“'Henceforth I fear for my own life as well; how long shall I talk of children and wealth?'”
#45
به پیروزگر بر تو ای پهلوان
✦
که از من نباشی خلیده‌روان
“'I adjure you by the Victorious Lord, O champion, that your soul be not offended by me!'”
#46
ز خویشان من بد نداری نهان
✦
براندیشی از کردگار جهان
“You harbor no ill malice toward my kinsmen, and surely you stand in awe of the Creator of the world.”
#47
بروشن روان سیاوش که مرگ
✦
مرا خوشتر از جوشن و تیغ و ترگ
“By the luminous soul of Siyavash, death to me is sweeter than wearing armor, holding a sword, and donning a helmet!”
#48
گر ایدونکه جنگی بود هم گروه
✦
تلی کشته بینی ببالای کوه
“Yet if conflict should arise between these two hosts, you will see a heap of the slain towering as high as a mountain.”
#49
کشانی و سقلاب و شگنی و هند
✦
ازین مرز تا پیش دریای سند
“Warriors of Kushan, Suqlab, Shighnan, and India, extending from this border all the way to the River Indus,”
#50
ز خون سیاوش همه بیگناه
✦
سپاهی کشیده بدین رزمگاه
“Are entirely innocent of the blood of Siyavash, yet a massive army has been drawn to this battle-ground.”
#51
ترا آشتی بهتر آید که جنگ
✦
نباید گرفتن چنین کار تنگ
“Peace becomes you far better than war; such a dire and narrow issue ought not to be forced.”
#52
نگر تا چه بینی تو داناتری
✦
برزم دلیران تواناتری
“Consider wisely what you see fit, for you are far wiser, and in the combat of champions, infinitely more mighty.”
#53
ز پیران چو بشنید رستم سخن
✦
نه بر آرزو پاسخ افگند بن
“When Rostam heard these words from Piran, he did not base his answer on mere personal desires.”
#54
بدو گفت تا من بدین رزمگاه
✦
کمر بسته‌ام با دلیران شاه
“He said to him: 'Ever since I girded myself for this field of war alongside the brave warriors of the King,”
#55
ندیدستم از تو به جز راستی
✦
ز ترکان همه راستی خواستی
“I have seen nothing from you but truthfulness, and you have ever sought honesty from all the Turks.”
#56
پلنگ این شناسد که پیکار و جنگ
✦
نه خوبست و داند همی کوه و سنگ
“Even the wild leopard knows that conflict and combat are ill, as do the very mountains and stones.”
#57
چو کین سر شهریاران بود
✦
سر و کار با تیرباران بود
“Yet when vengeance for the blood of kings is at stake, the only recourse left is a hail of arrows.”
#58
کنون آشتی را دو راه ایدرست
✦
نگر تا شما را چه اندرخورست
“Now, for peace here, two ways present themselves; consider well which is worthy of you.”
#59
یکی آنک هر کس که از خون شاه
✦
بگسترد بر خیره این رزمگاه
“First, that whoever recklessly unleashed this battle over the slain king's blood—”
#60
ببندی فرستی بر شهریار
✦
سزد گر نفرماید این کارزار
“You bind in chains and send unto the King; then it would be fitting if he called off this battle.”
#61
گنهکار خون سر بیگناه
✦
سزد گر نباشد بدین رزمگاه
“The culprit guilty of shedding innocent blood ought not to remain present on this field of battle.”
#62
و دیگر که با من ببندی کمر
✦
بیایی بر شاه پیروزگر
“And second, that you bind your waist alongside me, and come before the victorious King.”
#63
ز چیزی که ایدر بمانی همی
✦
تو آن را گرانمایه دانی همی
“Whatever precious possessions you leave behind here, which you hold to be so priceless—”
#64
بجای یکی ده بیابی ز شاه
✦
مکن یاد بنگاه توران سپاه
“You shall receive tenfold in return from the King; think no more of the Turanian camp!'”
#65
بدل گفت پیران که ژرفست کار
✦
ز توران شدن پیش آن شهریار
“Piran said to himself: 'This is a perilous matter—to abandon Turan and go before that King!”
#66
دگر چون گنه کار جوید همی
✦
دل از بیگناهان بشوید همی
“Furthermore, while he seeks the guilty, he cleanses his heart of all hatred toward the innocent.”
#67
بزرگان و خویشان افراسیاب
✦
که با گنج و تختند و با جاه و آب
“Yet the nobles and kinsmen of Afrasiab, who possess treasures, thrones, dignity, and glory—”
#68
ازین در کجا گفت یارم سخن
✦
نه سر باشد این آرزو را نه بن
“How can I dare speak of such a terms to them? This wish has neither head nor tail!',”
#69
چو هومان و کلباد و فرشیدورد
✦
کجا هست گودرز زیشان بدرد
“'Commanders like Houman, Kolbad, and Fershidvard, over whom Goudarz burns with vengeful pain—”
#70
همه زین شمارند و این روی نیست
✦
مر این آب را در جهان جوی نیست
“Are all among this guilty list, and this cannot be; there is no stream in this world for such a flow of water!”
#71
مرا چارهٔ خویش باید گرفت
✦
ره جست را پیش باید گرفت
“I must devise a remedy for myself and choose a path of clever escape.'”
#72
بدو گفت پیران که ای پهلوان
✦
همیشه جوان باش و روشن‌روان
“Piran then spoke to Rostam: 'O champion! May you remain ever young and radiant of soul!”
#73
شوم بازگویم بگردان همین
✦
بمنشور و شنگل بخاقان چین
“I shall return and relate these terms to our heroes—to Manshur, Shangal, and the Khaqan of Chin.”
#74
هیونی فرستم بافراسیاب
✦
بگویم سرش را برآرم ز خواب
“I will dispatch a swift courier to Afrasiab, report all to him, and awaken his head from slumber.'”
#75
و زانجا بیامد بلشکر چو باد
✦
کسی را که بودند ویسه نژاد
“And from there he rode like the wind back to his army, to those who were of the lineage of Viseh.”
#76
یکی انجمن کرد و بگشاد راز
✦
چنین گفت کامد نشیب و فراز
“He convened an assembly and revealed the secret, saying: 'Troublous times of high and low have arrived!”
#77
بدانید کین شیر دل رستمست
✦
جهانگیر و از تخمهٔ نیرمست
“Know ye that this lion-hearted foe is Rostam, conqueror of the world, born of the lineage of Nariman!”
#78
بزرگان و شیران زابلستان
✦
همه نامداران کابلستان
“He is joined by the chieftains and lions of Zabulistan, and all the renowned paladins of Kabulistan.”
#79
چنو کینه‌ور باشد و رهنمای
✦
سواران گیتی ندارند پای
“When one like him stands as vengeful leader and guide, no horsemen in all the world can hold their ground!”
#80
چو گودرز کشواد و چون گیو و طوس
✦
بناکام رزمی بود با فسوس
“With heroes like Goudarz son of Kashvad, Giv, and Tus, any battle will end in bitter loss and regret.'”
#81
ز ترکان گنهکار خواهد همی
✦
دل از بیگناهان بکاهد همی
“He seeks retribution from the guilty Turks, yet his heart aches over the innocent.”
#82
که دانی که ایدر گنهکار نیست
✦
دل شاه ازو پر ز تیمار نیست
“For you know that he who is innocent here—the King's heart is not filled with malice toward him.”
#83
نگه کن که این بوم ویران شود
✦
بکام دلیران ایران شود
“Look how this land is becoming desolate, yielding to the desires of Iran's brave warriors!”
#84
نه پیر و جوان ماند ایدر نه شاه
✦
نه گنج و سپاه و نه تخت و کلاه
“Neither old nor young shall remain here, nor the king, nor treasure, army, throne, or crown.”
#85
همی گفتم این شوم بیداد را
✦
که چندین مدار آتش و باد را
“I kept telling that ill-fated, tyrannical ruler: 'Do not stoke the fire and wind of war so fiercely!'”
#86
که روزی شوی ناگهان سوخته
✦
خرد سوخته چشم دل دوخته
“'For one day you shall suddenly be burned away—your wisdom consumed and the eye of your heart blind.'”
#87
نکرد آن جفاپیشه فرمان من
✦
نه فرمان این نامدار انجمن
“Yet that cruel oppressor heeded neither my counsel nor the advice of this renowned assembly.”
#88
بکند این گرانمایگان را ز جای
✦
نزد با دلیر و خردمند رای
“He uprooted these noble leaders from their lands and took no counsel with the brave and wise.”
#89
ببینی که نه شاه ماند نه تاج
✦
نه پیلان جنگی نه این تخت عاج
“Now you shall see that neither king nor crown will abide, nor war elephants, nor this ivory throne.”
#90
بدین شاددل شاه ایران بود
✦
غم و درد بهر دلیران بود
“At this outcome, the King of Iran shall rejoice, while sorrow and pain remain the lot of our warriors.”
#91
دریغ آن دلیران و چندین سپاه
✦
که با فر و برزند و با تاج و گاه
“Alas for those champions and that vast host, blessed with glory, splendour, crown, and throne!”
#92
بتاراج بینی همه زین سپس
✦
نه برگردد از رزمگه شاد کس
“From this moment on, you will see everything plundered; no one shall return from the battlefield with a joyful heart.”
#93
بکوبند ما را بنعل ستور
✦
شود آب این بخت بیدار شور
“They shall trample us beneath the hooves of their steeds, and the sweet waters of our vigilant fortune shall turn bitter.”
#94
ز هومان دل من بسوزد همی
✦
ز رویین روان برفروزد همی
“My heart burns with grief for Houman, and my soul burns hot with anxiety for Rouyin.”
#95
دل رستم آگنده از کین اوست
✦
بروهاش یکسر پر از چین اوست
“For Rustam's heart is packed with vengeance against him, and his brows are deeply furrowed in wrath.”
#96
پر از غم شوم پیش خاقان چین
✦
بگویم که ما را چه آمد ز کین
“Full of sorrow, I shall go before the Khagan of Chin and relate what plight vengeance has brought upon us.”
#97
بیامد بنزدیک خاقان چو گرد
✦
پر از خون رخ و دیده پر آب زرد
“Swift as the dust he came before the Khagan, his face flushed with anguish and his eyes filled with pale tears.”
#98
سراپردهٔ او پر از ناله دید
✦
ز خون کشته بر زعفران لاله دید
“He found his royal pavilion filled with lamentations, with bloody corpses strewn like red tulips upon saffron ground.”
#99
ز خویشان کاموس چندی سپاه
✦
بنزدیک خاقان شده دادخواه
“A group of warriors from Kamus's kin had presented themselves to the Khagan, crying out for justice.”
#100
همی گفت هر کس که افراسیاب
✦
ازین پس بزرگی نبیند بخواب
“Everyone was saying: 'Henceforth, Afrasiab shall not behold sovereignty even in his dreams!'”
#101
چرا کین پی افگند کش نیست مرد
✦
که آورد سازد بروز نبرد
“'Why did he initiate a blood feud when he lacks the champions to face the battle on the day of strife?'”
#102
سپاه کشانی سوی چین شویم
✦
همه دیده پر آب و باکین شویم
“'We, the Kashani army, shall return to Chin, with eyes filled with tears and hearts heavy with hatred!'”
#103
ز چین و ز بربر سپاه آوریم
✦
که کاموس را کینه‌خواه آوریم
“'From Chin and Barbar we shall assemble a mighty army to seek vengeance for Kamus!'”
#104
ز بزگوش و سگسار و مازندران
✦
کس آریم با گرزهای گران
“'From Bozgush, Sagsar, and Mazandaran we will summon warriors armed with heavy maces,'”
#105
مگر سیستان را پر آتش کنیم
✦
بریشان شب و روز ناخوش کنیم
“'So that we may set Sistan ablaze and turn their days and nights into utter misery!'”
#106
سر رستم زابلی را بدار
✦
برآریم بر سوگ آن نامدار
“'And hang the head of Rustam of Zabul upon the gallows in grief for that illustrious hero!'”
#107
تنش را بسوزیم و خاکسترش
✦
همی برفشانیم گرد درش
“'We shall burn his body and scatter his ashes all around his own threshold!'”
#108
اگر کین همی جوید افراسیاب
✦
نه آرام باید که یابد نه خواب
“'If Afrasiab truly seeks vengeance, he must know neither rest nor sleep!'”
#109
همی از پی دوده هر کس بدرد
✦
ببارید بر ارغوان آب زرد
“In grief for their lineage, each warrior tore his garments, shedding pale tears over cheeks red as Judas-tree blossoms.”
#110
چو بشنید پیران دلش خیره گشت
✦
ز آواز ایشان رخش تیره گشت
“When Piran heard their cries, his heart grew bewildered and his face darkened at their clamour.”
#111
بدل گفت کای زار و بیچارگان
✦
پر از درد و تیمار و غمخوارگان
“He said within his heart: 'O wretched and helpless ones, weighed down by anguish and grieving souls!”
#112
ندارید ازین اگهی بی‌گمان
✦
که ایدر شما را سرآمد زمان
“'You have no true awareness that your destined time has surely come to an end here.”
#113
ز دریا نهنگی بجنگ آمدست
✦
که جوشنش چرم پلنگ آمدست
“'For a crocodile has emerged from the ocean for battle, whose armour is the hide of a leopard!'”
#114
بیامد بخاقان چنین گفت باز
✦
که این رزم کوتاه ما شد دراز
“He then stepped forward to the Khagan and said: 'This brief conflict of ours has turned into a drawn-out war.'”
#115
از این نامداران هر کشوری
✦
ز هر سو که بد نامور مهتری
“'Of all these famous nobles from every realm, wherever a renowned chieftain stood—'”
#116
بیاورد و این رنجها شد به باد
✦
کجا خیزد از کار بیداد داد
“He brought forth foolishness, and all our labors turned to dust; for how can justice ever spring from acts of tyranny?”
#117
سر شاه کشور چنین گشته شد
✦
سیاوش بر دست او کشته شد
“Thus was the mind of the ruler turned astray, and Siyavash was slain by his hand.”
#118
بفرمان گرسیوز کم خرد
✦
سر اژدها را کسی نسپرد
“At the command of the foolish Garsivaz, no one foresaw the deadly head of this dragon.”
#119
سیاوش جهاندار و پرمایه بود
✦
ورا رستم زابلی دایه بود
“Siyavash was a world-conquering and noble prince, and Rustam of Zabulistan had been his foster-father.”
#120
هر آنگه که او جنگ و کین آورد
✦
همی آسمان بر زمین آورد
“Whenever Rustam rides forth in war and vengeance, he shakes the very heavens down upon the earth.”
#121
نه چنگ پلنگ و نه خرطوم پیل
✦
نه کوه بلند و نه دریای نیل
“Neither the leopard's claw nor the elephant's trunk, neither lofty mountains nor the roaring Nile...”
#122
بسندست با او به آوردگاه
✦
چو آورد گیرد به پیش سپاه
“...Can withstand him on the battlefield when he launches an assault before his host.”
#123
یکی رخش دارد بزیر اندرون
✦
که گویی روان شد که بیستون
“Beneath him he rides a steed named Rakhsh, moving as if Mount Bisotun itself were set in swift motion.”
#124
کنون روز خیره نباید شمرد
✦
که دیدند هر کس ازو دستبرد
“Now we must not foolishly waste our days in vain, for everyone has witnessed his mighty prowess in combat.”
#125
یکی آتش آمد ز چرخ کبود
✦
دل ما شد از تف او پر ز دود
“He descended like a blaze from the azure sky, and our hearts are filled with smoke from his fierce fire.”
#126
کنون سر بسر تیزهش بخردان
✦
بخوانید با موبدان و ردان
“Now summon together all the sharp-witted sages, along with the priests and honorable chieftains.”
#127
ببینید تا چارهٔ کار چیست
✦
بدین رزمگه مرد پیکار کیست
“Consider what remedy may be found for this plight, and who among us is truly capable of fighting on this battlefield.”
#128
همی رای باید که گردد درست
✦
از آغاز کینه نبایست جست
“Our counsel must be made sound and firm, for this vengeance ought never to have been sought from the start.”
#129
مگر زین بلا سوی کشور شویم
✦
اگر چند با بخت لاغر شویم
“Perhaps we may escape this calamity and return to our land, even if we go with diminished fortune.”
#130
ز پیران غمی گشت خاقان چین
✦
بسی یاد کرد از جهان آفرین
“The Khagan of China grew sorrowful at Piran's words, and fervently invoked the Creator of the world.”
#131
بدو گفت ما را کنون چیست روی
✦
چو آمد سپاهی چنین جنگجوی
“He said to him: 'What course is left for us now, when such a battle-seeking host has arrived?'”
#132
چنین گفت شنگل که ای سرفراز
✦
چه باید کشیدن سخنها دراز
“Then Shangal spoke up: 'O exalted King, why must we stretch out these words so long?'”
#133
بیاری افراسیاب آمدیم
✦
ز دشت و ز دریای آب آمدیم
“'We came to aid Afrasiab; we crossed plains and vast seas to stand here.'”
#134
بسی باره و هدیه‌ها یافتیم
✦
ز هر کشوری تیز بشتافتیم
“'We received many steeds and lavish gifts, and swiftly hurried here from every land.'”
#135
بیک مرد سگزی که آمد بجنگ
✦
چرا شد چنین بر شما کار تنگ
“'Because of a single man from Sistan coming to fight, why has your plight become so desperate?'”
#136
ز یک مرد ننگست گفتن سخن
✦
دگرگونه‌تر باید افگند بن
“'It is a disgrace to speak so much of a single man; we must lay down a completely different strategy!'”
#137
اگر گرد کاموس را زو زمان
✦
بیامد نباید شدن بدگمان
“'Though Kamus the hero met his fate by his hand, we must not lose heart or fall into despair.'”
#138
سپیده‌دمان گرزها برکشیم
✦
وزین دشت یکسر سراندر کشیم
“'At dawntide we shall draw our heavy maces, and sweep over this entire plain in unison!'”
#139
هوا را چو ابر بهاران کنیم
✦
بریشان یکی تیرباران کنیم
“'We shall make the air dark like spring rain-clouds, showering a heavy deluge of arrows upon them!'”
#140
ز گرد سواران و زخم تبر
✦
نباید که داند کس از پای سر
“'Amid the dust of horsemen and the blows of battle-axes, none shall be able to distinguish head from foot!'”
#141
شما یکسره چشم بر من نهید
✦
چو من برخروشم دمید و دهید
“'Fix all your eyes upon me; when I roar forth, shout aloud and charge with me!'”
#142
همانا که جنگ‌آوران صد هزار
✦
فزون باشد از ما دلیر و سوار
“'Indeed, our courageous warriors and cavalry number more than a hundred thousand!'”
#143
ز یک تن چنین زار و پیچان شدیم
✦
همه پاک ناکشته بیجان شدیم
“'Yet because of a single man we are distraught, acting as if we were dead without even being slain!'”
#144
چنان دان که او ژنده پیلست مست
✦
به آوردگه شیر گیرد بدست
“'Consider him a furious, mad elephant, who seizes lions with his hands upon the field of battle!'”
#145
یکی پیل‌بازی نمایم بدوی
✦
کزان پس نیارد سوی رزم روی
“'Yet I shall show him such a feat against his strength that he will never dare show his face in battle again!'”
#146
چو بشنید لشکر ز شنگل سخن
✦
جوان شد دل مرد گشته کهن
“When the army heard these words from Shangal, even the hearts of old veterans grew young again.”
#147
بدو گفت پیران کانوشه بدی
✦
روان را بپیگار توشه بدی
“Piran said to him: 'May you be immortal! You are the soul's true sustenance in times of combat.'”
#148
همه نامداران و خاقان چین
✦
گرفتند بر شاه هند آفرین
“All the chieftains and the Khagan of China showered praises upon the King of India.”
#149
چو پیران بیامد بپرده سرای
✦
برفتند پرمایه ترکان ز جای
“When Piran returned to his pavilion, the noble Turanian lords rose to meet him.”
#150
چو هومان و نستیهن و بارمان
✦
که با تیغ بودند گر با سنان
“Warriors like Homan, Nastihan, and Barman, standing ready with sword and spear.”
#151
بپرسید هومان ز پیران سخن
✦
که گفتارشان بر چه آمد به بن
“Houman asked Piran about the news, seeking to know how their discourse had concluded.”
#152
همی آشتی را کند پایگاه
✦
و گر کینه جوید سپاه از سپاه
“"Does he seek to lay the foundation for peace, or will host clash with host in vengeance?"”
#153
بهومان بگفت آنچ شنگل بگفت
✦
سپه گشت با او به پیگار جفت
“Piran recounted to Houman what Shangal had blustered, and how the army now prepared for battle alongside him.”
#154
غمی گشت هومان ازان کار سخت
✦
برآشفت با شنگل شوربخت
“Houman grew deeply grieved by this grave turn of events, and raged against ill-fated Shangal.”
#155
به پیران چنین گفت کز آسمان
✦
گذر نیست تا بر چه گردد زمان
“He said to Piran, "None can escape the decree of Heaven, nor foresee how fate will turn."”
#156
بیامد بره پیش کلباد گفت
✦
که شنگل مگر با خرد نیست جفت
“Coming along the path to Kolbad, Houman remarked, "Surely Shangal is utterly devoid of wisdom!"”
#157
بباید شدن یک زمان زین میان
✦
نگه کرد باید بسود و زیان
“"We must withdraw for a moment from this conflict, and carefully ponder profit and loss."”
#158
ببینی کزین لشکر بی‌کران
✦
جهانگیر و با گرزهای گران
“"For soon you shall behold how from this vast host, world-conquerors wielding heavy maces..."”
#159
دو بهره بود زیر خاک اندرون
✦
کفن جوشن و ترگ شسته بخون
“"...Two-thirds shall lie beneath the dark earth, their armor as shrouds, their helmets washed in blood!"”
#160
بدو گفت کلباد ای تیغ زن
✦
چنین تا توان فال بد را مزن
“Kolbad answered him, "O warrior of the sword, refrain from casting such evil omens while you can!"”
#161
تن خویش یکباره غمگین مکن
✦
مگر کز گمان دیگر اید سخن
“"Do not plunge your soul into total despair, for reality may turn out quite different from your fears."”
#162
بنا آمده کار دل را بغم
✦
سزد گر نداری نباشی دژم
“"Before the stroke has fallen, it is right not to burden your heart with sorrow nor be dismayed."”
#163
وزین روی رستم یلان را بخواند
✦
سخنهای بایسته چندی براند
“Meanwhile, Rostam summoned the brave champions, and uttered many fitting and wise words.”
#164
چو طوس و چو گودرز و رهام و گیو
✦
فریبرز و گستهم و خراد نیو
“Champions such as Tous, Goudarz, Rohham, and Giv, Fariborz, Gostaham, and the valiant Khorrad;”
#165
چو گرگین کارآزموده سوار
✦
چو بیژن فروزندهٔ کارزار
“Along with Gurgin, the battle-tested knight, and Bijan, the bright illuminator of combat.”
#166
تهمتن چنین گفت با بخردان
✦
هشیوار و بیدار دل موبدان
“Tahamtan addressed these wise heroes and vigilant, prudent mobads:”
#167
کسی را که یزدان کند نیکبخت
✦
سزاوار باشد ورا تاج و تخت
“"He whom God grants good fortune is truly worthy of crown and throne."”
#168
جهانگیر و پیروز باشد بجنگ
✦
نباید که بیند ز خود زور چنگ
“"Though he conquer the world and triumph in battle, he must never attribute the strength of his grip to himself."”
#169
ز یزدان بود زور ما خود کییم
✦
بدین تیره خاک اندرون بر چییم
“"Our strength comes solely from God—for who are we indeed, standing upon this dark earth?"”
#170
بباید کشیدن گمان از بدی
✦
ره ایزدی باید و بخردی
“"One must cleanse the mind of evil thoughts, following the godly path of wisdom."”
#171
که گیتی نماند همی بر کسی
✦
نباید بدو شاد بودن بسی
“"For this transient world remains faithful to no man, nor should one rejoice excessively in it."”
#172
همی مردمی باید و راستی
✦
ز کژی بود کمی و کاستی
“"Humanity and truthfulness are essential, whereas crookedness yields only loss and decline."”
#173
چو پیران بیامد بر من دمان
✦
سخن گفت با درد دل یک زمان
“"When Piran came before me in haste, he spoke for a while with a grieving heart,"”
#174
که از نیکوی با سیاوش چه کرد
✦
چه آمد برویش ز تیمار و درد
“"Of how he dealt kindly with Siavash, and what grief and anguish fell upon him."”
#175
فرنگیس و کیخسرو از اژدها
✦
بگفتار و کردار او شد رها
“"How Farangis and Kay Khosrow were saved from that dragon through his words and deeds."”
#176
ابا آنک اندر دلم شد درست
✦
که پیران بکین کشته آید نخست
“"Yet despite this, it has become firm in my heart that Piran shall be the first slain in this vengeance,"”
#177
برادرش و فرزند در پیش اوی
✦
بسی با گهر نامور خویش اوی
“"And before him, his brothers, his children, and many noble relatives of high lineage shall perish."”
#178
ابر دست کیخسرو افراسیاب
✦
شود کشته این دیده‌ام من بخواب
“"And Afrasiab shall fall by the hand of Kay Khosrow; all this I have foreseen in a dream."”
#179
گنهکار یک تن نماند بجای
✦
مگر کشته افگنده در زیر پای
“"Not a single guilty soul shall be left standing, save those cast down slain beneath our feet."”
#180
و لیکن نخواهم که بر دست من
✦
شود کشته این پیر با انجمن
“"Yet I do not desire that this old man, along with his company, be slain at my hands."”
#181
که او را به جز راستی پیشه نیست
✦
ز بد بر دلش راه اندیشه نیست
“"For he has ever practiced truthfulness, and evil thoughts find no path into his heart."”
#182
گر ایدونک باز آرد این را که گفت
✦
گناه گذشته بباید نهفت
“"If he indeed fulfills what he has promised, then past transgressions ought to be forgiven."”
#183
گنهکار با خواسته هرچ بود
✦
سپارد بما کین نباید فزود
“"Let the guilty surrender all wealth and tribute to us, so that vengeance may be halted."”
#184
ازین پس مرا جای پیکار نیست
✦
به از راستی در جهان کار نیست
“"Thereafter I shall have no cause to fight, for no endeavor in this world exceeds truthfulness."”
#185
ورین نامداران ابا تخت و پیل
✦
سپاهی بدین سان چو دریای نیل
“"Otherwise, against these famed rulers with their thrones, elephants, and host vast as the River Nile..."”
#186
فرستند نزدیک ما تاج و گنج
✦
ازایشان نباشیم زین پس برنج
“They shall send unto us both crown and treasure, and henceforth we shall suffer no grief or distress at their hands.”
#187
نداریم گیتی بکشتن نگاه
✦
که نیکی‌دهش را جز اینست راه
“We do not wish to keep the world by slaughter, for the path of the Beneficent Creator is far other than this.”
#188
جهان پر ز گنجست و پر تاج و تخت
✦
نباید همه بهر یک نیکبخت
“The world is full of treasure, crowns, and thrones; all of it should not belong to a single fortunate man.”
#189
چو بشنید گودرز بر پای خاست
✦
بدو گفت کای مهتر راد و راست
“When Goudarz heard this, he rose to his feet and said to him: 'O noble, righteous chieftain!'”
#190
ستون سپاهی و زیبای گاه
✦
فروزان بتو شاه و تخت و کلاه
“'Thou art the pillar of the army and the grace of the throne; through thee the King, the crown, and the seat of power shine brightly.'”
#191
سر مایهٔ تست روشن خرد
✦
روانت همی از خرد بر خورد
“'The main source of thy strength is thy luminous wisdom, and thy soul continually reaps the fruits of intellect.'”
#192
ز جنگ آشتی بی‌گمان بهترست
✦
نگه کن که گاوت بچرم اندرست
“'Undoubtedly, peace is better than war; yet look closely, for thy cow is still within its hide.'”
#193
بگویم یکی پیش تو داستان
✦
کنون بشنو از گفتهٔ باستان
“'I shall relate a tale before thee; now listen to the sayings of the ancients:'”
#194
که از راستی جان بدگوهران
✦
گریزد چو گردون ز بار گران
“'That from truth and justice, the souls of the evil-natured flee, even as the sky groans under a heavy burden.'”
#195
گر ایدونک بیچاره پیمان کند
✦
بکوشد که آن راستی بشکند
“'If perchance a villain makes a pledge out of helplessness, he will strive to break that truth at the first opportunity.'”
#196
چو کژ آفریدش جهان آفرین
✦
تو مشنو سخن زو و کژی مبین
“'Since the Creator of the world fashioned him crooked, listen not to his words, nor expect aught but deceit.'”
#197
نخستین که ما رزمگه ساختیم
✦
سخن رفت زین کار و پرداختیم
“'When first we set up the battlefield, we spoke of this matter and engaged in negotiations.'”
#198
ز پیران فرستاده آمد برین
✦
که بیزارم از دشت وز رنج و کین
“'A messenger came from Piran saying: "I am weary of this plain, of toil, and of hatred."'”
#199
که من دیده دارم همیشه پر آب
✦
ز گفتار و کردار افراسیاب
“'[Saying:] "My eyes are ever filled with tears because of the words and deeds of Afrasiab."'”
#200
میان بسته‌ام بندگی شاه را
✦
نخواهم بر و بوم و خرگاه را
“'[And saying:] "I have girded my loins to serve the King; I desire neither land, realm, nor war-tent."'”
#201
بسی پند و اندرز بشنید و گفت
✦
کزین پس نباشد مرا جنگ جفت
“'He heard many counsels and declared: "Henceforth war shall not be my companion."'”
#202
شوم گفت بپسیچم این کار تفت
✦
بخویشان بگویم که ما را چه رفت
“'He said: "I will go and quickly prepare this matter, and tell my kinsmen what has transpired between us."'”
#203
مرا تخت و گنجست و هم چارپای
✦
بدیشان نمایم سزاوار جای
“'[Saying:] "I possess wealth, treasure, and herds; I shall show them a fitting abode."'”
#204
چو گفت این بگفتیم کاری رواست
✦
بتوران ترا تخت و گنج و نواست
“'When he said this, we answered: "This is a proper course; thou hast wealth, power, and comfort in Turan."'”
#205
یکی گوشه‌ای گیر تا نزد شاه
✦
ز تو آشکارا نگردد گناه
“'[We told him:] "Retire to a corner so that before the King, no sin of thine may be made manifest."'”
#206
بگفتیم و پیران برین بازگشت
✦
شب تیره با دیو انباز گشت
“'We agreed, and Piran returned; yet in the dark night, he became a companion to the demon of deceit.'”
#207
هیونی فرستاد نزدیک شاه
✦
که لشکر برآرای کامد سپاه
“'He dispatched a swift courier to his King, saying: "Array thine army, for the Iranian host has arrived!"'”
#208
تو گفتی که با ما نگفت این سخن
✦
نه سر بود ازان کار هرگز نه بن
“'Thou wouldst say he had never spoken those words to us, and that the affair had neither beginning nor end!'”
#209
کنون با تو ای پهلوان سپاه
✦
یکی دیگر افگند بازی براه
“'Now unto thee, O champion of the army, he has brought forth yet another game of deceit.'”
#210
جز از رنگ و چاره نداند همی
✦
ز دانش سخن برفشاند همی
“'He knows naught but trickery and craft, yet he scatters words of wisdom to deceive thee.'”
#211
کنون از کمند تو ترسیده شد
✦
روا بد که ترسیده از دیده شد
“'Now he has grown fearful of thy lasso; it were fitting that this frightened foe disappear from sight!'”
#212
همه پشت ایشان بکاموس بود
✦
سپهبد چو سگسار و فر طوس بود
“'All their reliance was upon Kamus, while our commander had the fury of Segsar and the glory of Tus.'”
#213
سر بخت کاموس برگشته دید
✦
بخم کمند اندرش کشته دید
“'He saw that Kamus's fortune had turned, and saw him slain within the loop of the lasso.'”
#214
در آشتی جوید اکنون همی
✦
نیارد نشستن بهامون همی
“'Now he seeks the path of peace, for he dares not stand his ground upon the open plain.'”
#215
چو داند که تنگ اندر آمد نشیب
✦
بکار آورد بند و رنگ و فریب
“'When he knows that misfortune is closing in upon him, he employs deceit, trickery, and guile.'”
#216
گنهکار با گنج و با خواسته
✦
که گفته‌ست پیش آرم آراسته
“'Who has ever said: "I will bring forward a guilty man adorned with treasure and riches"?'”
#217
ببینی که چون بردمد زخم کوس
✦
بجنگ اندر آید سپهدار طوس
“'Thou shalt see that when the battle-drum sounds, Tus, the leader of the host, will enter the fray!'”
#218
سپهدار پیران بود پیش رو
✦
که جنگ آورد هر زمان نوبنو
“'Commander Piran will be at their vanguard, stirring up fresh combat time after time.'”
#219
دروغست یکسر همه گفت اوی
✦
نشاید جز از اهرمن جفت اوی
“'All his words are entirely lies; none but Ahriman is a fitting mate for him.'”
#220
اگر بشنوی سر بسر پند من
✦
نگه کن ببهرام فرزند من
“'If thou wilt listen to my advice entirely, look upon the fate of my son, Bahram!'”
#221
سپه را بدان چاره اندر نواخت
✦
ز گودرزیان گورستانی بساخت
“With that cunning ruse he comforted his host, and made a graveyard of the house of Goudarz.”
#222
که تا زنده‌ام خون سرشک منست
✦
یکی تیغ هندی پزشک منست
“"So long as I live, my tears are filled with blood; an Indian blade is my sole physician."”
#223
چو بشنید رستم بگودرز گفت
✦
که گفتار تو با خرد باد جفت
“When Rustam heard this, he said to Goudarz, "May thy words ever be paired with wisdom!”
#224
چنین است پیران و این راز نیست
✦
که او نیز با ما هم‌آواز نیست
“Such is Piran, and it is no secret that he too is not aligned with our voice.”
#225
ولیکن من از خوب کردار اوی
✦
نجویم همی کین و پیکار اوی
“Yet because of his noble deeds, I seek no vengeance nor battle against him.”
#226
نگه کن که با شاه ایران چه کرد
✦
ز کار سیاوش چه تیمار خورد
“Consider what he did for the King of Iran, and what grief he bore over Siyavash.”
#227
گر از گفتهٔ خویش باز آید اوی
✦
بنزدیک ما رزم‌ساز آید اوی
“If he recants his words and comes to us intent on war...”
#228
بفتراک بر بسته دارم کمند
✦
کجا ژنده پیل اندرآرم ببند
“I keep my lasso bound to the saddle-straps, with which I can ensnare even a mighty elephant!”
#229
ز نیکو گمان اندر آیم نخست
✦
نباید مگر جنگ و پیکار جست
“First, I shall proceed with good intentions; it may be that war and conflict need not be sought.”
#230
چنو باز گردد ز گفتار خویش
✦
ببیند ز ما درد و تیمار خویش
“But should he turn back from his word, he shall behold his own grief and suffering at our hands."”
#231
برو آفرین کرد گودرز و طوس
✦
که خورشید بر تو ندارد فسوس
“Goudarz and Tus praised him, saying, "Even the sun holds no fault or scorn against thee!”
#232
بنزدیک تو بند و رنگ و دروغ
✦
سخنهای پیران نگیرد فروغ
“In thy presence, the deceit, trickery, and lies of Piran's words shall gain no brilliance."”
#233
مباد این جهان بی سرو تاج شاه
✦
تو بادی همیشه ورا پیش‌گاه
“"May this world never be bereft of the King's crown and head, and mayest thou forever stand at his threshold!"”
#234
چنین گفت رستم که شب تیره گشت
✦
ز گفتارها مغزها خیره گشت
“Thus spoke Rustam: "The night hath grown dark, and our minds are fatigued from all this talk.”
#235
بباشیم و تا نیم‌شب می خوریم
✦
دگر نیمه تیمار لشکر بریم
“Let us remain and drink wine until midnight; for the rest of the night we shall attend to the army."”
#236
ببینیم تا کردگار جهان
✦
برین آشکارا چه دارد نهان
“"Let us see what the Creator of the world has hidden behind this manifest state."”
#237
بایرانیان گفت کامشب بمی
✦
یکی اختری افگنم نیک‌پی
“He said to the Iranians: "Tonight with wine, I shall cast an auspicious omen;”
#238
که فردا من این گرز سام سوار
✦
بگردن بر آرم کنم کارزار
“So that tomorrow I may hoist upon my neck this mace of Sam the Knight and do battle!”
#239
از ایدر بران سان شوم سوی جنگ
✦
بدانگه کجا پای دارد نهنگ
“From here I shall ride forth into battle in such a manner that even the crocodile could scarce stand its ground.”
#240
سراپرده و افسر و گنج و تاج
✦
همان ژنده پیلان و هم تخت عاج
“Pavilions, crowns, treasures, and diadems, along with mighty elephants and ivory thrones—”
#241
بیارم سپارم بایرانیان
✦
اگر تاختن را ببندم میان
“I shall bring them all and surrender them to the Iranians, if I gird my loins for the charge!"”
#242
برآمد خروشی ز جای نشست
✦
ازان نامداران خسروپرست
“A great shout arose from the assembly of those king-worshiping nobles.”
#243
سوی خیمهٔ خویش رفتند باز
✦
بخواب و بآسایش آمد نیاز
“They returned to their own tents, for sleep and rest were now required.”
#244
چو خورشید بنمود رخشان کلاه
✦
چو سیمین سپر دید رخسار ماه
“When the sun displayed its gleaming crown, and the face of the moon seemed like a silver shield,”
#245
بترسید ماه از پی گفت و گوی
✦
بخم اندر امد بپوشید روی
“The moon, fearing the tumult of daytime, bent low and veiled its visage.”
#246
تبیره برآمد ز درگاه طوس
✦
شد از گرد اسپان زمین ابنوس
“The drum resounded from Tus's threshold, and the earth turned black as ebony from the dust of horses.”
#247
زمین نیلگون شد هوا پر ز گرد
✦
بپوشید رستم سلیح نبرد
“The ground turned dark blue, the air filled with dust, and Rustam donned his armor of war.”
#248
سوی میمنه پور کشواد بود
✦
که با جوشن و گرز پولاد بود
“On the right wing was Kashvad's son, clad in coat of mail and wielding a mace of steel.”
#249
فریبرز بر میسره جای جست
✦
دل نامداران ز کینه بشست
“Fariburz took his place upon the left wing, cleansing the hearts of famous warriors of malice.”
#250
بقلب اندرون طوس نوذر بپای
✦
نماند آن زمان بر زمین نیز جای
“In the center stood Tus, son of Novzar; at that moment, not a palm of empty space remained on the field.”
#251
تهمتن بیامد بپیش سپاه
✦
که دارد یلان را ز دشمن نگاه
“The Tahamtan came to the front of the army, to protect the heroes from the enemy.”
#252
و زان روی خاقان بقلب اندرون
✦
ز پیلان زمین چون کهٔ بیستون
“On the other side, the Khaqan stood in the center, and with the elephants, the earth resembled Mount Bisotun.”
#253
ابر میمنه کندر شیر گیر
✦
سواری دلاور بشمشیر و تیر
“On the right wing was Kondor, the lion-capturer, a valiant rider skilled with sword and arrow.”
#254
سوی میسره جنگ دیده گهار
✦
زمین خفته در زیر نعل سوار
“On the left wing stood battle-tested Gohar, while the ground trembled beneath his horse's hooves.”
#255
همی گشت پیران به پیش سپاه
✦
بیامد بر شنگل رزم‌خواه
“Piran paraded before the army, and came before Shangal, eager for combat.”
#256
بدو گفت کای نامبردار هند
✦
ز بربر بفرمان تو تا بسند
“He said to him, 'O renowned hero of Hind, from Barbar unto Sind all are under your command!”
#257
مرا گفته بودی که فردا پگاه
✦
ز هر سو بجنگ اندر آرم سپاه
“'You promised me that tomorrow at dawn, I shall bring forth armies into battle from every side,”
#258
وزان پس ز رستم بجویم نبرد
✦
سرش را ز ابر اندرآرم بگرد
“'And thereafter seek single combat with Rostam, dragging his head down from the clouds into dust.'”
#259
بدو گفت شنگل من از گفت خویش
✦
نگردم نبینی ز من کم و بیش
“Shangal replied to him, 'I shall not turn back from my word; you will see no shortage or failing in me.”
#260
هم اکنون شوم پیش این گرد گیر
✦
تنش را کنم پاره پاره بتیر
“'Even now I shall ride against this formidable warrior and tear his body to pieces with my arrows.”
#261
ازو کین کاموس جویم بجنگ
✦
بایرانیان بر کنم کار تنگ
“'I will avenge Kamus through battle and render life narrow and desperate for the Iranians!'”
#262
هم آنگه سپه را بسه بهر کرد
✦
بزد کوس وز دشت برخاست گرد
“At that very instant he divided the army into three hosts, struck the war-drums, and dust billowed from the plain.”
#263
برفتند یک بهره با ژنده پیل
✦
سپه بود صف برکشیده دو میل
“One division advanced with mighty war-elephants; the ranks of the army extended two miles long.”
#264
سر پیلبان پر ز رنگ و نگار
✦
همه پاک با افسر و گوشوار
“The elephant-riders' heads were bedecked in vivid splendor, each adorned with a crown and earrings.”
#265
بیاراسته گردن از طوق زر
✦
میان بند کرده بزرین کمر
“Their necks were adorned with golden collars, and their waists bound tight with golden girdles.”
#266
فروهشته از پیل دیبای چین
✦
نهاده برو تخت و مهدی زرین
“Rich Chinese silk hung down from the elephants, carrying golden thrones and royal litters.”
#267
برآمد دم نالهٔ کرنای
✦
برفتند پیلان جنگی ز جای
“The wailing roar of long trumpets resounded, and the war-elephants surged forward into motion.”
#268
بیامد سوی میسره سی هزار
✦
سواران گردنکش و نیزه‌دار
“Thirty thousand proud, spear-bearing horsemen marched forth toward the left wing.”
#269
سوی میمنه سی هزار دگر
✦
کمان برگرفتند و چینی سپر
“Toward the right wing another thirty thousand took position, bearing bows and Chinese shields.”
#270
بقلب اندرون پیل و خاقان چین
✦
همی برنوشتند روی زمین
“In the center stood the elephants and the Khaqan of Chin, sweeping across the broad surface of the earth.”
#271
جهان سربسر آهنین گشته بود
✦
بهر جایگه‌بر تلی کشته بود
“The world had turned entirely to iron; in every place raised heaps of slain warriors lay.”
#272
ز بس نالهٔ نای و بانگ درای
✦
زمین و زمان اندر آمد ز جای
“From the clamor of trumpets and the chime of bells, earth and time itself were shaken from their foundations.”
#273
ز جوش سواران و از دار و گیر
✦
هوا دام کرگس بد از پر تیر
“From the tumult of horsemen and the roar of combat, the sky became a trap for vultures with flying arrow-feathers.”
#274
کسی را نماند اندر آن دشت هوش
✦
ز بانگ تبیره شده کره گوش
“No sense remained in anyone upon that battlefield, their ears deafened by the thunderous beat of war-drums.”
#275
همی گشت شنگل میان دو صف
✦
یکی تیغ هندی گرفته بکف
“Shangal paraded between the two battle lines, bearing a steel blade of Hind in his hand.”
#276
یکی چتر هندی بسر بر بپای
✦
بسی مردم از دنبر و مرغ و مای
“An Indian umbrella was held aloft over his head, flanked by many troops from Denbar, Morgh, and May.”
#277
پس پشت و دست چپ و دست راست
✦
بجنگ اندر آورده زان سو که خواست
“Behind him, to his left, and to his right, he arrayed warriors into battle from every direction he desired.”
#278
چو پیران چنان دید دل شاد کرد
✦
ز رزم تهمتن دل آزاد کرد
“When Piran witnessed this spectacle, his heart rejoiced, and he freed his mind from anxiety over Tahamtan's prowess.”
#279
بهومان چنین گفت کامروز کار
✦
بکام دل ما کند روزگار
“He said to Houman, 'Today fortune shall bend affairs to our heart's desire!”
#280
بدین ساز و چندین سوار دلیر
✦
سرافراز هر یک بکردار شیر
“'With such formidable array and so many brave riders, each exalted like a lion!”
#281
تو امروز پیش صف اندر مپای
✦
یک امروز و فردا مکن رزم رای
“'Do not stand at the forefront of the ranks today; for today and tomorrow, refrain from joining battle!”
#282
پس پشت خاقان چینی بایست
✦
که داند ترا با سواری دویست
“'Take your position behind the Khaqan of Chin, for who knows you are there with two hundred horsemen?”
#283
که گر زابلی با درفش سیاه
✦
ببیند ترا کار گردد تباه
“'For if the champion of Zabol with his dark banner catches sight of you, our cause will be ruined.”
#284
ببینیم تا چون بود کار ما
✦
چه بازی کند بخت بیدار ما
“'Let us watch to see how our outcome unfolds, and what play our vigilant destiny will make.'”