#1
وزان جایگه لشکر اندر کشید
✦
بیک منزلی بر یکی شهر دید
“And from that place he led his host away, / Till one march further a great city lay.”
#2
کجا نام آن شهر بیداد بود
✦
دژی بود وز مردم آباد بود
“The fortress city Bidad was its name, / Well-peopled, prosperous, and high in fame.”
#3
همه خوردنیشان ز مردم بدی
✦
پری چهره‌ای هر زمان گم بدی
“Yet human flesh was all their daily food; / Full many a fairy maiden there was wooed.”
#4
بخوان چنان شهریار پلید
✦
نبودی جز از کودک نارسید
“Upon the table of that vile king served, / Naught but young children, guiltless and uncurved.”
#5
پرستندگانی که نیکو بدی
✦
به دیدار و بالا بی‌آهو بدی
“And maidens fair of form and beautiful, / Without a flaw, of graceful beauty full.”
#6
از آن ساختندی بخوان بر خورش
✦
بدین گونه بد شاه را پرورش
“From these they prepared the royal dish; / Thus did the tyrant feed his ghastly wish.”
#7
تهمتن بفرمود تا سه هزار
✦
زرهدار برگستوان‌ور سوار
“Tahmattan commanded three thousand strong, / Armored horsemen to march along.”
#8
بدان دژ فرستاد با گستهم
✦
دو گرد خردمند با اوبهم
“He sent them to that fort with Gustaham, / Two wise and valiant heroes, free of qualm.”
#9
مرین مرد را نام کافور بود
✦
که او را بران شهر منشور بود
“The ruler of that city was Kafur, / Who held the charter of that realm obscure.”
#10
بپوشید کافور خفتان جنگ
✦
همه شهر با او بسان پلنگ
“Kafur put on his battle mail in haste, / All city dwellers, leopard-like, he faced.”
#11
کمندافگن و زورمندان بدند
✦
برزم اندرون پیل دندان بدند
“Lassoers strong and mighty men of war, / Like fierce war-elephants in strife they bore.”
#12
چو گستهم گیتی بران گونه دید
✦
جهان در کف دیو وارونه دید
“When Gustaham beheld the world in plight, / Trapped in the grasp of demonic night,”
#13
بفرمود تا تیر باران کنند
✦
بریشان کمین سواران کنند
“He bade his men shower arrows thick and fast, / And lay an ambush for the foe to cast.”
#14
چنین گفت کافور با سرکشان
✦
که سندان نگیرد ز پیکان نشان
“Said Kafur to his chieftains proud and bold: / 'No anvil fears an arrow, we are told!”
#15
همه تیغ و گرز و کمند آورید
✦
سر سرکشان را ببند آورید
“Bring forth the mace, the lasso, and the sword, / And bind the chiefs of Iran's army horde!'”
#16
زمانی بران سان برآویختند
✦
که آتش ز دریا برانگیختند
“They grappled for a space in furious fight, / As though the sea produced a flame of light.”
#17
فراوان ز ایرانیان کشته شد
✦
بسر بر سپهر بلا گشته شد
“Full many an Iranian was slain that day, / As fortune’s wheel turned dark upon the fray.”
#18
ببیژن چنین گفت گستهم زود
✦
که لختی عنانت بباید بسود
“To Bizhan Gustaham spoke out in haste: / 'Restrain thy rein, no moment is to waste!”
#19
برستم بگویی که چندین مایست
✦
بجنبان عنان با سواری دویست
“Go tell Rostam to tarry here no more, / But bring two hundred horsemen to this shore!'”
#20
بشد بیژن گیو برسان باد
✦
سخن بر تهمتن همه کرد یاد
“Bizhan, son of Gev, flew fast as wind, / And told Tahmattan all that was designed.”
#21
گران کرد رستم زمانی رکیب
✦
ندانست لشکر فراز از نشیب
“Rostam pressed stirrups, swift his charge began, / High from low no soldier could discern.”
#22
بدانسان بیامد بدان رزمگاه
✦
که باد اندر آید ز کوه سیاه
“He surged into the thick of battle’s fray, / Like tempest howling down the dark mountain array.”
#23
فراوان ز ایرانیان کشته دید
✦
بسی سرکش از جنگ برگشته دید
“He saw full many slain of Iranian grace, / And valiant chieftains turning from their place.”
#24
بکافور گفت ای سگ بدگهر
✦
کنون رزم و رنج تو آمد بسر
“To Kafur shouted he: 'O vile-born hound! / Thy toil and fighting now their end have found!'”
#25
یکی حمله آورد کافور سخت
✦
بران بارور خسروانی درخت
“Then Kafur launched a fierce attack straightway, / Against that royal tree of ancient sway.”
#26
بینداخت تیغی بکردار تیر
✦
که آید مگر بر یل شیرگیر
“He hurled a sword as swift as arrow's flight, / Hoping to strike the lion-capturing knight.”
#27
بپیش اندر آورد رستم سپر
✦
فرو ماند کافور پرخاشخر
“Rostam thrust shield in front to block the blow, / And left Kafur amazed in utter woe.”
#28
کمندی بینداخت بر سوی طوس
✦
بسی کرد رستم برو بر فسوس
“Kafur then cast a lasso toward Tous's side, / While Rostam mocked his vanity and pride.”
#29
عمودی بزد بر سرش پور زال
✦
که بر هم شکستش سر و ترگ و یال
“Zal’s son brought down his mace upon his head, / And crushed his skull and helmet, leaving him dead.”
#30
چنین تا در دژ یکی حمله برد
✦
بزرگان نبودند پیدا ز خرد
“He charged right to the fortress gate with might; / The hostile nobles lost their wits in fright.”
#31
در دژ ببستند وز باره تیز
✦
برآمد خروشیدن رستخیز
“They barred the citadel and locked it fast, / While from the ramparts cries of doom were cast.”
#32
بگفتند کای مرد بازور و هوش
✦
برین گونه با ما بکینه مکوش
“They shouted: 'Man of strength and wisdom high! / Seek not our blood with such relentless cry!”
#33
پدر نام تو چون بزادی چه کرد
✦
کمندافگنی گر سپهر نبرد
“What named thee thy father when thou wert born? / Thou knight of battle who hast headers torn!”
#34
دریغست رنج اندرین شارستان
✦
که داننده خواند ورا کارستان
“It is a pity to waste effort on this citadel, / Which men of wisdom call a master-work as well.”
#35
چو تور فریدون ز ایران براند
✦
ز هر گونه دانندگان را بخواند
“When Tur, Fereydun’s son, left Iran's land, / He called all sages by his royal hand.”
#36
یکی باره افگند زین گونه پی
✦
ز سنگ و ز خشت و ز چوب و ز نی
“He laid the foundations of this rampart high, / Of stone, brick, wood, and reed beneath the sky.”
#37
برآورد ازینسان بافسون و رنج
✦
بپالود رنج و تهی کرد گنج
“With spells and toil he reared it up in place, / Emptied his treasures, suffering much disgrace.”
#38
بسی رنج بردند مردان مرد
✦
کزین بارهٔ دژ برآرند گرد
“Full many mighty men have striven in vain, / To raze this fortress to the dust again.”
#39
نبدکس بدین شارستان پادشا
✦
بدین رنج بردن نیارد بها
“No ruler ever could this realm subdue, / Nor pay the price to breach its walls in view.”
#40
سلیحست و ایدر بسی خوردنی
✦
بزیر اندرون راه آوردنی
“Here lies vast store of food and armor bright, / And hidden tunnels beneath out of sight.”
#41
اگر سالیان رنج و رزم آوری
✦
نباشد بدستت جز از داوری
“Though years thou shouldst lay siege and battle wage, / Naught but frustration shalt thou win this age.”
#42
نیاید برین باره بر منجنیق
✦
از افسون سلم و دم جاثلیق
“Nor mangonel nor siege-engine can break / Salm’s ancient charms and Catholicos’s sake!'”
#43
چو بشنید رستم پر اندیشه شد
✦
دلش از غم و درد چون بیشه شد
“When Rostam heard these words, thoughtful he grew; / His heart was filled with grief and deep anxiety through.”
#44
یکی رزم کرد آن نه بر آرزوی
✦
سپاه اندر آورد بر چار سوی
“He planned a fight not matched to their desire, / And brought his forces round four sides in ire.”
#45
بیک روی گودرز و یک روی طوس
✦
پس پشت او پیل با بوق و کوس
“On one side Goudarz stood, on one side Tous, / Behind them elephants with horn and drum in use.”
#46
بیک روی بر لشکر زابلی
✦
زرهدار با خنجر کابلی
“On one side, arrayed against the Zabolian army, stood armored warriors holding sharp Kabuli daggers.”
#47
چو آن دید رستم کمان برگرفت
✦
همه دژ بدو ماند اندر شگفت
“When Rostam saw this, he took up his bow; the entire fortress was left in utter astonishment of him.”
#48
هر آنکس که از باره سر بر زدی
✦
زمانه سرش را بهم در زدی
“Whoever dared to raise his head above the fortress wall, fate instantly dashed his head to pieces.”
#49
ابا مغز پیکان همی راز گفت
✦
ببدسازگاری همی گشت جفت
“The arrowhead whispered deadly secrets to their brains, binding itself with malevolent ill fortune.”
#50
بن باره زان پس بکندن گرفت
✦
ز دیوار مردم فگندن گرفت
“He then began to undermine the base of the fortress wall, casting the defenders headlong from the ramparts.”
#51
ستونها نهادند زیر اندرش
✦
بیالود نفط سیاه از برش
“They placed wooden pillars underneath the wall and smeared black naphtha over them.”
#52
چو نیمی ز دیوار دژکنده شد
✦
بچوب اندر آتش پراگنده شد
“When half of the fortress wall was undermined, fire was set ablaze amidst the timber supports.”
#53
فرود آمد آن بارهٔ تور گرد
✦
ز هر سو سپاه اندر آمد بگرد
“Down collapsed that fortress of the Turanian champions, and from every side the army closed in around it.”
#54
بفرمود رستم که جنگ آورید
✦
کمانها و تیر خدنگ آورید
“Rostam gave the order to wage battle, commanding them to bring forth bows and poplar arrows.”
#55
گوان از پی گنج و فرزند خویش
✦
همان از پی بوم و پیوند خویش
“The champions fought to protect their treasure and children, as well as their motherland and kin.”
#56
همه سر بدادند یکسر بباد
✦
گرامی‌تر آنکو ز مادر نزاد
“They all gave up their lives to the wind; happier was he who was never born of a mother.”
#57
دلیران پیاده شدند آن زمان
✦
سپرهای چینی و تیر و کمان
“The brave warriors dismounted at that moment, taking up Chinese shields, arrows, and bows.”
#58
برفتند با نیزه‌داران بهم
✦
بپیش اندرون بیژن و گستهم
“They advanced side by side with the spearmen, with Bizhan and Gostahm charging at the forefront.”
#59
دم آتش تیز و باران تیر
✦
هزیمت بود زان سپس ناگزیر
“Amidst the breath of fierce fire and a downfall of arrows, flight became inescapable thereafter.”
#60
چو از بارهٔ دژ بیرون شدند
✦
گریزان گریزان بهامون شدند
“When they broke out from the fortress ramparts, they fled in utter rout onto the open plain.”
#61
در دژ ببست آن زمان جنگجوی
✦
بتاراج و کشتن نهادند روی
“The warrior warlord then sealed the fortress gates, and the soldiers turned to plundering and slaying.”
#62
چه مایه بکشتند و چندی اسیر
✦
ببردند زان شهر برنا و پیر
“How many they killed, and how many captives—young and old—they led away from that city!”
#63
بسی سیم و زر و گرانمایه چیز
✦
ستور و غلام و پرستار نیز
“Abundant silver, gold, and priceless treasures, as well as livestock, slaves, and handmaidens.”
#64
تهمتن بیامد سر و تن بشست
✦
بپیش جهانداور آمد نخست
“Tahamtan came forward, washed his head and body, and first presented himself before the Sovereign of the World.”
#65
ز پیروز گشتن نیایش گرفت
✦
جهان آفرین را ستایش گرفت
“He offered up prayers for achieving victory and began praising the Creator of the World.”
#66
بایرانیان گفت با کردگار
✦
بیامد نهانی هم از آشکار
“He said to the Iranians: "The divine assistance of the Creator has come to us both secretly and openly."”
#67
بپیروزی اندر نیایش کنید
✦
جهان آفرین را ستایش کنید
“"Offer up prayers in this moment of victory, and sing praises to the Creator of the Universe!"”
#68
بزرگان بپیش جهان‌آفرین
✦
نیایش گرفتند سر بر زمین
“The nobles bowed down before the World-Creator, placing their foreheads upon the earth in devotion.”
#69
چو از پاک یزدان بپرداختند
✦
بران نامدار آفرین ساختند
“When they finished their worship of Pure God, they showered praises upon that famed hero.”
#70
که هر کس که چون تو نباشد بجنگ
✦
نشستن به آید بنام و بننگ
“Saying: "For anyone who is not like you in battle, sitting idle is far better, whether for fame or shame."”
#71
تن پیل داری و چنگال شیر
✦
زمانی نباشی ز پیگار سیر
“"You possess the body of an elephant and the claws of a lion, and you are never sated with combat!"”
#72
تهمتن چنین گفت کین زور و فر
✦
یکی خلعتی باشد از دادگر
“Tahamtan replied: "This strength and divine glory are but a robe of honor bestowed by the Just Lord."”
#73
شما سربسر بهره دارید زین
✦
نه جای گله‌ست از جهان آفرین
“"All of you share a portion in this grace; there is no place to complain against the Creator of the World."”
#74
بفرمود تا گیو با ده هزار
✦
سپردار و بر گستوان ور سوار
“He commanded Gev to take ten thousand shield-bearing and barded armored horsemen,”
#75
شود تازیان تا بمرز ختن
✦
نماند که ترکان شوند انجمن
“And ride swiftly unto the border of Khotan, preventing the Turks from rallying their forces.”
#76
چو بنمود شب جعد زلف سیاه
✦
از اندیشه خمیده شد پشت ماه
“When night displayed its curling black locks, the spine of the moon bent low under contemplation.”
#77
بشد گیو با آن سواران جنگ
✦
سه روز اندر آن تاختن شد درنگ
“Gev set forth with those battle-ready horsemen, and that hard riding raid lasted for three full days.”
#78
بدانگه که خورشید بنمود تاج
✦
برآمد نشست از بر تخت عاج
“When the sun displayed its golden crown, the hero ascended and sat upon the ivory throne.”
#79
ز توران بیامد سرافراز گیو
✦
گرفته بسی نامداران نیو
“From Turan returned the exalted Gev, having captured many famous and heroic champions.”
#80
بسی خوب چهره بتان طراز
✦
گرانمایه اسپان و هرگونه ساز
“Bringing fair-faced beauties of Taraz, precious horses, and arms of every kind.”
#81
فرستاد یک نیمه نزدیک شاه
✦
ببخشید دیگر همه بر سپاه
“He sent one half of the spoils to the King, and distributed the rest among the entire army.”
#82
وزان پس چو گودرز و چون طوس و گیو
✦
چو گستهم و شیدوش و فرهاد نیو
“Thereupon, chieftains like Goudarz, Tous, and Gev, alongside Gostahm, Sheydoush, and the brave Farhad,”
#83
ابا بیژن گیو برخاستند
✦
یکی آفرین نو آراستند
“Together with Bizhan, son of Gev, arose and offered a fresh eulogy of praise.”
#84
چنین گفت گودرز کای سرفراز
✦
جهان را بمهر تو آمد نیاز
“Goudarz spoke thus: 'O exalted hero! The world stands in dire need of your affection and grace.”
#85
نشاید که بی‌آفرین تو لب
✦
گشاییم زین پس بروز و بشب
“It is not meet that we open our lips night or day henceforth without singing your praise.”
#86
کسی کو بپیمود روی زمین
✦
جهان دید و آرام و پرخاش و کین
“He who has traversed the face of the earth, witnessing its times of peace, conflict, and rancor,”
#87
بیک جای زین بیش لشکر ندید
✦
نه از موبد سالخورده شنید
“Has never seen an army larger than this in one place, nor heard of such from any aged priest.”
#88
ز شاهان و پیلان وز تخت عاج
✦
ز مردان و اسپان و از گنج و تاج
“So vast array of monarchs, elephants, ivory thrones, warriors, steeds, treasures, and crowns!”
#89
ستاره بدان دشت نظاره بود
✦
که این لشکر از جنگ بیچاره بود
“The stars stood watch over that plain, beholding how this vast army was rendered helpless in battle.”
#90
بگشتیم گرد دژ ایدر بسی
✦
ندیدیم جز کینه درمان کسی
“We wandered long around this fortress, finding no cure for their enmity in anyone,”
#91
که خوشان بدیم از دم اژدها
✦
کمان تو آورد ما را رها
“For we were choking in the dragon's breath, until thy bow delivered us from peril.'”
#92
توی پشت ایران و تاج سران
✦
سزاوار و ما پیش تو کهتران
“'Thou art the mainstay of Iran and the crown upon leaders' heads; worthy art thou, and we are but lesser servants before thee.”
#93
مکافات این کار یزدان کند
✦
که چهر تو همواره خندان کند
“May God Himself reward this grand deed of thine, and keep thy countenance forever smiling.”
#94
بپاداش تو نیست‌مان دسترس
✦
زبانها پر از آفرینست و بس
“We possess no power to give thee a fitting reward; our tongues are merely filled with thy praises.'”
#95
بزرگیت هر روز بافزون ترست
✦
هنرمند رخش تو صد لشکرست
“'Thy greatness grows grander day by day; the skill of thy steed Rakhsh is worth a hundred hosts.'”
#96
تهمتن بریشان گرفت آفرین
✦
که آباد بادا بگردان زمین
“Tahamtan commended them warmly in return, saying: 'May the land of champions remain prosperous and flourishing!”
#97
مرا پشت ز آزادگانست راست
✦
دل روشنم بر زبانم گواست
“My back is supported upright by noble men; my radiant heart bears witness to what my tongue declares.'”
#98
ازان پس چنین گفت کایدر سه روز
✦
بباشیم شادان و گیتی فروز
“Thereafter he said: 'For three days here let us remain in joy, brightening the world with delight.”
#99
چهارم سوی جنگ افراسیاب
✦
برانیم و آتش برآریم ز آب
“On the fourth, we shall ride forth to battle Afrasiab, and draw forth fire out of the very waters!'”
#100
همه نامداران بگفتار اوی
✦
ببزم و بخوردن نهادند روی
“All the renowned nobles, hearing his words, turned their hearts to feasting and banquet.”
#101
پس آگاهی آمد بافراسیاب
✦
که بوم و بر از دشمنان شد خراب
“Then word reached Afrasiab that his realm and land were ruined by his foes.”
#102
دلش زان سخن پر ز تیمار شد
✦
همه پرنیان بر تنش خار شد
“His heart grew heavy with grief at the news, and fine silk upon his body turned to piercing thorns.”
#103
بدل گفت پیگار او کار کیست
✦
سپاهست بسیار و سالار کیست
“He said to himself: 'Whose doing is this battle? A vast army is there, but who is their commander?”
#104
گر آنست رستم که من دیده‌ام
✦
بسی از نبردش بپیچیده‌ام
“If it be Rostam whom I have seen before, I have suffered often enough from his heavy hand!'”
#105
بپیچید وزان پس به آواز گفت
✦
که با او که داریم در جنگ جفت
“He trembled with fear, and then cried out aloud: 'Whom do we possess who can match him in combat?”
#106
یکی کودکی بود برسان نی
✦
که من لشکر آورده بودم بری
“He was but a young child, slender as a reed, when I brought a whole army against Ray;”
#107
بیامد تن من ز زین برگرفت
✦
فرو ماند زان لشکر اندر شگفت
“Yet he came and lifted my body straight out of the saddle, leaving my entire army struck with astonishment!'”
#108
چنین گفت لشکر بافراسیاب
✦
که چندین سر از جنگ رستم متاب
“The army chiefs then spoke to Afrasiab: 'Turn not thy head away from fighting Rostam so easily!”
#109
تو آنی که از خاک آوردگاه
✦
همی جوش خون اندر آری بماه
“Thou art he who can make blood boil up to the moon from the very dust of the battlefield!”
#110
سلیحست بسیار و مردان جنگ
✦
دل از کار رستم چه داری بتنگ
“Abundant weapons are at hand and mighty men of war; why art thou so downcast over Rostam's deeds?”
#111
ز جنگ سواری تو غمگین مشو
✦
نگه کن بدین نامداران نو
“Grieve not over the assault of a single knight; look upon these brave new heroes in thy ranks!”
#112
چنان دان که او یکسر از آهنست
✦
اگر چه دلیرست هم یک تنست
“Know that even if he were forged entirely of iron and ever so brave, he remains but a single man.”
#113
سخنهای کوتاه زو شد دراز
✦
تو با لشکری چارهٔ او را بساز
“Thy words have grown too long about him; with a whole host behind thee, devise a remedy for him!”
#114
سرش را ز زین اندرآور بخاک
✦
ازان پس خود از شاه ایران چه باک
“Drag his head down from the saddle to the dust; after that, what fear could there be of the King of Iran?”
#115
نه کیخسرو آباد ماند نه گنج
✦
نداریم این زرم کردن برنج
“Neither Kay Khosrow nor his treasure shall remain safe, and we shall count this war's toil as nothing.'”
#116
نگه کن بدین لشکر نامدار
✦
جوانان و شایستهٔ کارزار
“Look upon this renowned army, these youths so worthy of battle.”
#117
ز بهر بر و بوم و پیوند خویش
✦
زن و کودک خرد و فرزند خویش
“For the sake of our homeland and lineage, our wives, young children, and offspring,”
#118
همه سر به سر تن به کشتن دهیم
✦
به آید که گیتی به دشمن دهیم
“We shall all to a man sacrifice our lives, for that is far better than surrendering the world to the foe.”
#119
چو بشنید افراسیاب این سخن
✦
فراموش کرد آن نبرد کهن
“When Afrasiyab heard these words, he cast from his memory that ancient grudge and combat.”
#120
بفرمود تا لشکر آراستند
✦
بکین نو از جای برخاستند
“He commanded the army to be arrayed, and they arose with renewed vengeance.”
#121
ز بوم نیاکان وز شهر خویش
✦
یکی تازه اندیشه بنهاد پیش
“For the land of his ancestors and his own city, he set forth a new design.”
#122
چنین داد پاسخ که من ساز جنگ
✦
بپیش آورم چون شود کار تنگ
“Thus he answered: "I shall prepare for battle myself when the pressure of war weighs heavily upon us.”
#123
نمانم که کیخسرو از تخت خویش
✦
شود شاد و پدرام از بخت خویش
“I shall not permit Kay Khosrow upon his throne to be joyful or pleased with his fortune.”
#124
سر زابلی را بروز نبرد
✦
بچنگ دراز اندر آرم بگرد
“On the day of battle, with my long reach, I shall bring low in dust the head of the Zabolite champion."”
#125
برو سرکشان آفرین خواندند
✦
سرافراز را سوی کین خواندند
“The proud chieftains offered praise unto him and urged the exalted king on toward vengeance.”
#126
که جاوید و شادان و پیروز باش
✦
بکام دلت گیتی افروز باش
“Saying, "May you live eternal, joyful, and victorious, illuminating the world to your heart's desire!"”
#127
سپهبد بسی جنگها دیده بود
✦
ز هر کار بهری پسندیده بود
“The commander had witnessed many battles, having extracted wisdom and standard from every endeavor.”
#128
یکی شیر دل بود فرغار نام
✦
قفس دیده و جسته چندی ز دام
“There was a lion-hearted warrior named Farghar, experienced with traps and having escaped many a snare.”
#129
ز بیگانگان جای پردخته کرد
✦
بفرغار گفت ای گرانمایه مرد
“Afrasiyab cleared the place of strangers, and said to Farghar: "O noble man!”
#130
هم اکنون برو سوی ایران سپاه
✦
نگه کن بدین رستم رزمخواه
“Go forthwith toward the host of Iran, and observe this battle-seeking Rostam.”
#131
سواران نگه کن که چنداند و چون
✦
که دارد برین بوم و بر رهنمون
“Scrutinize the cavalry—how many they are, how they are conditioned, and who leads them in this land.”
#132
وزان نامداران پرخاشجوی
✦
ببینی که چنداند و بر چند روی
“And observe those pugnacious chieftains—how numerous they are and in what formations they stand.”
#133
ز گردان پهلومنش چند مرد
✦
که آورد سازند روز نبرد
“See how many heroes of chivalrous valor stand ready to engage on the day of battle."”
#134
چو فرغار برگشت و آمد براه
✦
بکارآگهی شد بایران سپاه
“When Farghar turned back and set off on his way, he departed as a spy toward the army of Iran.”
#135
غمی شد دل مرد پرخاشجوی
✦
ببیگانگان ایچ ننمود روی
“The battle-seeking king grew sorrowful in heart, and hid his face from all strangers.”
#136
فرستاد و فرزند را پیش خواند
✦
بسی راز بایسته با او براند
“He sent for his son, summoned him close, and disclosed many vital secrets to him.”
#137
بشیده چنین گفت کای پر خرد
✦
سپاه تو تیمار تو کی خورد
“To Shideh he spoke thus: "O wise one! When will your army ever truly share your anxieties?”
#138
چنین دان که این لشکر بی‌شمار
✦
که آمد برین مرز چندین هزار
“Know this: that this innumerable army, which has advanced upon these borders by the tens of thousands,”
#139
سپهدارشان رستم شیر دل
✦
که از خاک سازد بشمشیر گل
“Their commander is the lion-hearted Rostam, who makes mud of dust with his sword soaked in blood.”
#140
گو پیلتن رستم زابلیست
✦
ببین تا مر او را هم‌آورد کیست
“It is Rostam of Zabol, with his elephant-like stature; consider who could ever be his equal in combat!”
#141
چو کاموس و منشور و خاقان چین
✦
گهار و چو گرگوی با آفرین
“Champions such as Kamus, Mansur, the Khaqan of Chin, Gohar, and praised Gorguy—”
#142
دگر کندر و شنگل آن شاه هند
✦
سپاهی ز کشمیر تا پیش سند
“As well as Kondor and Shangal, the King of Hind, leading armies stretching from Kashmir to the banks of the Indus—”
#143
بنیروی این رستم شیر گیر
✦
بکشتند و بردند چندی اسیر
“By the mighty force of this lion-capturing Rostam, they were slain or led away captive!”
#144
چهل روز بالشکر آویز بود
✦
گهی رزم و گه بزم و پرهیز بود
“For forty days he was engaged with that host, alternating between battle, feasting, and caution.”
#145
سرانجام رستم بخم کمند
✦
ز پیل اندر آورد و بنهاد بند
“In the end, with the loop of his lasso, Rostam dragged the king down from his elephant and bound him fast.”
#146
سواران و گردان هر کشوری
✦
ز هر سو که بود از بزرگان سری
“Horsemen and warriors of every land, every notable leader from every realm,”
#147
بدین کشور آمد کنون زین نشان
✦
همان تاجداران گردنکشان
“Have now come into this realm in this manner, along with proud, crowned sovereigns.”
#148
من ایدر نمانم بسی گنج و تخت
✦
که گردان شدست اندرین کار سخت
“I shall not leave here much treasure or throne, for fortune has turned harsh in this ordeal.”
#149
کنون هرچ گنجست و تاج و کمر
✦
همان طوق زرین و زرین سپر
“Now whatever treasure, crown, belt, golden collar, and golden shield remain—”
#150
فرستم همه سوی الماس رود
✦
نه هنگام جامست و بزم و سرود
“I shall dispatch it all toward the River of Diamond; this is no time for wine-cups, feasting, and song."”
#151
هراسانم از رستم تیز چنگ
✦
تن‌آسان که باشد بکام نهنگ
“I am fearful of sharp-clawed Rostam; who can rest easy while in the jaws of a dragon?”
#152
بمردم نماند بروز نبرد
✦
نپیچد ز بیم و ننالد ز درد
“On the day of battle, he resembles no ordinary mortal; he twists not from fear, nor groans from pain.”
#153
ز نیزه نترسد نه از تیغ تیز
✦
برآرد ز دشمن همی رستخیز
“He fears neither spear nor sharp blade, and raises a resurrection of doom against the enemy.”
#154
تو گفتی که از روی وز آهنست
✦
نه مردم نژادست کهرمنست
“You would say he is forged of brass and iron—no human born, but Kahraman the demon!”
#155
سلیحست چندان برو روز کین
✦
که سیر آمد از بار پشت زمین
“On the day of vengeance he bears such heavy armor that the back of the earth groans under its weight.”
#156
زره دارد و جوشن و خود و گبر
✦
بغرد بکردار غرنده ابر
“He dons coat of mail, cuiras, helmet, and breastplate, roaring like a thunderous cloud.”
#157
نه برتابد آهنگ او ژنده پیل
✦
نه کشتی سلیحش بدریای نیل
“A furious elephant cannot withstand his assault, nor could a ship carry his armor across the River Nile.”
#158
یکی کوه زیرش بکردار باد
✦
تو گویی که از باد دارد نژاد
“Beneath him is a steed like a swift mountain of wind; you would say its lineage is born of the breeze.”
#159
تگ آهوان دارد و هول شیر
✦
بناورد با شیر گردد دلیر
“It possesses the bound of a gazelle and the terror of a lion; in combat, it attacks lions with fearless heart.”
#160
سخن گوید ار زو کنی خواستار
✦
بدریا چو کشتی بود روز کار
“If you speak to it, it seems to respond; on the day of battle, it glides through action like a ship upon the sea.”
#161
مرا با دلاور بسی بود جنگ
✦
یکی جوشنستش ز چرم پلنگ
“I have fought many a time with this brave warrior; he wears a coat of mail fashioned from leopard hide.”
#162
سلیحم نیامد برو کارگر
✦
بسی آزمودم بگرز و تبر
“My weapons took no effect upon him, though I tested him often with mace and battle-axe.”
#163
کنون آزمون را یکی کارزار
✦
بسازیم تا چون بود روزگار
“Now, for a final trial, let us prepare a battle to see what destiny holds.”
#164
گر ایدونک یزدان بود یارمند
✦
بگردد ببایست چرخ بلند
“If God assists us, the lofty heaven will turn according to our desires.”
#165
نه آن شهر ماند نه آن شهریار
✦
سرآید مگر بر من این کارزار
“Neither that realm nor its king shall endure—unless this very battle brings my own demise.”
#166
اگر دست رستم بود روز جنگ
✦
نسازم من ایدر فراوان درنگ
“If Rostam gains the upper hand on the day of battle, I shall not delay long here.”
#167
شوم تا بدان روی دریای چین
✦
بدو مانم این مرز توران زمین
“I shall retreat beyond the Sea of China, leaving to him this realm of Turan.”
#168
بدو شیده گفت ای خردمند شاه
✦
انوشه بدی تا بود تاج و گاه
“Shideh said to him: 'O wise King! May you live immortally as long as crown and throne endure!'”
#169
ترا فر و برزست و مردانگی
✦
نژاد و دل و بخت و فرزانگی
“Yours are divine glory, majesty, and valor; noble lineage, courage, good fortune, and wisdom.”
#170
نباید ترا پند آموزگار
✦
نگه کن بدین گردش روزگار
“You stand in no need of a counselor's advice; yet behold the turns of fortune.”
#171
چو پیران و هومان و فرشیدورد
✦
چو کلباد و نستیهن شیر مرد
“Look at Piran, Homan, and Farshidvard, as well as Kulbad and Nastihan, those lion-like heroes—”
#172
شکسته سلیح و گسسته دلند
✦
ز بیم و ز غم هر زمان بگسلند
“Their weapons are shattered, their hearts broken; with every passing moment they wither from fear and grief.”
#173
تو بر باد این جنگ کشتی مران
✦
چو دانی که آمد سپاهی گران
“Do not steer the vessel of battle into a gale when you know a mighty army has arrived.”
#174
ز شاهان گیتی گزیده توی
✦
جهانجوی و هم کار دیده توی
“You are the chosen among the kings of the world—a seeker of realms, seasoned and battle-tested.”
#175
بجان و سر شاه توران سپاه
✦
بخورشید و ماه و بتخت و کلاه
“By the life and head of the King of Turan's host, by sun and moon, and by throne and crown—”
#176
که از کار کاموس و خاقان چین
✦
دلم گشت پر خون و سر پر ز کین
“My heart is filled with blood and my head with vengeance at the fate of Kamus and the Khaqan of Chin!”
#177
شب تیره بگشاد چشم دژم
✦
ز غم پشت ماه اندر آمد بخم
“The dark night opened its gloomy eyes; under grief's weight, the back of the crescent moon bent low.”
#178
جهان گشت برسان مشک سیاه
✦
چو فرغار برگشت ز ایران سپاه
“The world grew black as musk when Farghar returned from the Iranian army.”
#179
بیامد بنزدیک افراسیاب
✦
شب تیره هنگام آرام و خواب
“He came before Afrasiyab in the gloom of night, at the hour of rest and sleep.”
#180
چنین گفت کز بارگاه بلند
✦
برفتم سوی رستم دیوبند
“He spoke thus: 'From your high court I departed toward Rostam, the conqueror of demons.'”
#181
سراپردهٔ سبز دیدم بزرگ
✦
سپاهی بکردار درنده گرگ
“I beheld a vast, green royal pavilion, and an army fierce as ravening wolves.”
#182
یکی اژدهافش درفشی بپای
✦
نه آرام دارد تو گفتی نه جای
“A dragon-adorned banner stood erect; it seemed to rest not, nor remain fixed in one place.”
#183
فروهشته بر کوههٔ زین لگام
✦
بفتراک بر حلقهٔ خم خام
“The rein hung low upon the saddle-bow, and a coiled lasso of raw hide was tied to the saddle-straps.”
#184
بخیمه درون ژنده پیلی ژیان
✦
میان تنگ بسته به ببر بیان
“Inside the tent was a fierce, gigantic elephant of a hero, his waist tightly bound in the leopard-skin coat.”
#185
یکی بور ابرش به پیشش بپای
✦
تو گفتی همی اندر آید ز جای
“Before him stood a dapple-bay steed, so fiery it seemed ready to leap out of its skin.”
#186
سپهدار چون طوس و گودرز و گیو
✦
فریبرز و شیدوش و گرگین نیو
“Commanders like Tus, Goudarz, and Giv, along with Fariborz, Shidoush, and the valiant Gorgin,”
#187
طلایه گرازست با گستهم
✦
که با بیژن گیو باشد بهم
“Formed the vanguard with Goraz and Gostaham, joined side by side with Giv's son, Bijan.”
#188
غمی شد ز گفتار فرغار شاه
✦
کس آمد بر پهلوان سپاه
“King Afrasiab grew grieved by Farghar's report, and dispatched a messenger to the commander of his host.”
#189
بیامد سپهدار پیران چو گرد
✦
بزرگان و مردان روز نبرد
“Then came Piran the warlord like a dust storm, accompanied by the elders and heroes of the day of battle.”
#190
ز گفتار فرغار چندی بگفت
✦
که تا کیست با او به پیکار جفت
“He related much of what Farghar had spoken, inquiring who amongst them could match Rustam in strife.”
#191
بدو گفت پیران که ما را ز جنگ
✦
چه چارست جز جستن نام و ننگ
“Piran replied to him: 'What choice have we in war but to seek renown or meet dishonor?'”
#192
چو پاسخ چنین یافت افراسیاب
✦
گرفت اندران کینه جستن شتاب
“When Afrasiab received such an answer, he hastened to seek vengeance and fight.”
#193
بپیران بفرمود تا با سپاه
✦
بیاید بر رستم کینه‌خواه
“He commanded Piran to march with the army to confront vengeful Rustam.”
#194
ز پیش سپهبد به بیرون کشید
✦
همی رزم را سوی هامون کشید
“He moved out from before the chieftain, leading the host of war toward the open plain.”
#195
خروش آمد از دشت و آوای کوس
✦
جهان شد ز گرد سپاه آبنوس
“Roars thundered from the plain with the sound of drums; the world turned black as ebony from the dust of the armies.”
#196
سپه بود چندانک گفتی جهان
✦
همی گردد از گرد اسپان نهان
“So vast was the army that you would say the world itself was hidden beneath the dust of horses.”
#197
تبیره زنان نعره برداشتند
✦
همی پیل بر پیل بگذاشتند
“The drummers raised their shouts, driving elephant against elephant in battle array.”
#198
از ایوان بدشت آمد افراسیاب
✦
همی کرد بر جنگ جستن شتاب
“Afrasiab came forth from his palace to the plain, hastening in his resolve for war.”
#199
بپیران بگفت آنچ بایست گفت
✦
که راز بزرگان بباید نهفت
“He told Piran whatever was necessary, for the secrets of leaders must remain concealed.”
#200
یکی نامه نزدیک پولادوند
✦
بیارای وز رای بگشای بند
“'Write a letter to Puladvand, and open your mind to wise counsel for this plight.'”
#201
بگویش که ما را چه آمد بسر
✦
ازین نامور گرد پرخاشخر
“'Tell him what calamity has befallen us at the hands of this renowned, warlike champion.'”
#202
اگر یارمندست چرخ بلند
✦
بیاید بدین دشت پولادوند
“'If lofty heaven aids us, let Puladvand enter this plain of battle.'”
#203
بسی لشکر از مرز سقلاب و چین
✦
نگونسار و حیران شدند اندرین
“'Many an army from the realms of Saqlab and Chin has been overthrown and bewildered in this fight.'”
#204
سپاهست برسان کوه روان
✦
سپهدارشان رستم پهلوان
“'An army marches like a moving mountain, and their commander is Rustam the hero.'”
#205
سپهکش چو رستم سپهدار طوس
✦
بابر اندر اورده آوای کوس
“'With champions like Rustam and leader Tus, the sound of their drums has reached the clouds.'”
#206
چو رستم بدست تو گردد تباه
✦
نیابد سپهر اندرین مرز راه
“'If Rustam perishes by your hand, no fortune will ever find a path into this realm against us.'”
#207
همه مرز را رنج زویست و بس
✦
تو باش اندرین کار فریادرس
“'All hardship in this realm stems from him alone; come now and be our savior in this trial.'”
#208
گر او را بدست تو آید زمان
✦
شود رام روی زمین بی‌گمان
“'If his destined end arrives by your hand, the face of the earth will undoubtedly grow peaceful.'”
#209
من از پادشاهی آباد خویش
✦
نه برگیرم از رنج یک رنج بیش
“'From my prosperous kingdom, I shall claim no more than one share of relief for all my toil.'”
#210
دگر نیمه دیهیم و گنج آن تست
✦
که امروز پیگار و رنج آن تست
“'The other half of the crown and treasure shall be yours, for today the strife and burden belong to you.'”
#211
نهادند بر نامه بر مهر شاه
✦
چو برزد سر از برج خرچنگ ماه
“They set the king's seal upon the letter as the moon raised its head from the constellation of Cancer.”
#212
کمر بست شیده ز پیش پدر
✦
فرستاده او بود و تیمار بر
“Shideh girded his loins before his father, serving as his envoy and bearer of his care.”
#213
بکردار آتش ز بیم گزند
✦
بیامد بنزدیک پولادوند
“Swift as fire, lest harm befall, he came into the presence of Puladvand.”
#214
برو آفرین کرد و نامه بداد
✦
همه کار رستم برو کرد یاد
“He praised him, handed over the letter, and recounted all the deeds of Rustam.”
#215
که رستم بیامد ز ایران بجنگ
✦
ابا او سپاهی بسان پلنگ
“'Rustam has come from Iran to wage war, accompanied by an army fierce as leopards.'”
#216
ببند اندر آورد کاموس را
✦
چو خاقان و منشور و فرطوس را
“'He bound Kamus in chains, as he did the Khagan, Manshur, and Fartous.'”
#217
اسیران بسیار و پیلان رمه
✦
فرستاد یکسر بایران همه
“'Hostages in abundance and herds of elephants he dispatched in their entirety to Iran.'”
#218
کنارنگ و جنگ‌آوران را بخواند
✦
ز هر گونه‌ای داستانها براند
“Puladvand summoned Kanarang and the warriors, and related tales of every kind.”
#219
بدیشان بگفت انچ در نامه بود
✦
جهانگیر برنا و خودکامه بود
“He recounted to them all that was in the letter, for he was a young conqueror, proud and willful.”
#220
بفرمود تا کوس بیرون برند
✦
سراپردهٔ او به هامون برند
“He commanded the war drums to be brought forth and his royal pavilion pitched upon the plain.”
#221
سپاه انجمن شد بکردار دیو
✦
برآمد ز گردان لشکر غریو
“An army gathered like fierce demons, and a great clamor arose from the warriors of the host.”
#222
درفش از پس و پیش پولادوند
✦
سپردار با ترکش و با کمند
“Banners marched before and behind Puladvand, flanked by shield-bearers equipped with quivers and lassos.”
#223
فرود آمد از کوه و بگذاشت آب
✦
بیامد بنزدیک افراسیاب
“He descended from the mountain, crossed the waters, and came into the presence of Afrasiab.”
#224
پذیره شدندش یکایک سپاه
✦
تبیره برآمد ز درگاه شاه
“The troops went forth to welcome him one by one, while drums resounded from the royal court.”
#225
ببر در گرفتش جهاندیده مرد
✦
ز کار گذشته بسی یاد کرد
“The world-experienced king embraced him warmly and recalled many trials of times past.”
#226
بگفت آنک تیمار ترکان ز کیست
✦
سرانجام درمان این کار چیست
“He spoke of who had brought such distress upon the Turanians, and what the final remedy for this plight might be.”
#227
خرامان بایوان خسرو شدند
✦
برای و باندیشهٔ نو شدند
“They walked grandly into the royal palace, engaging in fresh counsel and strategic thought.”
#228
سخن راند هر گونه افراسیاب
✦
ز کار درنگ و ز بهر شتاب
“Afrasiab spoke at length on every matter, weighing the wisdom of delay against the need for haste.”
#229
ز خون سیاوش که بر دست اوی
✦
چه آمد ز پرخاش وز گفت و گوی
“He recounted all that had befallen him due to the blood of Siavash—the endless conflicts and bitter disputes.”
#230
ز خاقان و منشور و کاموس گرد
✦
گذشته سخنها همه برشمرد
“He listed all past events: the fates of the Khaqan, Manshur, and Kamus the brave.”
#231
بگفت آنک این رنجم از یک تنست
✦
که او را پلنگینه پیراهنست
“He said: 'All my torment stems from a single man, he who wears a leopard-skin garment!'”
#232
نیامد سلیحم بدو کارگر
✦
بران ببر و آن خود و چینی سپر
“'My weapons have proven powerless against his tiger-skin coat, his helm, and his Chinese shield.'”
#233
بیابان سپردی و راه دراز
✦
کنون چارهٔ کار او را بساز
“'You have crossed deserts and a long road to get here; now devise a plan to overcome him.'”
#234
پر اندیشه شد جان پولادوند
✦
که آن بند را چون شود کاربند
“Puladvand's mind became filled with deep anxiety, wondering how he could untie this formidable knot.”
#235
چنین داد پاسخ بافراسیاب
✦
که در جنگ چندین نباید شتاب
“Thus he answered Afrasiab: 'One must not act with such reckless haste in battle.'”
#236
گر آنست رستم که مازندران
✦
تبه کرد و بستد بگرز گران
“'If this is indeed Rostam, who laid waste to Mazandaran and seized it with his heavy mace,'”
#237
بدرید پهلوی دیو سپید
✦
جگرگاه پولاد غندی و بید
“'Who tore open the flank of the White Demon, and pierced the hearts of Pulad-Ghandi and Bid,'”
#238
مرا نیست پایاب با جنگ اوی
✦
نیارم ببد کردن آهنگ اوی
“'Then I possess no power to fight him head-on, nor can I easily resolve to attack him.'”
#239
تن و جان من پیش رای تو باد
✦
همیشه خرد رهنمای تو باد
“'May my body and soul be devoted to your counsel, and may wisdom ever be your guide!'”
#240
من او را بر اندیشه دارم بجنگ
✦
بگردش بگردم بسان پلنگ
“'I shall engage him in combat through cunning strategy, prowling around him like a leopard.'”
#241
تو لشکر برآغال بر لشکرش
✦
بانبوه تا خیره گردد سرش
“'Unleash your host against his army in massed strength, so that his mind becomes bewildered.'”
#242
مگر چاره سازم و گر نی بدست
✦
بر و یال او را نشاید شکست
“'Perhaps then I can devise a scheme; otherwise, raw physical force cannot break his stature.'”
#243
ازو شاد شد جان افراسیاب
✦
می روشن آورد و چنگ و رباب
“Afrasiab's heart was gladdened by his words; he summoned clear wine, harps, and rebecs.”
#244
بدانگه که شد مست پولادوند
✦
چنین گفت با او ببانگ بلند
“When Puladvand grew drunk with wine, the king spoke to him in a loud voice:”
#245
که من بر فریدون و ضحاک و جم
✦
خور و خواب و آرام کردم دژم
“'I have troubled the feast, sleep, and peace of monarchs like Fereydun, Zahhak, and Jamshid!'”
#246
برهمن بترسد ز آواز من
✦
وزین لشکر گردن‌افراز من
“'Even the holy Brahmin trembles at the sound of my voice and at this proud host of mine.'”
#247
من این زابلی را بشمشیر تیز
✦
برآوردگه بر کنم ریز ریز
“'I shall hack this Zabolite into pieces with my sharp sword upon the battlefield!'”