#1
چو کیخسرو آمد به کین خواستن
✦
جهان ساز نو خواست آراستن
“When Kay Khosrow came forth seeking vengeance, he sought to adorn the world anew.”
#2
ز توران زمین گم شد آن تخت و گاه
✦
برآمد به خورشید بر تاج شاه
“That throne and court vanished from the land of Touran, and the King's crown rose to the sun.”
#3
بپیوست با شاه ایران سپهر
✦
بر آزادگان بر بگسترد مهر
“The heavens united with the King of Iran, and he spread affection over the noble-born.”
#4
زمانه چنان شد که بود از نخست
✦
به آب وفا روی خسرو بشست
“Time became as it was in the beginning, as Khosrow washed his face with the water of loyalty.”
#5
به جویی که یک روز بگذشت آب
✦
نسازد خردمند ازو جای خواب
“In a stream bed where water once flowed, a wise man does not make his sleeping place.”
#6
چو بهری ز گیتی برو گشت راست
✦
که کین سیاوش همی باز خواست
“When a portion of the world was ordered under his rule, he sought vengeance for Siyavash.”
#7
به بگماز بنشست یک روز شاد
✦
ز گردان لشکر همی کرد یاد
“One joyful day he sat at the wine feast, remembering the brave warriors of his host.”
#8
به دیبا بیاراسته گاه شاه
✦
نهاده به سر بر کیانی کلاه
“The royal throne was adorned with brocade, and he wore the Kianian crown upon his head.”
#9
نشسته به گاه اندرون می به چنگ
✦
دل و گوش داده به آوای چنگ
“Seated upon the throne with wine in hand, he gave his heart and ear to the sound of the harp.”
#10
به رامش نشسته بزرگان به هم
✦
فریبرز کاوس با گستهم
“The magnates sat together in joy: Fariborz son of Kavuos along with Gostaham,”
#11
چو گودرز کشواد و فرهاد و گیو
✦
چو گرگین میلاد و شاپور نیو
“Like Goudarz son of Keshvad, Farhad, and Giv; like Gorgin son of Milad and brave Shapour,”
#12
شه نوذر آن طوس لشکرشکن
✦
چو رهام و چون بیژن رزم‌زن
“The prince of Nowzar, Tous the breaker of armies; like Roham and warlike Bijan,”
#13
همه بادهٔ خسروانی به دست
✦
همه پهلوانان خسروپرست
“All held royal wine in hand, all were champions who adored the King.”
#14
می اندر قدح چون عقیق یمن
✦
به پیش اندرون لاله و نسترن
“Wine in the goblet gleamed like Yemeni carnelian, while before them lay tulips and eglantines.”
#15
پریچهرگان پیش خسرو به پای
✦
سر زلفشان بر سمن مشک‌سای
“Fairy-faced maidens stood before Khosrow, their locks musk-scented upon jasmine skin.”
#16
همه بزمگه بوی و رنگ بهار
✦
کمر بسته بر پیش سالاربار
“The entire feast was filled with the fragrance and hue of spring, as the grand marshal stood girded before him.”
#17
ز پرده درآمد یکی پرده دار
✦
به نزدیک سالار شد هوشیار
“From behind the curtain emerged a chamberlain, approaching the alert grand marshal,”
#18
که بر در بپایند ارمانیان
✦
سر مرز توران و ایرانیان
“Saying that people of Arman wait at the gate, from the borderland of Touran and Iran.”
#19
همی راه جویند نزدیک شاه
✦
ز راه دراز آمده دادخواه
“They seek an audience with the King, having traveled a long road as seekers of justice.”
#20
چو سالار هشیار بشنید رفت
✦
به نزدیک خسرو خرامید تفت
“When the prudent marshal heard this, he swiftly went before Khosrow,”
#21
بگفت آنچ بشنید و فرمان گزید
✦
به پیش اندر آوردشان چون سزید
“Recounted what he had heard, received the royal command, and brought them forward fittingly.”
#22
به کش کرده دست و زمین را به روی
✦
ستردند زاری‌کنان پیش اوی
“With arms folded and faces to the ground, weeping bitterly, they touched the earth before him,”
#23
که ای شاه پیروز جاوید زی
✦
که خود جاودان زندگی را سزی
“Saying: 'O victorious King, live forever! For indeed, eternal life is worthy of thee.'”
#24
ز شهری به داد آمدستیم دور
✦
که ایران ازین سوی زان سوی تور
“'We have come seeking justice from a distant city, situated between Iran on this side and Touran on that,'”
#25
کجا خان ارمانش خوانند نام
✦
وز ارمانیان نزد خسرو پیام
“'Which is named the realm of Arman; and from the Armanians we bring a message unto Khosrow:'”
#26
که نوشه زی ای شاه تا جاودان
✦
به هر کشوری دسترس بر بدان
“'Live healthily, O King, unto eternity! May thy hand reach evil-doers in every land!'”
#27
به هر هفت کشور تویی شهریار
✦
ز هر بد تو باشی بهر شهر، یار
“'Thou art sovereign over all seven climes; thou art the helper of every city against ill.'”
#28
سر مرز توران در شهر ماست
✦
ازیشان به ما بر چه مایه بلاست
“'The border of Touran lies at our town; how much calamity reaches us from them!'”
#29
سوی شهر ایران یکی بیشه بود
✦
که ما را بدان بیشه اندیشه بود
“'Toward Iran lay a forest which caused us much anxiety and grief.'”
#30
چه مایه بدو اندرون کشتزار
✦
درخت برآور همه میوه‌دار
“'Within it were vast cultivated fields and fruitful, blossom-laden trees,'”
#31
چراگاه ما بود و فریاد ما
✦
ایا شاه ایران بده داد ما
“'It was our pasture and our refuge; O King of Iran, grant us justice!'”
#32
گراز آمد اکنون فزون از شمار
✦
گرفت آن همه بیشه و مرغزار
“'Wild boars beyond count have now arrived, seizing all that forest and meadow.'”
#33
به دندان چو پیلان به تن همچو کوه
✦
وزیشان شده شهر ارمان ستوه
“'With tusks like elephants and bodies like mountains; the city of Arman is desperate because of them.'”
#34
هم از چارپایان و هم کشتمند
✦
ازیشان به ما بر چه مایه گزند
“'Both to our livestock and to our crops, how vast is the harm they inflict upon us!'”
#35
درختان، کشتن نداریم یاد
✦
به دندان به دو نیمه کردند شاد
“'The fruit trees we planted, they have severed in two with their tusks.'”
#36
نیاید به دندانشان سنگ سخت
✦
مگرمان به یکباره برگشت بخت
“'Even hard stone cannot withstand their teeth; surely our fortune has completely turned.'”
#37
چو بشنید گفتار فریادخواه
✦
به درد دل اندر بپیچید شاه
“When the King heard the words of the supplicant, his heart twisted in grief.”
#38
بریشان ببخشود خسرو به درد
✦
به گردان گردنکش آواز کرد
“Khosrow took pity upon them in pain, and called out to his proud heroes:”
#39
که ای نامداران و گردان من
✦
که جوید همی نام ازین انجمن
“'O my renowned paladins and brave ones, who among this council seeks renown?'”
#40
شود سوی این بیشهٔ خوک خورد
✦
به نام بزرگ و به ننگ و نبرد
“'Who will go unto this forest of swine, for the sake of great fame, honor, and combat?'”
#41
ببرد سران گرازان به تیغ
✦
ندارم ازو گنج گوهر دریغ
“'And sever the heads of these boars with his sword? I shall not withhold treasures of jewels from him.'”
#42
یکی خوان زرین بفرمود شاه
✦
ک بنهاد گنجور در پیشگاه
“The King ordered a golden tray to be brought, which the treasurer set before the throne.”
#43
ز هر گونه گوهر برو ریختند
✦
همه یک بدیگر برآمیختند
“They poured jewels of every kind upon it, all mixed together in brilliant display.”
#44
ده اسب گرانمایه زرین لگام
✦
نهاده برو داغ کاوس نام
“And ten precious steeds with golden bridles, marked with the brand of King Kavuos,”
#45
به دیبای رومی بیاراستند
✦
بسی ز انجمن نامور خواستند
“Adorned in fine Roman silks; and he sought a renowned man from the gathering.”
#46
چنین گفت پس شهریار زمین
✦
که ای نامداران با آفرین
“Then spoke the King of the Earth: "O praised and glorious nobles!"”
#47
که جوید به آزرم من رنج خویش
✦
ازان پس کند گنج من گنج خویش
“"Who will undertake toil out of respect for me, and thereafter count my treasure as his own?"”
#48
کس از انجمن هیچ پاسخ نداد
✦
مگر بیژن گیو فرخ‌نژاد
“None in that assembly offered an answer, save Bijan, the son of Gev of blessed lineage.”
#49
نهاد از میان گوان پیش پای
✦
ابر شاه کرد آفرین خدای
“He stepped forward from amidst the warriors and offered praises to God before the King.”
#50
که جاوید بادی و پیروز و شاد
✦
سرت سبز باد و دلت پر ز داد
“Saying: "May you live forever, victorious and joyful; may your head be green and your heart filled with justice!”
#51
گرفته به دست اندرون جام می
✦
شب و روز بر یاد کاوس کی
“Holding the wine cup in my hand night and day, drinking to the memory of Kay Kavus,”
#52
که خرم به مینو بود جان تو
✦
به گیتی پراکنده فرمان تو
“May your soul abide happily in Paradise, and your decree be carried across the world!”
#53
من آیم به فرمان این کار پیش
✦
ز بهر تو دارم تن و جان خویش
“I shall step forward to fulfill this command; for your sake do I devote my life and soul."”
#54
چو بیژن چنین گفت گیو از کران
✦
نگه کرد و آن کارش آمد گران
“When Bijan spoke thus, Gev observed from the side, and that undertaking weighed heavily upon him.”
#55
نخست آفرین کرد مر شاه را
✦
به بیژن نمود آنگهی راه را
“First he offered praise unto the King, and then he showed the prudent path to Bijan.”
#56
بفرزند گفت این جوانی چراست
✦
به نیروی خویش این گمانی چراست
“He said to his son: "Why this youthful rashness? Why this blind presumption in your own strength?”
#57
جوان گرچه دانا بود با گهر
✦
ابی آزمایش نگیرد هنر
“A youth, though wise and of noble birth, acquires no true mastery without trial.”
#58
بد و نیک هر گونه باید کشید
✦
ز هر تلخ و شوری بباید چشید
“One must endure every manner of good and ill; one must taste both the bitter and the salty of life.”
#59
به راهی که هرگز نرفتی مپوی
✦
بر شاه خیره مبر آبروی
“Do not tread upon a path you have never traveled, nor rashly compromise your honor before the King."”
#60
ز گفت پدر پس برآشفت سخت
✦
جوان بود و هشیار و پیروز بخت
“At his father's words, the young hero flared with anger; he was youthful, keen-witted, and blest by fate.”
#61
چنین گفت کای شاه پیروزگر
✦
تو بر من به سستی گمانی مبر
“He said: "O victorious King! harbor no thoughts of weakness concerning me.”
#62
تو این گفته‌ها از من اندر پذیر
✦
جوانم ولیکن به اندیشه پیر
“Accept these words from me: I am young, yet in judgment and wisdom I am an elder.”
#63
منم بیژن گیو لشکرشکن
✦
سر خوک را بگسلانم ز تن
“I am Bijan, son of Gev, breaker of armies! I shall sever the heads of wild boars from their bodies!"”
#64
چو بیژن چنین گفت شد شاه شاد
✦
برو آفرین کرد و فرمانش داد
“When Bijan spoke thus, the King rejoiced, bestowed his blessing upon him, and issued his command.”
#65
بدو گفت خسرو که ای پر هنر
✦
همیشه به پیش بدیها سپر
“Khosrow said to him: "O hero of many talents, ever a shield against incoming evils!”
#66
کسی را کجا چون تو کهتر بود
✦
ز دشمن بترسد سبکسر بود
“Whoever possesses a servant such as you and yet fears the enemy is indeed foolish and faint-hearted."”
#67
به گرگین میلاد گفت آنگهی
✦
که بیژن به توران نداند رهی
“He then spoke to Gorgin, son of Milad: "Bijan knows not the path to Turan;”
#68
تو با او برو تا سر آب بند
✦
همش راهبر باش و هم یارمند
“Go with him as far as the border dam; serve as both his guide and his companion."”
#69
از آنجا بسیچید بیژن به راه
✦
کمر بست و بنهاد بر سر کلاه
“From that moment, Bijan made ready for the road; he girded his loins and placed his helmet upon his head.”
#70
بیاورد گرگین میلاد را
✦
هم آواز ره را و فریاد را
“He brought along Gorgin, son of Milad, to share his counsel and call upon the long journey.”
#71
برفت از در شاه با یوز و باز
✦
به نخچیر کردن براه دراز
“He departed from the King's court with hunting cheetahs and falcons, to hunt along the extended path.”
#72
همی رفت چون پیل کفک افگنان
✦
سر گور و آهو ز تن برکنان
“He rode onward like a furious, foaming elephant, severing the heads of wild asses and gazelles from their bodies.”
#73
ز چنگال یوزان همه دشت غرم
✦
دریده بر و دل پر از داغ و گرم
“From the talons of the cheetahs, the breasts of wild sheep across the plain were torn, their hearts searing with grief.”
#74
همه گردن گور زخم کمند
✦
چه بیژن چه طهمورث دیوبند
“The necks of wild asses were ensnared by lassoes; Bijan was like Tahmuras, the Demon-Binder.”
#75
تذروان به چنگال باز اندرون
✦
چکان از هوا بر سمن برگ خون
“Pheasants hung in the claws of falcons, dripping blood from the sky onto jasmine petals below.”
#76
بدین سان همی راه بگذاشتند
✦
همه دشت را باغ پنداشتند
“In this manner they traversed the road, beholding the vast desert as though it were a lush garden.”
#77
چو بیژن به بیشه برافگند چشم
✦
بجوشید خونش به تن پر ز خشم
“When Bijan cast his eyes upon the thicket, his blood boiled in his body, brimming with rage.”
#78
گرازان گرازان نه آگاه ازین
✦
که بیژن نهادست بر بور زین
“The boars were prowling proudly, unaware that Bijan had saddled his chestnut steed.”
#79
به گرگین میلاد گفت اندرآی
✦
وگرنه ز یکسو بپرداز جای
“He said to Gorgin, son of Milad: "Step forward into action, or else step aside and clear the ground!”
#80
برو تا به نزدیک آن آبگیر
✦
چو من با گراز اندر آیم به تیر
“Go toward that reservoir of water, while I engage the boars with my arrows."”
#81
بدانگه که از بیشه خیزد خروش
✦
تو بردار گرز و به جای آر هوش
“When a roar arises from the thicket, grasp your mace and keep your wits about you.”
#82
به بیژن چنین گفت گرگین گو
✦
که پیمان نه این بود با شاه نو
“Gurgin the champion said thus to Bijan: 'This was not the pact made with the new king.'”
#83
تو برداشتی گوهر و سیم و زر
✦
تو بستی مرین رزمگه را کمر
“'You accepted the jewels, silver, and gold; it was you who girded yourself for this arena.'”
#84
چو بیژن شنید این سخن خیره شد
✦
همه چشمش از روی او تیره شد
“When Bijan heard these words, he was astonished; his vision grew dark before Gorgin's presence.”
#85
به بیشه درآمد به کردار شیر
✦
کمان را بزه کرد مرد دلیر
“Like a lion he entered the thicket, and the valiant warrior strung his bow.”
#86
چو ابر بهاران بغرید سخت
✦
فرو ریخت پیکان چو برگ درخت
“He roared fiercely like a spring cloud, and his arrowheads rained down like leaves from trees.”
#87
برفت از پس خوک چون پیل مست
✦
یکی خنجر آب داده به دست
“Dagger of tempered steel in hand, he charged after the wild boars like a furious elephant.”
#88
همه جنگ را پیش او تاختند
✦
زمین را به دندان برانداختند
“The beasts rushed forward to engage him, tearing up the ground with their monstrous tusks.”
#89
ز دندان همی آتش افروختند
✦
تو گفتی که گیتی همی سوختند
“Sparks flew from their clashing tusks, as though the whole world was ablaze.”
#90
گرازی بیامد چو آهرمنا
✦
زره را بدرید بر بیژنا
“A boar came forth monstrous as Ahriman, tearing open Bijan's chain-mail armor.”
#91
چو سوهان پولاد بر سنگ سخت
✦
همی سود دندان خود بر درخت
“Like a rasp of steel upon hard stone, it whetted its tusks against the trees.”
#92
برانگیختند آتش کارزار
✦
برآمد یکی دود زان مرغزار
“They ignited the fire of battle, until a thick smoke rose up from the meadow.”
#93
بزد خنجری بر میان بیژنش
✦
بدو نیمه شد پیل پیکر تنش
“Bijan struck the beast across the middle with his dagger, cleaving its elephantine frame into two.”
#94
چو روبه شدند آن ددان دلیر
✦
تن از تیغ پر خون دل از جنگ سیر
“Those valiant beasts turned weak as foxes, their bodies soaked in blood, their hearts weary of fight.”
#95
سرانشان به خنجر ببرید پست
✦
به فتراک شبرنگ سرکش ببست
“He severed their heads with his dagger and bound them to the saddle-straps of his unruly black charger.”
#96
که دندانها نزد شاه آورد
✦
تن بی‌سرانشان به راه آورد
“So that he might bring their tusks before the king, and carry their headless trunks along the road.”
#97
به گردان ایران نماید هنر
✦
ز پیلان جنگی جدا کرده سر
“Thus to display his prowess to Iran's knights, having severed the heads from those war-elephants.”
#98
به گردون برافگند هر یک چو کوه
✦
بشد گاومیش از کشیدن ستوه
“He loaded each mountain-like body onto a cart, until the oxen grew weary from the heavy hauling.”
#99
بداندیش گرگین شوریده رفت
✦
ز یک سوی بیشه درآمد چو تفت
“The malevolent and agitated Gorgin moved swiftly, emerging from one side of the wood.”
#100
همه بیشه آمد به چشمش کبود
✦
برو آفرین کرد و شادی نمود
“The entire wood appeared dark blue in his envious eyes, yet he offered praise and feigned joy.”
#101
به دلش اندر آمد ازان کار درد
✦
ز بدنامی خویش ترسید مرد
“A deep grief filled his heart at Bijan's feat, for the man trembled in dread of his own disgrace.”
#102
دلش را بپیچید آهرمنا
✦
بد انداختن کرد با بیژنا
“Ahriman twisted his heart, prompting him to plot treacherous schemes against Bijan.”
#103
سگالش چنین بد نوشته چنین
✦
نکرد ایچ یاد از جهان آفرین
“Such was his evil intent and such was destiny written; he gave no thought to the World-Creator.”
#104
کسی کو به ره بر کند ژرف چاه
✦
سزد گر نهد در بن چاه گاه
“Whosoever digs a deep pit upon another's path, it is fitting that he himself find his place at its bottom.”
#105
ز بهر فزونی وز بهر نام
✦
به راه جوان بر بگسترد دام
“Out of greed for preeminence and fame, he set a snare in the path of the young hero.”
#106
نگر تا چه بد ساخت آن بی‌وفا
✦
مر او را چه پیش آورید از جفا
“Consider what malice that faithless man devised, and what affliction his cruelty brought upon Bijan!”
#107
بدو آن زمان مهربانی نمود
✦
به خوبی مر او را فراوان ستود
“Yet at that moment he feigned warmth toward him, bestowing upon him lavish praises.”
#108
چو از جنگ و کشتن بپرداختند
✦
نشستنگه رود و می ساختند
“When they had finished with the battle and slaughter, they arranged a gathering place for music and wine.”
#109
نبد بیژن آگه ز کردار اوی
✦
همی راست پنداشت گفتار اوی
“Bijan was unaware of his inner motive, taking all his spoken words for absolute truth.”
#110
چو خوردند زان سرخ می اندکی
✦
به گرگین نگه کرد بیژن یکی
“When they had drunk a little of that ruby wine, Bijan turned his gaze upon Gorgin.”
#111
بدو گفت چون دیدی این جنگ من
✦
بدین گونه با خوک آهنگ من
“He said to him: 'How did you witness my fighting, and my furious charge against the boars?'”
#112
چنین داد پاسخ که ای شیرخوی
✦
به گیتی ندیدم چو تو جنگجوی
“He answered: 'O lion-hearted warrior, I have seen no warrior like you in all the world.'”
#113
به ایران و توران ترا یار نیست
✦
چنین کار پیش تو دشوار نیست
“'In Iran and Turan you have no peer; such a trial presents no difficulty for you.'”
#114
دل بیژن از گفت او شاد شد
✦
به سان یکی سرو آزاد شد
“Bijan's heart gladdened at his words, standing tall and proud like a noble cypress.”
#115
به بیژن چنین گفت پس پهلوان
✦
که ای نامور گرد روشن‌روان
“Then the hero Gorgin spoke to Bijan, saying: 'O famed knight of radiant mind...'”
#116
برآمد ترا این چنین کار چند
✦
به نیروی یزدان و بخت بلند
“You have accomplished several such great deeds by the Almighty's power and your own high fortune.”
#117
کنون گفتنی ها بگویم ترا
✦
که من چندگه بوده‌ام ایدرا
“Now I shall tell you what must be told, for I have been present in these lands for some time.”
#118
چه با رستم و گیو و با گژدهم
✦
چه با طوس نوذر چه با گستهم
“Whether alongside Rostam, Giv, and Gazhdaham, or with Tus son of Nowzar and Gustaham.”
#119
چه مایه هنرها برین پهن دشت
✦
که کردیم و گردون بران بر گذشت
“What vast feats of prowess we achieved upon this wide plain while the revolving heaven rolled on!”
#120
کجا نام ما زان برآمد بلند
✦
به نزدیک خسرو شدیم ارجمند
“Whereby our name rose high and exalted, and we became cherished in the eyes of King Khosrow.”
#121
یکی جشنگاهست ز ایدر نه دور
✦
به دو روزه راه اندر آید بتور
“Not far from here lies a place of celebration, reachable in a two-day ride into Turan.”
#122
یکی دشت بینی همه سبز و زرد
✦
کزو شاد گردد دل رادمرد
“You shall behold a plain all verdant and golden, which gladdens the heart of any noble warrior.”
#123
همه بیشه و باغ و آب روان
✦
یکی جایگه از در پهلوان
“Covered in groves, gardens, and flowing waters—a domain truly worthy of a hero.”
#124
زمین پرنیان و هوا مشکبوی
✦
گلابست گویی مگر آب جوی
“The earth is like silk and the air musky; the water of its brooks seems pure rosewater.”
#125
ز عنبرش خاک و ز یاقوت سنگ
✦
هوا مشکبوی و زمین رنگ رنگ
“Its soil is ambergris, its pebbles ruby; the atmosphere wafts musk and the ground is richly hued.”
#126
خم‌آورده از بار شاخ سمن
✦
صنم گشته پالیز و گلبن شمن
“Jasmine boughs bow beneath their heavy yield; the orchard turns into an idol-shrine, the rosebush its priest.”
#127
خرامان به گرد گل اندر تذرو
✦
خروشیدن بلبل از شاخ سرو
“Pheasants strut gracefully around the blossoms, while the nightingale warbles from the cypress bough.”
#128
ازین پس کنون تا نه بس روزگار
✦
شود چون بهشت آن همه مرغزار
“From now onward, in but a fleeting moment, that entire meadow shall bloom like paradise.”
#129
پری چهره بینی همه دشت و کوه
✦
ز هر سو نشسته به شادی گروه
“You shall see fairy-faced beauties across hill and plain, seated in joyful groups on every side.”
#130
منیژه کجا دخت افراسیاب
✦
درفشان کند باغ چون آفتاب
“Where Manijeh, the radiant daughter of Afrasiab, lights up the garden like the brilliant sun.”
#131
همه دخت توران پوشیده‌روی
✦
همه سرو بالا همه مشک موی
“All the maidens of Turan veil their faces, tall as cypresses and scented with musky tresses.”
#132
همه رخ پر از گل همه چشم خواب
✦
همه لب پر از می به بوی گلاب
“Their cheeks brimming with roses, eyes heavy with sleep, their lips moist with wine smelling of rosewater.”
#133
اگر ما به نزدیک آن جشنگاه
✦
شویم و بتازیم یک روزه راه
“If we now ride towards that place of feasting and gallop a single day's journey,”
#134
بگیریم ازیشان پری چهره چند
✦
بنزدیک خسرو شویم ارجمند
“We may capture a few of those fairy-faced maidens, and thus gain high honor before King Khosrow.”
#135
چو گرگین چنین گفت بیژن جوان
✦
بجوشیدش آن گوهر پهلوان
“When Gorgin spoke these words, the heroic nature within young Bijan surged with fervor.”
#136
گهی نام جست اندران گاه کام
✦
جوان بد جوانوار برداشت گام
“Seeking now renown and now pleasure, being youthful, he stepped forth like a fiery youth.”
#137
برفتند هر دو به راه دراز
✦
یکی آز پیشه دگر کینه‌ساز
“Both set out upon the long trail—one driven by longing, the other harbouring malice.”
#138
میان دو بیشه به یک روزه راه
✦
فرود آمد آن گرد لشکر پناه
“Between two woodlands, after a day's journey, that warrior—refuge of the host—dismounted.”
#139
بدان مرغزاران ارمان دو روز
✦
همی شاد بودند با باز و یوز
“In those meadows of Arman for two full days, they made merry hunting with falcon and cheetah.”
#140
چو دانست گرگین که آمد عروس
✦
همه دشت ازو شد چو چشم خروس
“When Gorgin knew the bride-like fair one had arrived, the entire plain sparkled bright like a rooster's eye.”
#141
به بیژن پس آن داستان برگشاد
✦
وزان جشن و رامش بسی کرد یاد
“Then Gorgin broached the tale once more to Bijan, recalling much of that grand feast and delight.”
#142
به گرگین چنین گفت پس بیژنا
✦
که من پیشتر سازم این رفتنا
“Bijan then replied to Gorgin: 'I shall prepare to set forth before you.'”
#143
شوم بزمگه را ببینم ز دور
✦
که ترکان همی چون بسیچند سور
“'I will go to observe the feast from afar, and see how the Turks prepare their grand celebration.'”
#144
وز آن جایگه پس بتابم عنان
✦
به گردن برآرم ز دوده سنان
“'And from that vantage point I shall turn back, raising my ancestral spear high over my shoulder.'”
#145
زنیم آنگهی رای هشیارتر
✦
شود دل ز دیدار بیدارتر
“'We shall then take wiser counsel, for the heart becomes far more vigilant upon seeing.'”
#146
به گنجور گفت آن کلاه بزر
✦
که در بزمگه بر نهادم به سر
“He commanded his treasurer: 'Bring that golden crown which I wear upon my head at banquets,'”
#147
که روشن شدی زو همه بزمگاه
✦
بیاور که ما را کنونست گاه
“'Which used to illuminate the whole feast—bring it, for now is our time!'”
#148
همان طوق کیخسرو و گوشوار
✦
همان یارهٔ گیو گوهرنگار
“'Bring also Kay Khosrow's necklace and earring, and Giv's jewel-adorned armlet!'”
#149
بپوشید رخشنده رومی قبای
✦
ز تاج اندر آویخت پر همای
“He donned a radiant Roman tunic, and attached the feather of the Huma bird to his crown.”
#150
نهادند بر پشت شبرنگ زین
✦
کمر خواست با پهلوانی نگین
“They placed the saddle upon his jet-black steed; he called for his belt and hero's signet ring.”
#151
بیامد بنزدیک آن بیشه شد
✦
دل کامجویش پر اندیشه شد
“He approached the grove, his longing heart filled with deep contemplation and yearning.”
#152
به زیر یکی سر وبن شد بلند
✦
که تا ز آفتابش نباشد گزند
“He stepped beneath a tall cypress tree, seeking shade so the harsh sun might not harm him.”
#153
به نزدیک آن خیمهٔ خوب چهر
✦
بیامد بدلش اندر افروخت مهر
“As he drew near the tent of that lovely maiden, a flame of love ignited within his heart.”
#154
همه دشت ز آوای رود و سرود
✦
روان را همی داد گفتی درود
“The whole plain resounded with the melody of lutes and songs, offering greetings to the human soul.”
#155
منیژه چو از خیمه کردش نگاه
✦
بدید آن سهی قد لشکر پناه
“When Manijeh cast a glance from her pavilion, she beheld that tall warrior, a refuge to armies.”
#156
به رخسارگان چون سهیل یمن
✦
بنفشه گرفته دو برگ سمن
“His cheeks shone bright like the star Canopus of Yemen, while dark violets clustered upon two jasmine leaves.”
#157
کلاه تهم پهلوان بر سرش
✦
درفشان ز دیبای رومی برش
“The mighty champion wore a heroic helmet on his head, while his chest gleamed with Roman brocade.”
#158
به پرده درون دخت پوشیده روی
✦
بجوشید مهرش دگر شد به خوی
“Within the curtain, the veiled maiden felt her love well up, and her nature transformed in passion.”
#159
فرستاد مر دایه را چون نوند
✦
که رو زیر آن شاخ سرو بلند
“Swiftly she dispatched her nurse like a swift messenger, saying, "Go beneath the branch of that tall cypress tree,"”
#160
نگه کن که آن ماه دیدار کیست
✦
سیاوش مگر زنده شد گر پریست
“"Look well to see who that moon-faced knight may be—is it Siavash reborn, or perchance a fairy spirit?"”
#161
بپرسش که چون آمدی ایدرا
✦
نیایی بدین بزمگاه اندرا
“"Ask him: How came you to this place? Will you not step inside our place of festivity?"”
#162
پریزاده‌ای گر سیاوشیا
✦
که دلها به مهرت همی جوشیا
“"Are you a son of fairies, or Siavash himself, that hearts boil over with love for you?"”
#163
وگر خاست اندر جهان رستخیز
✦
که بفروختی آتش مهر تیز
“"Or has the Day of Resurrection arisen in the world, that you have kindled so fierce a fire of love?"”
#164
که من سالیان اندرین مرغزار
✦
همی جشن سازم به هر نوبهار
“"For years I have held festivities in this meadow every springtime,"”
#165
بدین بزمگه بر ندیدیم کس
✦
ترا دیدم ای سرو آزاده بس
“"Yet never have we seen anyone at this feast until now, O noble cypress, save you alone."”
#166
چو دایه بر بیژن آمد فراز
✦
برو آفرین کرد و بردش نماز
“When the nurse approached Bijan, she showered praise upon him and bowed low in reverence.”
#167
پیام منیژه به بیژن بگفت
✦
همه روی بیژن چو گل بر شکفت
“She delivered Manijeh's message to Bijan, and his whole face blossomed like a rose in joy.”
#168
چنین پاسخ آورد بیژن بدوی
✦
که من ای فرستادهٔ خوب روی
“Bijan gave her this response, saying: "O fair-faced messenger,"”
#169
سیاوش نیم نز پری زادگان
✦
از ایرانم از تخم آزادگان
“"I am not Siavash, nor born of fairy realm; I am from Iran, of the lineage of the freeborn."”
#170
منم بیژن گیو ز ایران به جنگ
✦
به زخم گراز آمدم بی‌درنگ
“"I am Bijan, son of Giv, come from Iran for battle, riding swiftly to strike down the wild boars."”
#171
سرانشان بریدم فگندم براه
✦
که دندانهاشان برم نزد شاه
“"I severed their heads and cast them on the path, so I might bring their tusks before the King."”
#172
چو زین جشنگاه آگهی یافتم
✦
سوی گیو گودرز نشتافتم
“"When I learned of this festive place, I delayed my return to Giv and Goudarz."”
#173
بدین رزمگاه آمدستم فراز
✦
بپیموده بسیار راه دراز
“"I have traveled a long, arduous journey to arrive here at this place."”
#174
مگر چهرهٔ دخت افراسیاب
✦
نماید مرا بخت فرخ بخواب
“"Hoping that auspicious fortune might reveal to me, as in a dream, the face of Afrasiab's daughter."”
#175
همی بینم این دشت آراسته
✦
چو بتخانهٔ چین پر از خواسته
“"I see this plain adorned like a Chinese idol-temple, brimming with riches and delights."”
#176
اگر نیک رایی کنی تاج زر
✦
ترا بخشم و گوشوار و کمر
“"If you act with good intent and aid me, I shall bestow upon you a golden crown, earrings, and a girdle."”
#177
مرا سوی آن خوب چهر آوری
✦
دلش با دل من به مهر آوری
“"If you guide me to that fair-faced maiden, uniting her heart with mine in loving bond."”
#178
چو بیژن چنین گفت شد دایه باز
✦
بگوش منیژه سرایید راز
“When Bijan spoke thus, the nurse returned and whispered the secret into Manijeh's ear,”
#179
که رویش چنینست بالا چنین
✦
چنین آفریدش جهان آفرین
“Saying, "Such is his countenance, such his lofty stature; thus wondrously did the Creator fashion him."”
#180
چو بشنید از دایه او این سخن
✦
بفرمود رفتن سوی سرو بن
“When she heard these words from her nurse, she commanded her to go back to the cypress tree,”
#181
فرستاد پاسخ هم اندر زمان
✦
کت آمد بدست آنچ بردی گمان
“And sent immediate reply: "That which your mind envisioned has now come within your reach."”
#182
گر آیی خرامان به نزدیک من
✦
بیفروزی این جان تاریک من
“"If you come gracefully to my side, you shall illuminate my dark soul."”
#183
نماند آنگهی جایگاه سخن
✦
خرامید زان سایهٔ سروبن
“No further time was left for words; Bijan stepped forth from the shadow of the cypress tree.”
#184
سوی خیمهٔ دخت آزاده خوی
✦
پیاده همی گام زد با آرزوی
“On foot, full of yearning, he paced toward the pavilion of that noble-born maiden.”
#185
به پرده درآمد چو سرو بلند
✦
میانش به زرین کمر کرده بند
“He entered the curtained tent like a tall cypress, his waist girded with a golden belt.”
#186
منیژه بیامد گرفتش به بر
✦
گشاد از میانش کیانی کمر
“Manijeh came and embraced him in her arms, unbuckling the Kayanid belt from his waist.”
#187
بپرسیدش از راه و رنج دراز
✦
که با تو که آمد به جنگ گراز؟
“She asked him about the long journey and its hardships: 'Who accompanied you to fight the wild boars?'”
#188
چرا این چنین روی و بالا و برز
✦
برنجانی ای خوب چهره به گرز
“'Why should a handsome youth with such stature and strength distress himself with a heavy mace?'”
#189
بشستند پایش به مشک و گلاب
✦
گرفتند زان پس به خوردن شتاب
“They washed his feet with musk and rosewater, and then made haste to partake of a banquet.”
#190
نهادند خوان و خورش گونه گون
✦
همی ساختند از گمانی فزون
“They laid out a table with diverse culinary delights, preparing a feast far beyond all expectation.”
#191
نشستنگه رود و می ساختند
✦
ز بیگانه خیمه بپرداختند
“They set up a place for music and wine, clearing the pavilion of all strangers.”
#192
پرستندگان ایستاده به پای
✦
ابا بربط و چنگ و رامش سرای
“Attendants stood ready, with lutes, harps, and musicians filling the hall with melody.”
#193
به دیبا زمین کرده طاووس رنگ
✦
ز دینار و دیبا چو پشت پلنگ
“The ground was draped in peacock-colored brocade, adorned with gold coins and silks like a leopard's skin.”
#194
چه از مشک و عنبر چه یاقوت و زر
✦
سراپرده آراسته سربه‌سر
“With musk, ambergris, rubies, and gold, the pavilion was completely adorned from end to end.”
#195
می سال‌خورده به جام بلور
✦
برآورده با بیژن گیو زور
“Aged wine served in crystal goblets began to overcome the strength of Bijan, son of Giv.”
#196
سه روز و سه شب شاد بوده به هم
✦
گرفته بر او خواب مستی ستم
“For three days and three nights they rejoiced together, until heavy slumber from intoxication overpowered him.”
#197
چو هنگام رفتن فراز آمدش
✦
به دیدار بیژن نیاز آمدش
“When the hour of departure arrived, Manijeh felt a deep longing to stay with Bijan.”
#198
بفرمود تا داروی هوش‌بر
✦
پرستنده آمیخت با نوش‌بر
“She ordered an attendant to mix a potent sleeping draught into a sweet, pleasant drink.”
#199
بدادند مر بیژن گیو را
✦
مر آن نیک دل نامور نیو را
“They served the potion to Bijan, son of Giv—that brave and noble-hearted warrior.”
#200
منیژه چو بیژن دژم روی ماند
✦
پرستندگان را بر خویش خواند
“When Bijan lay unconscious with a pale face, Manijeh summoned her handmaids to her side.”
#201
عماری بسیچید رفتن به راه
✦
مر آن خفته را اندر آن جایگاه
“She prepared a litter for the journey, placing the sleeping hero within it.”
#202
ز یک سو نشستنگه کام را
✦
دگر ساخته جای آرام را
“On one side she arranged a seating place for pleasure, and on the other, a restful couch.”
#203
بگسترد کافور بر جای خواب
✦
همی ریخت بر چوب صندل گلاب
“She scattered camphor over his bed and sprinkled rosewater upon scented sandalwood.”
#204
چو آمد به نزدیک شهر اندرا
✦
بپوشید بر خفته بر چادرا
“As she drew near the city, she covered the sleeping knight beneath a veil.”
#205
نهفته به کاخ اندر آمد به شب
✦
به بیگانگان هیچ نگشاد لب
“Under cover of night she brought him secretly into the palace, uttering not a word to any stranger.”
#206
چو بیدار شد بیژن و هوش یافت
✦
نگار سمن‌بر در آغوش یافت
“When Bijan awoke and regained his senses, he found the jasmine-scented maiden in his arms.”
#207
به ایوان افراسیاب اندرا
✦
ابا ماه‌رخ سر به بالین برا
“He found himself inside Afrasiab's palace, laying his head on the pillow beside that moon-faced beauty.”
#208
بپیچید بر خویشتن بیژنا
✦
به یزدان بنالید ز آهرمنا
“Bijan writhed in distress and cried out to God against the evil turn of fate.”
#209
چنین گفت کای کردگار ار مرا
✦
رهایی نخواهد بدن ز ایدرا
“He prayed: 'O Creator! If it be my fate that I find no deliverance from this place,'”
#210
ز گرگین تو خواهی مگر کین من
✦
بر او بشنوی درد و نفرین من
“'May Thou exact my vengeance upon Gurgin, and hear my anguish and curses against him!'”
#211
که او بد مرا بر بدی رهنمون
✦
همی خواند بر من فراوان فسون
“'For he led me into evil ways, repeatedly weaving treacherous spells upon me.'”
#212
منیژه بدو گفت دل شاد دار
✦
همه کار نابوده را باد دار
“Manijeh said to him: 'Keep your heart joyful, and regard what has not come to pass as mere wind.'”
#213
به مردان ز هر گونه کار آیدا
✦
گهی بزم و گه کارزار آیدا
“'To brave men come all manner of fortunes—sometimes the feast of joy, and sometimes the field of battle.'”
#214
ز هر خرگهی گل‌رخی خواستند
✦
به دیبای رومی بیاراستند
“They summoned a rose-cheeked maiden from every tent, decking them out in fine Roman silk.”
#215
پری چهرگان رود برداشتند
✦
به شادی همه روز بگذاشتند
“Those fairy-faced maidens took up their instruments, spending the entire day in joyous feast.”