🦅 IRANLORE | ایران‌نامه
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Heroic Era (Kianian)

Mahmood

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47 distichs in this chapter
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Kay Khosrow's Week of Devotion, His Answer to the Nobles, and Nightly Prayer for Deliverance
For seven full days and nights, King Kay Khosrow remained standing in continuous adoration before the Almighty; while his physical vessel resided in the earthly realm, his soul traversed higher domains. By the dawn of the eighth day, exhausted from his spiritual vigil, he stepped forth from the chamber of devotion and ascended his regal ivory throne.

The mighty champions of Iran looked upon their monarch in profound astonishment, filled with growing anxiety over his silent withdrawal. At Khosrow’s command, the great curtain of the audience hall was raised, and the formidable warriors—chief among them Tus, Goudarz, Giev, Gorgin, Bizhan, and Rohham—entered with arms respectfully crossed. Bowing low before the throne, they gave voice to their concern: 'O King of kings! No monarch has ever graced the ivory seat with such majesty. You have braved the fires of war, broken all enemies, and avenged your noble father, establishing justice across the earth. Why then has your soul grown dark? If any among us has offended you, or if a hidden foe threatens the realm, speak, so that we may offer our blood to shield your crown!'

Kay Khosrow looked upon his loyal lords and answered softly: 'Fear not, my brave heroes. I harbour no malice against any of you, nor does any enemy remain to challenge my rule. I have exacted vengeance for Siyavash, adorned the world with righteousness, and pressed my royal seal upon every corner of the earth. Sheathe your swords, bring forth the silver cups and ruby wine, and let the sounds of flutes and harps replace the bowstring’s clangor. For a full week I stood before God, seeking a profound wish held deep within my soul. Pray alongside me to the Almighty, for this revolving, fickle sky spares neither peasant nor king, reaping old and young alike.'

Relieved of their fears, the champions departed. Khosrow then instructed his chamberlain to draw the heavy curtains and forbid entry to all, whether stranger or kinsman. As night enveloped the palace, the King returned to his sanctuary of prayer, lifting his voice to the Creator: 'O Supreme Lord above all realms! You have fulfilled every longing of my heart and illuminated my spirit. Now, be my divine guide in the heavenly abode, that I may peacefully pass beyond this transient world...'

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The Guide
Companion of Epic Lore & Ferdowsi’s Shahnameh
Greetings, seeker of ancient lore! I am The Guide, your companion through the heroes, monarchs, mythical creatures, and timeless verses of the Shahnameh. Ask me anything about the epic tradition.
Suggested inquiries: