#1
وزانجا برانگیخت شبرنگ را
✦
بدیدش یکی بیشه تنگ را
“From there he spurred his night-black charger fast, / And reached a narrow thicket at the last.”
#2
دو شیر ژیان پیش آن بیشه دید
✦
کمان را به زه کرد و اندر کشید
“Two raging lions by the wood he spied; / He notched his bow and drew the string wide.”
#3
بزد تیر بر سینهٔ شیر چاک
✦
گذر کرد تا پر و پیکان به خاک
“He shot an arrow, split the male lion's chest, / Through skin and bone to earth the shaft was pressed.”
#4
بر ماده شد تیز بگشاد دست
✦
بر شیر با گردرانش ببست
“Then toward the female lion he swiftly drew, / And bound her strength, her fierce waist broke in two.”
#5
چنین گفت کان تیر بی‌پر بود
✦
نبد تیز پیکان او کر بود
“They said that shaft was unfeathered and plain, / Its point unsharpened, yet the beast was slain.”
#6
سپاهی همی خواندند آفرین
✦
که ای نامور شهریار زمین
“The army called out praises far and near: / 'O famed and mighty monarch of the sphere!'”
#7
ندید و نبیند کسی در جهان
✦
چو تو شاه بر تخت شاهنشهان
“'No eyes have seen, nor shall the world behold / A king like thee upon the throne of old.'”
#8
چو با تیر بی‌پر تو شیرافگنی
✦
پی کوه خارا ز بن برکنی
“'When unplumed shafts fell lions at thy stroke, / High flinty mountains from their roots are broke!'”
#9
بدان مرغزار اندرون راند شاه
✦
ز لشکر هرانکس که بد نیک‌خواه
“Into that meadow rode the monarch grand, / With all who wished him well in all the land.”
#10
یکی بیشه دیدند پر گوسفند
✦
شبانان گریزان ز بیم گزند
“They saw a meadow filled with sheep and flock, / And shepherds fleeing from some deadly shock.”
#11
یکی سرشبان دید بهرام را
✦
بر او دوید از پی نام را
“The head of shepherds saw King Bahram near, / And ran toward him without doubt or fear.”
#12
بدو گفت بهرام کاین گوسفند
✦
که آرد بدین جای ناسودمند
“Then Bahram asked: 'Who brings this endless flock / To such a wild and dangerous pasture rock?'”
#13
بدو سرشبان گفت کای شهریار
✦
ز گیتی من آیم بدین مرغزار
“The head shepherd replied: 'O sovereign King, / I come to graze them near this mountain spring.'”
#14
همین گوسفندان گوهرفروش
✦
به دشت اندر آوردم از کوه دوش
“'These sheep of precious wealth I brought last night, / Down from the mountain to the plain in sight.'”
#15
توانگر خداوند این گوسفند
✦
بپیچد همی از نهیب گزند
“'The wealthy master of this noble herd / Doth fear no harm, of danger not a word.'”
#16
به خروار با نامور گوهرست
✦
همان زر و سیمست و هم زیورست
“'He owns great loads of jewels, famed and rare, / With gold and silver and ornaments fair.'”
#17
ندارد جز از دختری چنگ‌زن
✦
سر جعد زلفش شکن بر شکن
“'He hath no heir except a daughter sweet, / Who plays the harp, with curled locks complete.'”
#18
نخواهد جز از دست دختر نبید
✦
کسی مردم پیر ازین سان ندید
“'He takes wine only from his daughter's hand; / None saw so grand an elder in the land.'”
#19
اگر نیستی داد بهرامشاه
✦
مر او را کجا ماندی دستگاه
“'Were not King Bahram's justice over all, / How could such wealth remain within his hall?'”
#20
شهنشاه گیتی نکوشد به زر
✦
همان موبدش نیست بیدادگر
“'The Shahanshah desires no golden prize, / Nor is his high priest unjust or unwise.'”
#21
نگویی مرا کاین ددان ار که کشت
✦
که او را خدای جهان باد پشت
“'Pray tell me who has slain these fierce beasts two? / May God Almighty be his champion true!'”
#22
بدو گفت بهرام کاین هر دو شیر
✦
تبه شد به پیکان مرد دلیر
“Said Bahram: 'Both these lions met their end / Beneath a brave hero's arrow, my friend.'”
#23
چو شیران جنگی بکشت او برفت
✦
سواری سرافراز با یار هفت
“'When he had slain the lions, off he rode, / A noble knight with seven friends abroad.'”
#24
کجا باشد ایوان گوهرفروش
✦
پدیدار کن راه و بر ما مپوش
“'Where stands the jewel-seller's palace grand? / Show us the path across this open land.'”
#25
بدو سرشبان گفت ز ایدر برو
✦
دهی تازه پیش اندر آیدت نو
“The head shepherd replied: 'Go straight this way, / A vibrant village lies in full display.'”
#26
به شهر آید آواز زان جایگاه
✦
به نزدیکی کاخ بهرامشاه
“'Voices from town will reach thy listening ear, / Hard by the palace of King Bahram dear.'”
#27
چو گردون بپوشد حریر سیاه
✦
به جشن آید آن مرد با دستگاه
“'When heaven clothes itself in black silk veil, / That wealthy man holds feasts that never fail.'”
#28
گر ایدونک باشدت لختی درنگ
✦
به گوش آیدت نوش و آواز چنگ
“'If thou shouldst linger there a little while, / The sound of harp and wine shall thee beguile.'”
#29
چو بشنید بهرام بالای خواست
✦
یکی جامهٔ خسرو آرای خواست
“When Bahram heard, he called for high attire, / A royal robe suited to his desire.”
#30
جدا شد ز دستور وز لشکرش
✦
همانا پر از آرزو شد سرش
“He left his minister and troops behind; / With longing and desire was filled his mind.”
#31
چنین گفت با موبدان روزبه
✦
که اکنون شود شاه ایران به ده
“Thus Rouzbeh to the priest council spake: / 'The Shah of Iran now his way doth take.'”
#32
نشیند بدان خان گوهر فروش
✦
همه سوی گفتار دارید گوش
“'He settles in the jewel-seller's home; / Give ear to all the words that from him come.'”
#33
بخواهد همان دخترش از پدر
✦
نهد بی‌گمان بر سرش تاج زر
“'He surely will demand the daughter fair, / And place a golden crown upon her hair.'”
#34
نیابد همی سیری از خفت و خیز
✦
شب تیره زو جفت گیرد گریز
“'He never tires of love and nocturnal delight; / From him the dark night flees in swift flight.'”
#35
شبستان مر او را فزون از صد است
✦
شهنشاه زین‌سان که باشد بد است
“'His inner palace holds a hundred wives and more; / For such a Shah, tis ill to keep this store.'”
#36
کنون نه صد و سی زن از مهتران
✦
همه بر سران افسر از گوهران
“'Now nine hundred and thirty noble dames / Wear jewel-studded crowns of royal names.'”
#37
ابا یاره و تاج و با تخت زر
✦
درفشان ز دیبای رومی گهر
“With armlets, crowns, and thrones of golden grace, / Wrapped in silk brocades of Byzantine lace.”
#38
شمردست خادم به مشکوی شاه
✦
کزیشان یکی نیست بی‌دستگاه
“The eunuch counted all the courtly fair: / Not one is lacking wealth or treasure rare.”
#39
همی باژ خواهد ز هر مرز و بوم
✦
به سالی پریشان رود باژ روم
“He levies tribute from each realm and domain; / Yearly Rome sends its wealth across the plain.”
#40
دریغ آن بر و کتف و بالای شاه
✦
دریغ آن رخ مجلس آرای شاه
“Alas for such a chest and royal height! / Alas for such a face that warms the night!”
#41
نبیند چنو کس به بالای و زور
✦
به یک تیر بر هم بدوزد دو گور
“None sees his equal in both strength and height; / With one arrow he transfixes two wild onagers in flight.”
#42
تبه گردد از خفت و خیز زنان
✦
به زودی شود سست چون پرنیان
“Yet all this power decays in women's bed; / Tis weakened fast as silk threads softly spread.”
#43
کند دیده تاریک و رخساره زرد
✦
به تن سست گردد به لب لاژورد
“The eye grows dim, the cheeks turn pale and dry; / The body weakens, blue lips softly sigh.”
#44
ز بوی زنان موی گردد سپید
✦
سپیدی کند در جهان ناامید
“From scent of women hair turns snowy white, / And whiteness brings despair in worldly light.”
#45
جوان را شود گوژ بالای راست
✦
ز کار زنان چندگونه بلاست
“A young man's upright stature bends in twain; / From women's charms arise full many a pain.”
#46
به یک ماه یک بار آمیختن
✦
گر افزون بود خون بود ریختن
“To unite but once in a month is wise; if it exceeds this, it is as shedding one's own blood.”
#47
همین بار از بهر فرزند را
✦
بباید جوان خردمند را
“A wise young man should engage in intimacy only for the sake of bringing forth a child.”
#48
چو افزون کنی کاهش افزون کند
✦
ز سستی تن مرد بی‌خون کند
“For if you exceed this, depletion increases, leaving a man's body weak and bloodless.”
#49
برفتند گویان به ایوان شاه
✦
یکی گفت خورشید گم کرد راه
“Talking thus, they walked toward the royal hall, as one remarked, 'The sun has lost its path!'”
#50
شب تیره‌گون رفت بهرام گور
✦
پرستنده یک تن ز بهر ستور
“In the dark of night, Bahram Gur set out, accompanied by a single attendant to tend his steed.”
#51
چو آواز چنگ اندر آمد به گوش
✦
بشد شاه تا خان گوهر فروش
“When the sound of the harp reached his ear, the king went toward the house of the jewel-merchant.”
#52
همی تاخت باره به آواز چنگ
✦
سوی خان بازارگان بی‌درنگ
“He spurred his mount toward the melody of the harp, riding without delay unto the merchant's abode.”
#53
بزد حلقه را بر در و بار خواست
✦
خداوند خورشید را یار خواست
“He knocked on the door ring, requesting entry, calling upon the Lord of the sun for aid.”
#54
پرستندهٔ مهربان گفت کیست
✦
زدن در شب تیره از بهر چیست
“The kind servant asked from inside, 'Who is there? Why knock at the door in the pitch-black night?'”
#55
چنین داد پاسخ که شبگیر شاه
✦
بیامد سوی دشت نخچیرگاه
“He replied, 'At dawn the king came to the hunting plain...'”
#56
بلنگید در زیر من بارگی
✦
ازو بازگشتم به بیچارگی
“'...and my steed went lame beneath me, leaving me to turn back in helpless distress.'”
#57
چنین اسپ و زرین ستامی به کوی
✦
بدزدد کسی من شوم چاره‌جوی
“'If someone steals such a horse with a golden bridle in the street, I shall be left ruined and desperate.'”
#58
بیامد کنیزک به دهقان بگفت
✦
که مردی همی خواهد از ما نهفت
“The maiden went and told the master, 'A man seeks shelter with us in secret.'”
#59
همی گوید اسپی به زرین ستام
✦
بدزدند از ایدر شود کار خام
“'He says he fears his gold-bridled horse will be stolen here, ruining his situation.'”
#60
چنین داد پاسخ که بگشای در
✦
به بهرام گفت اندر آی ای پسر
“The host replied, 'Open the door!' and called to Bahram, 'Come inside, my son!'”
#61
چو شاه اندر آمد چنان جای دید
✦
پرستنده هر جای برپای دید
“As the king entered, he beheld a splendid place with servants standing attentively everywhere.”
#62
چنین گفت کای دادگر یک خدای
✦
به خوبی توی بنده را رهنمای
“He said in his heart, 'O Just and Almighty God, You are the benevolent guide to Your servant.'”
#63
مبادا جز از داد آیین من
✦
مباد آز و گردنکشی دین من
“'May my way of life be nothing but justice, and may greed and pride never be my creed.'”
#64
همه کار و کردار من داد باد
✦
دل زیردستان به ما شاد باد
“'Let all my deeds be founded on justice, and let the hearts of my subjects be joyful through me.'”
#65
گر افزون شود دانش و داد من
✦
پس از مرگ روشن بود یاد من
“'If my wisdom and justice increase, my memory shall shine brightly long after death.'”
#66
همه زیردستان چو گوهرفروش
✦
بمانند با نالهٔ چنگ و نوش
“'So that all my subjects, like this jewel-merchant, may abide in peace amidst harp song and wine.'”
#67
چو آمد به بالای ایوان رسید
✦
ز در دختر میزبان را بدید
“As he reached the upper hall of the palace, he saw the host's daughter standing at the doorway.”
#68
چو دهقان ورا دید بر پای خاست
✦
بیامد خم آورد بالای راست
“When the master saw him, he rose to his feet, approached, and bowed his upright stature in respect.”
#69
بدو گفت شب بر تو فرخنده باد
✦
همه بدسگالان ترا بنده باد
“He said to him, 'May this night be blessed for you, and may all your ill-wishers become your servants!'”
#70
نهالی بیفگند و مسند نهاد
✦
ز دیدار او میزبان گشت شاد
“He laid down a fine rug and set a cushion; the host was gladdened by the sight of his guest.”
#71
گرانمایه خوانی بیاورد زود
✦
برو خوردنیها ازان سان که بود
“Soon he brought a precious banquet spread, laden with all available feast delicacies.”
#72
بیامد یکی مرد مهترپرست
✦
بفرمود تا اسپ او را ببست
“A noble-minded servant arrived, and the host ordered him to tether the guest's horse.”
#73
پرستنده را نیز خوان خواستند
✦
یکی جای دیگر بیاراستند
“They ordered a feast spread for the attendant as well, preparing another suitable place for him.”
#74
همان میزبان را یکی زیرگاه
✦
نهادند و بنشست نزدیک شاه
“A seat was likewise prepared for the host, and he sat down close to the king.”
#75
به پوزش بیاراست پس میزبان
✦
به بهرام گفت ای گو مرزبان
“Then the host offered hospitable apologies, saying to Bahram, 'O valiant chieftain...'”
#76
توی میهمان اندرین خان من
✦
فدای تو بادا تن و جان من
“'...You are the guest in this house of mine; may my body and soul be sacrificed for you!'”
#77
بدو گفت بهرام تیره شبان
✦
که یابد چنین تازه‌رو میزبان
“Bahram replied, 'In the dark of night, who can find such a cheerful and gracious host?'”
#78
چو نان خورده شد جام باید گرفت
✦
به خواب خوش آرام باید گرفت
“'Now that bread is eaten, the wine goblet should be taken, and then one must rest in sweet sleep.'”
#79
به یزدان نباید بود ناسپاس
✦
دل ناسپاسان بود پرهراس
“'One must not be ungrateful to God, for the heart of the ungrateful is ever filled with fear.'”
#80
کنیزک ببرد آبه دستان و تشت
✦
ز دیدار مهمان همی خیره گشت
“The maiden brought the pitcher and basin for washing hands, left spellbound by the guest's noble countenance.”
#81
چو شد دست شسته می و جام خواست
✦
به می رامش و نام و آرام خواست
“When hands were washed, he called for wine and cup, seeking delight, renown, and calm within the draught.”
#82
کنیزک بیاورد جامی نبید
✦
می سرخ و جام و گل و شنبلید
“A maiden brought a goblet filled with wine—red nectar, golden goblet, rose, and clover blooming fine.”
#83
بیازید دهقان به جام از نخست
✦
بخورد و به مشک و گلابش بشست
“The rural host first reached to take the goblet up, drank of the wine, then washed it clean with rosewater and musk.”
#84
به بهرام داد آن دلارای جام
✦
بدو گفت میخواره را چیست نام
“He offered Bahram then that heart-attracting cup, and asked, 'What is the name of him who drinks this cup?'”
#85
هم‌اکنون بدین با تو پیمان کنم
✦
به بهرام شاهت گروگان کنم
“'Right now I pledge with you upon this wine, and pledge my faith unto King Bahram divine.'”
#86
فراوان بخندید زو شهریار
✦
بدو گفت نامم گشسپ سوار
“The monarch laughed aloud at his sincere accord, and said to him, 'My name is Gashasp, the warrior knight.'”
#87
من ایدر به آواز چنگ آمدم
✦
نه از بهر جای درنگ آمدم
“'I entered here drawn solely by the lute's soft sound, not seeking long to linger on this humble ground.'”
#88
بدو میزبان گفت کاین دخترم
✦
همی به آسمان اندر آرد سرم
“The host replied to him, 'Behold this child of mine, who lifts my head in pride unto the heavens divine.”
#89
همو میگسارست و هم چنگ‌زن
✦
همان چامه گویست و لشکر شکن
“She pours the wine and plays the harp with graceful skill; she sings sweet songs and holds a army's heart at will.'”
#90
دلارام را آرزو نام بود
✦
همو میگسار و دلارام بود
“The charming maiden bore the sweet name Arezoo; a heart's delight was she, and faithful cupbearer too.”
#91
به سرو سهی گفت بردار چنگ
✦
به پیش گشسپ آی با بوی و رنگ
“He bade the cypress-stature maiden, 'Take the lute! Advance to knight Gashasp in perfume and allure!'”
#92
بیامد بر پادشا چنگ زن
✦
خرامان بسان بت برهمن
“The harpist fair approached the presence of the king, swaying in grace like idols that the Brahmans sing.”
#93
به بهرام گفت ای گزیده سوار
✦
به هر چیز مانندهٔ شهریار
“She said to Bahram, 'O noble knight of fame, who in all royal traits resembles kings in name,”
#94
چنان دان که این خانه بر سور تست
✦
پدر میزبانست و گنجور تست
“Know well this house is spread for your celebratory feast; my father is your host, treasurer to say the least.”
#95
شبان سیه بر تو فرخنده باد
✦
سرت برتر از ابر بارنده باد
“May this dark night bring blessings upon your royal head, and may your crown reach higher than rain-clouds overhead.'”
#96
بدو گفت بنشین و بردار چنگ
✦
یکی چامه باید مرا بی‌درنگ
“He answered her, 'Be seated now and take your lyre; recite a song for me without delay, my wish desire.'”
#97
شود ماهیار ایدر امشب جوان
✦
گروگان کند پیش مهمان روان
“'Tonight Mahyar grows young again within his hearth, pledging his very soul to welcome your high worth.'”
#98
زن چنگ‌زن چنگ در بر گرفت
✦
نخستین خروش مغان درگرفت
“The harpist held the lyre tightly to her chest, and struck the ancient melodies of Magi priests at best.”
#99
دگر چامه را باب خود ماهیار
✦
تو گفتی بنالد همی چنگ زار
“Another song she sang to honor her father Mahyar; you'd say the harp itself wept mournfully afar.”
#100
چو رود بریشم سخن‌گوی گشت
✦
همه خانهٔ وی سمن بوی گشت
“When strings of silk began to sing their melody, the house was filled with scent of jasmine sweet and free.”
#101
پدر را چنین گفت کای ماهیار
✦
چو سرو سهی بر لب جویبار
“She sang unto her sire, 'O Mahyar, fair and tall, like to a cypress standing by the streamlet's wall,”
#102
چو کافور کرده سر مشکبوی
✦
زبان گرم‌گوی و دل آزرم جوی
“Whose musky hair turns white like camphor on his head, warm-tongued in speech and seeking modest grace instead.”
#103
همیشه بداندیشت آزرده باد
✦
به دانش روان تو پرورده باد
“May your malicious foes be ever grieved and pained, and may your soul through wisdom constantly be trained.'”
#104
توی چون فریدون آزاده خوی
✦
منم چون پرستار نام آرزوی
“'You are noble in your nature as Fereydoun of old, while I am but a maid named Arezoo, I'm told.”
#105
ز مهمان چنان شاد گشتم که شاه
✦
به جنگ ا ندرون چیره بیند سپاه
“I am so joyful for this guest, as when a king beholds his army triumphant in battle's ring.'”
#106
چو این گفته شد سوی مهمان گذشت
✦
ابا چامه و چنگ نالان گذشت
“When she had sung these words, she stepped toward the guest, singing her plaintive song with harp held to her breast.”
#107
به مهمان چنین گفت کای شاه‌فش
✦
بلنداختر و یک‌دل و کینه‌کش
“She said unto the guest, 'O kingly hero bold, high-starred and single-hearted, avenger true of old!”
#108
کسی کو ندیدست بهرام را
✦
خنیده سوار دلارام را
“Whoever has not seen King Bahram face to face—the famed and glorious rider of heart-soothing grace—”
#109
نگه کرد باید به روی تو بس
✦
جز او را نمانی ز لشکر به کس
“Need only gaze upon your visage bright and grand; for save the king, you rival none in all the land.”
#110
میانت چو غروست و بالا چو سرو
✦
خرامان شده سرو همچون تذرو
“Your waist is slim as reed, your stature tall as tree, a walking cypress moving like a pheasant free.”
#111
به دل نره شیر و به تن ژنده پیل
✦
بناورد خشت افگنی بر دو میل
“A fierce lion in your heart, an elephant in force, who hurls a heavy javelin two miles upon his course.”
#112
رخانت به گلنار ماند درست
✦
تو گویی به می برگ گل را بشست
“Your cheeks resemble pomegranate flowers in bloom; as though rose petals washed in wine disperse gloom.”
#113
دو بازو به کردار ران هیون
✦
به پای اندر آری که بیستون
“Your arms are like the sturdy thighs of camels strong; you could tear down Mount Bisotun before too long.”
#114
تو آنی کجا چشم کس چون تو مرد
✦
ندید و نبیند به روز نبرد
“You are a warrior such as no man's eye has seen, nor ever shall behold upon the battle green.”
#115
تن آرزو خاک پای تو باد
✦
همه‌ساله زنده برای تو باد
“May Arezoo's own body be dust beneath your feet, and may she live forever to serve your throne complete.'”
#116
جهاندار ازان چامه و چنگ اوی
✦
ز دیدار و بالا و آهنگ اوی
“The ruler of the world was enchanted by her song and harp, her graceful posture, her fair face, and her melodious tune.”
#117
بروبر ازان گونه شد مبتلا
✦
که گفتی دلش گشت گنج بلا
“His heart became so deeply enthralled by her that one would say it had turned into a treasury of passionate desire.”
#118
چو در پیش او مست شد ماهیار
✦
چنین گفت با میزبان شهریار
“When Mahyar grew wine-muddled in his presence, the monarch addressed his host with these words:”
#119
که دختر به من ده به آیین و دین
✦
چو خواهی که یابی به داد آفرین
“"Give me your daughter according to noble custom and faith, if you wish to be praised by the Creator for your fairness."”
#120
چنین گفت با آرزو ماهیار
✦
کزین شیردل چند خواهی نثار
“Mahyar then asked Arezoo: "How much dowry and gold do you desire from this lion-hearted knight?"”
#121
نگه کن بدو تا پسند آیدت
✦
بر آسودگی سودمند آیدت
“"Look well upon him to see if he pleases your heart, and whether sharing a quiet life with him brings you joy."”
#122
چنین گفت با ماهیار آرزوی
✦
که ای باب آزاده و نیک خوی
“Arezoo replied to Mahyar: "O noble and good-natured father of mine,”
#123
مرا گر همی داد خواهی به کس
✦
همالم گشسپ سوارست و بس
“"If you intend to give my hand to anyone, Goshasp the Knight alone is my equal and desire."”
#124
تو گویی به بهرام ماند همی
✦
چو جانست و با او نشستن دمی
“"You would say he resembles King Bahram; he is precious as life, and even a brief moment beside him is a precious gift."”
#125
به گفتار دختر بسنده نکرد
✦
به بهرام گفت ای سوار نبرد
“Mahyar contented not himself with his daughter's words alone, but turned to Bahram and said: "O warrior knight,”
#126
به ژرفی نگه کن سراپای اوی
✦
همان دانش و کوشش و رای اوی
“"Observe her closely from head to toe, and weigh her wisdom, diligence, and prudent mind."”
#127
نگه کن بدو تا پسند تو هست
✦
ازو آگهی بهترست ار نشست
“"Look closely upon her to be sure she meets your approval; knowing her character is far better than merely sitting together."”
#128
بدین نیکوی نیز درویش نیست
✦
به گفتن مرا رای کم‌بیش نیست
“"Along with such beauty, she lacks no virtue or mind; I have no wish to speak more or less than the truth."”
#129
اگر بشمری گوهر ماهیار
✦
فزون آید از بدرهٔ شهریار
“"If you reckon the noble lineage of Mahyar, its worth exceeds even the monarch's treasury of gold."”
#130
گر او را همی بایدت جام‌گیر
✦
مکن سرسری امشب آرام‌گیر
“"If you desire her to be your cup-bearer and companion, act not in haste; take your rest tonight."”
#131
به مستی بزرگان نبستند بند
✦
به ویژه کسی کو بود ارجمند
“"The noble do not seal the bond of marriage in drunkenness, especially one who is honored and esteemed."”
#132
بمان تا برآرد سپهر آفتاب
✦
سر نامداران برآید ز خواب
“"Wait until the heavens bring forth the sun, and the heads of illustrious men arise from sleep."”
#133
بیاریم پیران داننده را
✦
شکیبا دل و چیز خواننده را
“"Then we shall bring wise, experienced elders—patient-hearted men who know the holy rites."”
#134
شب تیره از رسم بیرون بود
✦
نه آیین شاه آفریدون بود
“"To contract this in the dark of night is beyond proper custom; it was never the tradition of King Fereydun."”
#135
نه فرخ بود مست زن خواستن
✦
وگر نیز کاری نو آراستن
“"It is not auspicious to seek a bride while intoxicated, nor to start a new chapter under such spirits."”
#136
بدو گفت بهرام کاین بیهده‌ست
✦
زدن فال بد رای و راه بد است
“Bahram answered him: "This is vain talk! Casting bad omens is a flawed judgment and an evil path."”
#137
پسند منست امشب این چنگ‌زن
✦
تو این فال بد تا توانی مزن
“"This harp-player pleases me tonight; cease casting such ill omens as far as you are able."”
#138
چنین گفت با دخترش آرزوی
✦
پسندیدی او را به گفتار و خوی
“Then Mahyar spoke to his daughter Arezoo: "Do you approve of his speech, his mind, and his character?"”
#139
بدو گفت آری پسندیده‌ام
✦
به جان و به دل هست چون دیده‌ام
“She answered him: "Yes, I have chosen him; in my heart and soul, he is as precious to me as my very eyes."”
#140
بکن کار زان پس به یزدان سپار
✦
نه گردون به جنگست با ماهیار
“"Perform the deed and entrust it to God, for fate is not at war with Mahyar."”
#141
بدو گفت کاکنون تو جفت ویی
✦
چنان دان که اندر نهفت ویی
“He said to her: "Now you are his wedded partner; consider yourself under his loving care and shelter."”
#142
بدو داد و بهرام گورش بخواست
✦
چو شب روز شد کار او گشت راست
“He gave her hand, and Bahram Gur wedded her; as night turned to day, his wish was brought to fulfillment.”
#143
سوی حجرهٔ خویش رفت آرزوی
✦
سرایش همه خفته بد چار سوی
“Arezoo retired to her private chamber; on all sides of the dwelling, everyone had fallen asleep.”
#144
بیامد به جای دگر ماهیار
✦
همی ساخت کار گشسپ سوار
“Mahyar went to another place, meticulously making preparations for Goshasp the Knight.”
#145
پرستنده را گفت درها ببند
✦
یکی را بتاز از پس گوسفند
“He instructed the servant: "Shut the doors, and send someone in haste to fetch a lamb."”
#146
نباید که آرند خوان بی‌بره
✦
بره نیز پرورده باید سره
“"It must not be that a meal is served without lamb, and the lamb itself must be well-reared and prime."”
#147
چو بیدار گردد فقاع و یخ آر
✦
همی باش پیش گشسپ سوار
“"When he awakens, bring cool drinks and ice, and stand attentively ready before Goshasp the Knight."”
#148
یکی جام کافور بر با گلاب
✦
چنان کن که بویا بود جای خواب
“"Bring a vessel of camphor blended with rosewater, and make the bedchamber sweetly fragrant."”
#149
من از جام می همچنانم که دوش
✦
نتابد می این پیر گوهر فروش
“"I am still heavy from last night's wine; this old jewel-merchant can endure no more drinking."”
#150
بگفت این و چادر به سر برکشید
✦
تن‌آسانی و خواب در بر کشید
“Saying this, he pulled the blanket over his head and embraced sweet comfort and sleep.”
#151
چو خورشید تابنده بفراخت تاج
✦
زمین شد به کردار دریای عاج
“When the radiant sun raised its glittering crown, the earth turned as white as a sea of ivory.”
#152
پرستنده تازانه شهریار
✦
بیاویخت از خانهٔ ماهیار
“The monarch's attendant hung the royal whip outside Mahyar's dwelling.”
#153
سپه را ز سالار گردنکشان
✦
بجستند زان تازیانه نشان
“The troops sought the trace of their exalted commander by searching for that whip.”
#154
سپاه انجمن شد به درگاه بر
✦
کجا همچنان بر در شاه‌بر
“The host gathered together at the threshold, right before the doorway of the king.”
#155
هرانکس که تازانه دانست باز
✦
برفتند و بردند پیشش نماز
“All who recognized the whip stepped forward and paid homage before it.”
#156
چو دربان بدید آن سپاه‌گران
✦
کمردار بسیار و ژوپین وران
“When the doorkeeper beheld that formidable army of girded warriors and spear-bearers,”
#157
بیامد بر خفته برسان گرد
✦
سر پیر از خواب بیدار کرد
“He ran like dust to the sleeping master and woke the old man from his slumber.”
#158
بدو گفت برخیز و بگشای دست
✦
نه هنگام خوابست و جای نشست
“He said to him: 'Rise up and make ready! This is no time for sleep or sitting idle!'”
#159
که شاه جهانست مهمان تو
✦
بدین بی‌نوا خانه و مان تو
“'For the King of the World is your guest inside this humble home of yours!'”
#160
یکایک دل مرد گوهرفروش
✦
ز گفتار دربان برآمد به جوش
“Instantly the heart of the jewel-merchant seethed with agitation at the porter's words.”
#161
بدو گفت کاین را چه گویی همی
✦
پی شهریاران چه جویی همی
“He said to him: 'What nonsense is this you speak? Why do you trace the steps of kings?'”
#162
همان چو ز گوینده بشنید مست
✦
خروشان ازانجای برپای جست
“Yet as the intoxicated old man heard the speaker, he sprang up shouting from his place.”
#163
ز دربان برآشفت و گفت این سخن
✦
نگوید خردمند مرد کهن
“He grew angry at the porter and said: 'A wise, experienced man would never speak such words!'”
#164
پرستنده گفت ای جهاندیده مرد
✦
ترا بر زمین شاه ایران که کرد
“The servant replied: 'O wise elder! Who brought the King of Iran unto your land?'”
#165
بیامد پرستنده هنگام روز
✦
که پیدا نبد هور گیتی فروز
“'The royal retainer came at dawn, before the world-illuminating sun had yet appeared,'”
#166
یکی تازیانه به زر تافته
✦
به هرجای گوهر برو بافته
“'Carrying a whip woven with gold and studded everywhere with precious gems,'”
#167
بیاویخت از پیش درگاه ما
✦
بدان سو که باشد گذرگاه ما
“'He hung it right before our gateway, along the path where we pass.'”
#168
ز دربان چو بشنید یکسر سخن
✦
بپیچید بیدار مرد کهن
“When the ancient man heard the full story from the porter, he trembled in sudden wakefulness,”
#169
که من دوش پیش شهنشاه مست
✦
چرا بودم و دخترم می پرست
“Thinking: 'Why was I drunk last night before the King of kings, while my daughter poured the wine?'”
#170
بیامد سوی حجرهٔ آرزوی
✦
بدو گفت کای ماه آزاده‌خوی
“He hurried to Arezoo's chamber and said: 'O moon of noble nature,'”
#171
شهنشاه بهرام بود آنک دوش
✦
بیامد سوی خان گوهرفروش
“'It was Shahanshah Bahram who came last night to the home of the jewel-merchant!'”
#172
همی آمد از دشت نخچیرگاه
✦
عنان تافتست از کهن دژ به راه
“'He was returning from the hunt, having turned his reins along the road from the ancient fortress.'”
#173
کنون خیز و دیبای چینی بپوش
✦
بنه بر سر افسر چنان هم که دوش
“'Now rise, put on your Chinese silk, and place the crown upon your head just as last night.'”
#174
نثارش کن از گوهر شاهوار
✦
سه یاقوت سرخ از در شهریار
“'Shower royal pearls upon him, and present three red rubies worthy of a king.'”
#175
چو بینی رخ شاه خورشیدفش
✦
دو تایی برو دست کرده بکش
“'When you behold the sun-like face of the king, bow low before him with folded hands.'”
#176
مبین مر ورا چشم در پیش دار
✦
ورا چون روان و تن خویش دار
“'Gaze not directly into his eyes; cast your eyes down, and cherish him like your own soul and body.'”
#177
چو پرسدت با او سخن نرم‌گوی
✦
سخنهای با شرم و بازرم گوی
“'If he questions you, speak gently to him, with modesty and reverence in your words.'”
#178
من اکنون نیایم اگر خواندم
✦
به جای پرستنده بنشاندم
“'I shall not come now even if he calls me, for he placed me in the rank of a servant.'”
#179
بسان همالان نشستم به خوان
✦
که اندر تنم خرد باد استخوان
“'I sat at table with him as if we were equals—may the bones in my body be crushed to dust!'”
#180
که من نیز گستاخ گشتم به شاه
✦
به پیر و جوان از می آید گناه
“'For I grew overly bold before the king; indeed, wine brings foolish error to young and old alike.'”
#181
هم‌انگه یکی بنده آمد دوان
✦
که بیدار شد شاه روشن‌روان
“Just then a servant came running to announce: 'The bright-souled king has awakened!'”
#182
چو بیدار شد ایمن و تن‌درست
✦
به باغ اندر آمد سر و تن بشست
“Awakening refreshed and in good health, he entered the garden and washed his face and body.”
#183
نیایش کنان پیش خورشید شد
✦
ز یزدان دلی پر ز امید شد
“He stood in prayer facing the sun, his heart overflowing with hope in God.”
#184
وزانجا بیامد به جای نشست
✦
یکی جام می خواست از می پرست
“Thence he returned to his seat and called upon the cupbearer for a goblet of wine.”
#185
چو از کهتران آگهی یافت شاه
✦
بفرمودشان بازگشتن به راه
“When the king received word of his retinue's arrival, he commanded them to resume their journey.”
#186
بفرمود تا رفت پیش آرزوی
✦
همی بودش از آرزوی آرزوی
“He ordered Arezo to come before him, for in his heart he yearned deeply for her.”
#187
برفت آرزو با می و با نثار
✦
پرستنده با تاج و با گوشوار
“Arezo approached carrying wine and gifts for scattering, dressed like a royal attendant with a crown and earrings.”
#188
دو تا گشت و اندر زمین بوس داد
✦
بخندید زو شاه و برگشت شاد
“She bowed low and kissed the ground before him; the King smiled at her gesture and his heart turned joyful.”
#189
بدو گفت شاه این کجا داشتی
✦
مرا مست کردی و بگذاشتی
“The King said to her, "Where did you hide this beauty? You made me drunk earlier and then departed."”
#190
همان چامه و چنگ ما را بس است
✦
نثار زنان بهر دیگر کس است
“"Your songs and harp playing are enough for us; let the scattering of jewels be left for others."”
#191
بیار آنک گفتی ز نخچیرگاه
✦
ز رزم و سر نیزه و زخم شاه
“"Sing again what you sang of the hunting grounds, of battle, the lance's point, and the King's mighty strike."”
#192
ازان پس بدو گفت گوهرفروش
✦
کجا شد که ما مست گشتیم دوش
“Then he asked the jeweller: "Where did the host go, after we became intoxicated last night?"”
#193
چو بشنید دختر پدر را بخواند
✦
همی از دل شاه خیره بماند
“Hearing this, the daughter called her father, while remaining astonished in her heart by the King's grandeur.”
#194
بیامد پدر دست کرده به کش
✦
به پیش شهنشاه خورشیدفش
“The father came forward with arms crossed reverently, standing before the sun-like King of Kings.”
#195
بدو گفت شاها ردا بخردا
✦
بزرگا سترگا گوا موبدا
“He addressed him: "O King! Wise, great, mighty hero, and priest of priests!"”
#196
کسی کو خرد دارد و باهشی
✦
نباید گزیدن جز از خامشی
“"Whosoever possesses wisdom and prudence should choose naught but silence before the King."”
#197
ز نادانی آمد گنهکاریم
✦
گمانم که دیوانه پنداریم
“"My fault stemmed from ignorance; I fear you might deem me a foolish madman."”
#198
سزد گر ببخشی گناه مرا
✦
درفشان کنی روز و ماه مرا
“"It would be worthy if you forgive my sin and illuminate the days and months of my life."”
#199
منم بر درت بندهٔ بی‌خرد
✦
شهنشاهم از بخردان نشمرد
“"I am but an unwise servant at your threshold; may the King of Kings not hold me among the sensible."”
#200
چنین داد پاسخ که از مرد مست
✦
خردمند چیزی نگیرد به دست
“Bahram replied, "A wise person never holds a drunken man accountable for his actions or words."”
#201
کسی را که می انده آرد به روی
✦
نباید که یابد ز می رنگ و بوی
“"He who brings sorrow upon his face through wine should never touch or smell the grape."”
#202
به مستی ندیدم ز تو بدخوی
✦
همی ز آرزو این سخن بشنوی
“"In your drunkenness I saw no ill nature; you hear these words now because of my desire for Arezo."”
#203
تو پوزش بران کن که تا چنگ زن
✦
بگوید همان لاله اندر سمن
“"Make your apology by having the harpist sing again, like a tulip blooming amid jasmine."”
#204
بگوید یکی تا بدان می خوریم
✦
پی روز ناآمده نشمریم
“"Let her sing a lay so we may drink wine, without counting the steps of days yet to come."”
#205
زمین بوسه داد آن زمان ماهیار
✦
بیاورد خوان و برآراست کار
“Thereupon Mahyar kissed the ground, brought forth a spread feast, and arranged all things in order.”
#206
بزرگان که بودند بر در به پای
✦
بیاوردشان مرد پاکیزه‌رای
“The pure-minded host invited in the nobles who were waiting respectfully at the door.”
#207
سوی حجرهٔ خویش رفت آرزوی
✦
ز مهمان بیگانه پرچین بَروی
“Arezo retired to her private chamber, frowning slightly to hide her face from strange guests.”
#208
همی بود تا چرخ پوشد سیاه
✦
ستاره پدید آید از گرد ماه
“Thus time passed until the heavens donned black, and stars appeared around the moon.”
#209
چو نان خورده شد آرزو را بخواند
✦
به کرسی زر پیکرش برنشاند
“When the meal was finished, the King summoned Arezo and seated her upon a golden throne.”
#210
بفرمود تا چنگ برداشت ماه
✦
بدان چامه کز پیش فرمود شاه
“He bade that moon-faced maiden take up the harp and play the poem he had commanded before.”
#211
چنین گفت کای شهریار دلیر
✦
که بگذارد از نام تو بیشه شیر
“She sang: "O valiant Sovereign, at the sound of whose name lions flee their thicket!"”
#212
توی شاه پیروز و لشکرشکن
✦
همان رویه چون لاله اندر چمن
“"You are the victorious, army-shattering King, yet your face is like a tulip in a meadow."”
#213
به بالای تو بر زمین شاه نیست
✦
به دیدار تو بر فلک ماه نیست
“"There is no king on earth equal to your stature, nor any moon in heaven to rival your countenance."”
#214
سپاهی که بیند سپاه ترا
✦
به جنگ اندر آوردگاه ترا
“"Any army that beholds your host and witnesses your prowess in the field of battle,"”
#215
بدرد دل و مغزشان از نهیب
✦
بلندی ندانند باز از نشیب
“"Their hearts and minds tear apart from awe, unable to tell height from depth in their panic."”
#216
هم‌انگه چو از باده خرم شدند
✦
ز خردک به جام دمادم شدند
“Thereupon, as they grew merry with wine, they moved from small goblets to continuously brimming cups.”
#217
بیامد بر پادشا روزبه
✦
گزیدند جایی مر او را به ده
“Then Roozbeh arrived before the King, and they chose a fitting place for him in the village.”
#218
بفرمود بهرام خادم چهل
✦
همه ماه‌چهر و همه دلگسل
“Bahram commanded forty moon-faced, heart-captivating maiden servants to be brought.”
#219
رخ رومیان همچو دیبای روم
✦
ازیشان همی تازه شد مرز و بوم
“The Roman maidens' cheeks were like fine brocade of Rum, bringing fresh radiance to the realm.”
#220
بشد آرزو تا به مشکوی شاه
✦
نهاده به سر بر ز گوهر کلاه
“Arezo then departed for the King's royal palace, wearing upon her head a crown woven of precious gems.”
#221
بیامد شهنشاه با روزبه
✦
گشاده‌دل و شاد از ایوان مه
“The King of Kings departed alongside Rouzbeh, lighthearted and joyful, leaving the grand palace hall.”
#222
همی‌راند گویان به مشکوی خویش
✦
به سوی بتان سمن‌بوی خویش
“Conversing merrily, he rode onward toward his royal harem, bound for his jasmine-scented fair maidens.”