#1
چنین گفت موبد که یک روز شاه
✦
به دیبای رومی بیاراست گاه
“Thus said the Mobad: One day the King adorned his throne with fine Roman brocade.”
#2
بیاویخت تاج از بر تخت عاج
✦
همه جای عاج و همه جای تاج
“He hung the crown above the ivory throne, a realm where ivory and crown held sway.”
#3
همه کاخ پر موبد و مرزبان
✦
ز بلخ و ز بامین و ز کرزبان
“The palace was packed with Mobads and border-lords, hailing from Balkh, Bamin, and Karzaban.”
#4
چنین آگهی یافت شاه جهان
✦
ز گفتار بیدار کارآگهان
“Thus did the Ruler of the World learn through the words of his vigilant intelligence officers,”
#5
که آمد فرستادهٔ شاه هند
✦
ابا پیل و چتر و سواران سند
“That an envoy had arrived from the King of Hind, accompanied by elephants, royal parasols, and Sindian horsemen.”
#6
شتروار بارست با او هزار
✦
همی راه جوید بر شهریار
“Bearing a thousand camel-loads of gifts, seeking audience with the Sovereign.”
#7
همانگه چو بشنید بیدار شاه
✦
پذیره فرستاد چندی سپاه
“The moment the alert King heard this news, he sent forth a military escort to meet them.”
#8
چو آمد بر شهریار بزرگ
✦
فرستادهٔ نامدار و سترگ
“When that illustrious and noble envoy arrived before the great Sovereign,”
#9
برسم بزرگان نیایش گرفت
✦
جهان آفرین را ستایش گرفت
“He offered homage after the manner of elders, and praised the Creator of the World.”
#10
گهرکرد بسیار پیشش نثار
✦
یکی چتر و ده پیل با گوشوار
“He scattered countless jewels before the King, presenting a parasol and ten elephants adorned with earrings.”
#11
بیاراسته چتر هندی به زر
✦
بدو بافته چند گونه گهر
“The Indian parasol was decorated with gold and woven with diverse precious gems.”
#12
سر بار بگشاد در بارگاه
✦
بیاورد یک سر همه نزد شاه
“He opened the burdens in the royal court and presented everything before the King.”
#13
فراوان ببار اندرون سیم و زر
✦
چه از مشک و عنبر چه از عود تر
“Abundant silver and gold were within those loads, along with pure musk, ambergris, and fresh aloeswood,”
#14
ز یاقوت والماس وز تیغ هند
✦
همه تیغ هندی سراسر پرند
“Rubies and diamonds, and Indian blades gleaming with damascened patterns,”
#15
ز چیزی که خیزد ز قنوج و رای
✦
زده دست و پای آوریده به جای
“Every manner of rare treasure produced in Kannauj, skillfully crafted and placed before the court.”
#16
ببردند یک سر همه پیش تخت
✦
نگه کرد سالار خورشید بخت
“They brought them all before the throne, and the fortunate ruler cast his gaze upon them.”
#17
ز چیزی که برد اندران رای رنج
✦
فرستاد کسری سراسر به گنج
“Everything that the Ray had painstakingly sent, Khosrow committed to the royal treasury.”
#18
بیاورد پس نامه‌ای بر پرند
✦
نبشته بنوشین‌روان رای هند
“Then he presented a letter written upon silk, inscribed by the Ray of Hind to Anushirvan.”
#19
یکی تخت شطرنج کرده به رنج
✦
تهی کرده از رنج شطرنج گنج
“Along with a chessboard fashioned with immense toil, emptying the royal treasury of effort.”
#20
بیاورد پیغام هندی ز رای
✦
که تا چرخ باشد تو بادی به جای
“He delivered the Indian message from the Ray: "May you endure as long as the heavens rotate!”
#21
کسی کو بدانش برد رنج بیش
✦
بفرمای تا تخت شطرنج پیش
“Order those who claim greater wisdom to set this chessboard before them,”
#22
نهند و ز هر گونه رای آورند
✦
که این نغز بازی به جای آورند
“And bring forth their intellect to execute this fine game correctly.”
#23
بدانند هرمهره‌ای را به نام
✦
که گویند پس خانهٔ او کدام
“Let them identify every piece by name and state which square belongs to each,”
#24
پیاده بدانند و پیل و سپاه
✦
رخ واسب و رفتار فرزین و شاه
“Discerning the moves of Pawn, Elephant, Rook, Horse, Vizier, and King.”
#25
گراین نغز بازی به جای آورند
✦
درین کار پاکیزه رای آورند
“If they can master this exquisite game and apply pure reasoning to it,”
#26
همان باژ و ساوی که فرمودشاه
✦
به خوبی فرستم بران بارگاه
“Then the tribute and tax that the King commanded, I shall send willingly to his court.”
#27
وگر نامداران ایران گروه
✦
ازین دانش آیند یک سر ستوه
“But if the nobles of Iran prove helpless before this knowledge,”
#28
چو با دانش ما ندارند تاو
✦
نخواهند زین بوم و بر باژ و ساو
“And cannot match our wisdom, they should not demand tribute from this land;”
#29
همان باژ باید پذیرفت نیز
✦
که دانش به از نامبردار چیز
“Indeed, they must pay us tribute instead, for wisdom is superior to any renowned possession."”
#30
دل و گوش کسری بگوینده داد
✦
سخنها برو کرد گوینده یاد
“Khosrow gave his full attention to the speaker, listening closely to all he said.”
#31
نهادند شطرنج نزدیک شاه
✦
به مهره درون کرد چندی نگاه
“They placed the chessboard before the King, who gazed intently at the pieces for a time.”
#32
ز تختش یکی مهره از عاج بود
✦
پر از رنگ پیکر دگر ساج بود
“One set of pieces on the board was ivory, while the other set was carved of dark ebony.”
#33
بپرسید ازو شاه پیروزبخت
✦
ازان پیکر ومهره ومشک وتخت
“The victorious King inquired of him concerning the figures, pieces, fragrance, and the board.”
#34
چنین داد پاسخ که ای شهریار
✦
همه رسم و راه از در کارزار
“The envoy replied: "O Sovereign, all its rules reflect the manner of warfare.”
#35
ببینی چویابی به بازیش راه
✦
رخ و پیل و آرایش رزمگاه
“You shall see once you find its path, the Rook, the Elephant, and the array of the battlefield."”
#36
بدو گفت یک هفته ما را زمان
✦
ببازیم هشتم به روشن‌روان
“The King said to him: "Grant us seven days; on the eighth, with enlightened soul, we shall play."”
#37
یکی خرم ایوان بپرداختند
✦
فرستاده را پایگه ساختند
“They prepared a splendid palace hall and accorded high honor to the emissary.”
#38
رد وموبدان نماینده راه
✦
برفتند یک سر به نزدیک شاه
“The noble councillors and Mobads who guided the way went together before the King.”
#39
نهادند پس تخت شطرنج پیش
✦
نگه کرد هریک ز اندازه بیش
“They laid the chessboard before them, and each examined it beyond measure.”
#40
بجستند و هر گونه‌ای ساختند
✦
ز هر دست یکبارش انداختند
“They searched and tried every manner of combination, placing the pieces in diverse ways,”
#41
یکی گفت وپرسید و دیگر شنید
✦
نیاورد کس راه بازی پدید
“One proposed, another listened, yet no one could decipher the true path of the game.”
#42
برفتند یکسر پرآژنگ چهر
✦
بیامد برشاه بوزرجمهر
“They departed all with furrowed brows; then Bozorgmehr came before the King.”
#43
ورا زان سخن نیک ناکام دید
✦
به آغاز آن رنج فرجام دید
“Seeing the Sovereign distressed by this challenge, he foresaw the resolution to this struggle.”
#44
به کسری چنین گفت کای پادشا
✦
جهاندار و بیدار و فرمانروا
“He said to Khosrow: "O King, Ruler of the world, vigilant and sovereign Lord!”
#45
من این نغز بازی به جای آورم
✦
خرد را بدین رهنمای آورم
“I shall master this fine game and make Wisdom the guide upon this path."”
#46
بدو گفت شاه این سخن کارتست
✦
که روشن‌روان بادی وتندرست
“The King said to him: 'This task is yours; may your spirit be ever enlightened and your body healthy!'”
#47
کنون رای قنوج گوید که شاه
✦
ندارد یکی مرد جوینده راه
“'Now the Rajah of Kannauj will claim that the Shah has not a single wise man capable of finding the way.'”
#48
شکست بزرگ است بر موبدان
✦
به در گاه و بر گاه و بر بخردان
“'It would be a severe defeat for our Mobads, at court, upon the throne, and for all our wise men.'”
#49
بیاورد شطرنج بوزرجمهر
✦
پراندیشه بنشست و بگشاد چهر
“Bozorgmehr brought the chess set; thoughtfully he sat down and unclouded his countenance.”
#50
همی‌جست بازی چپ و دست راست
✦
همی‌راند تا جای هریک کجاست
“He explored the moves to the left and to the right, steering the pieces to discern where each belonged.”
#51
به یک روز و یک شب چو بازیش یافت
✦
از ایوان سوی شاه ایران شتافت
“When in a single day and night he unlocked its secret, he hastened from his quarters to the Shah of Iran.”
#52
بدو گفت کای شاه پیروزبخت
✦
نگه کردم این مهره و مشک و تخت
“He said to him: 'O victorious King! I have contemplated these pieces, the musk-scented board, and its layout.'”
#53
به خوبی همه بازی آمد به جای
✦
به بخت بلند جهان کدخدای
“'Through the exalted fortune of the world's lord, the game has been completely and masterfully solved.'”
#54
فرستادهٔ شاه را پیش خواه
✦
کسی را که دارند ما را نگاه
“'Summon the envoy of the Rajah, along with those who keep watch over our assembly.'”
#55
شهنشاه باید که بیند نخست
✦
یکی رزمگاهست گویی درست
“'The King of kings himself must behold it first, for it is in truth an exact mirror of a battlefield.'”
#56
ز گفتار او شاد شد شهریار
✦
ورا نیک پی خواند و به روزگار
“The Sovereign was overjoyed by his words; he declared him blessed of foot and a gift to the era.”
#57
بفرمود تا موبدان و ردان
✦
برفتند با نامور بخردان
“He commanded the Mobads and noble chieftains to gather together with the renowned sages.”
#58
فرستاده رای را پیش خواند
✦
بران نامور پیشگاهش نشاند
“He summoned the Rajah's envoy forward and seated him in an exalted place of honor.”
#59
بدو گفت گوینده بوزرجمهر
✦
که ای موبد رای خورشید چهر
“Bozorgmehr the eloquent addressed him, saying: 'O sun-visaged priest of the Rajah!'”
#60
ازین مهرها رای با توچه گفت
✦
که همواره با توخرد باد جفت
“'What did the Rajah tell you regarding these pieces? May wisdom ever be your companion!'”
#61
چنین داد پاسخ که فرخنده‌رای
✦
چو از پیش او من برفتم ز جای
“The envoy replied: 'When I, of auspicious intent, departed from his presence,'”
#62
مرا گفت کین مهرهٔ ساج و عاج
✦
ببر پیش تخت خداوند تاج
“'He said to me: "Take these pieces of teak and ivory before the throne of the crowned Master;"'”
#63
بگویش که با موبد و رای‌زن
✦
بنه پیش و بنشان یکی انجمن
“'"Tell him to lay them before his priests and counselors, and convene an assembly of the wise;"'”
#64
گر این نغز بازی به جای آورند
✦
پسندیده و دلربای آورند
“'"If they can solve this subtle game and present its proper and delightful arrangement,"'”
#65
همین بدره و برده و باژ و ساو
✦
فرستیم چندانک داریم تاو
“'"We shall send these purses, slaves, tribute, and tax as long as our strength endures."'”
#66
و گر شاه و فرزانگان این به جای
✦
نیارند روشن ندارند رای
“'"But if the Shah and his sages fail to unlock it, showing lack of an enlightened mind,"'”
#67
نباید که خواهد ز ما باژ و گنج
✦
دریغ آیدش جان دانا به رنج
“'"He must no longer demand tribute and treasure from us, nor grudge putting a wise man's soul to pain."'”
#68
چو بیند دل و رای باریک ما
✦
فزونتر فرستد به نزدیک ما
“'"When he beholds our subtle mind and discernment, he should rather send tribute unto us!"'”
#69
برتخت آن شاه بیداربخت
✦
بیاورد و بنهاد شطرنج وتخت
“Before the throne of the vigilant King, he brought forth and set down the chess board and its pieces.”
#70
چنین گفت با موبدان و ردان
✦
که‌ای نامور پاک دل بخردان
“Bozorgmehr addressed the Mobads and nobles: 'O renowned, pure-hearted sages!'”
#71
همه گوش دارید گفتار اوی
✦
هم آن را هشیار سالار اوی
“'Listen all of you to his words, and to what his prudent master has decreed.'”
#72
بیاراست دانا یکی رزمگاه
✦
به قلب اندرون ساخته جای شاه
“The wise sage set up a battlefield, placing the King in the very center of the host.”
#73
چپ و راست صف برکشیده سوار
✦
پیاده به پیش اندرون نیزه دار
“Cavalry lined up on the left and right, with spear-bearing infantry positioned in front.”
#74
هشیوار دستور در پیش شاه
✦
به رزم اندرونش نماینده راه
“The prudent minister stood before the King, guiding his path through the heart of battle.”
#75
مبارز که اسب افگند بر دو روی
✦
به دست چپش پیل پرخاشجوی
“The champion steed moving in two directions, and on its left side the war-eager elephant.”
#76
وزو برتر اسبان جنگی به پای
✦
بدان تاکه آید به بالای رای
“And beyond them stood the war-horses ready, deployed according to a well-calculated strategy.”
#77
چو بوزرجمهر آن سپه را براند
✦
همه انجمن درشگفتی بماند
“As Bozorgmehr maneuvered that army, the entire assembly remained lost in utter amazement.”
#78
غمی شد فرستادهٔ هند سخت
✦
بماند اندر آن کار هشیار بخت
“The envoy of India grew deeply grieved and stood bewildered at the work of the fortunate sage.”
#79
شگفت اندرو مرد جادو بماند
✦
دلش را به اندیشه اندر نشاند
“That cunning emissary was spellbound with wonder, his heart plunged into deep contemplation.”
#80
که این تخت شطرنج هرگز ندید
✦
نه از کاردانان هندی شنید
“For Bozorgmehr had never seen this chess board before, nor heard of it from the experts of India.”
#81
چگونه فراز آمدش رای این
✦
به گیتی نگیرد کسی جای این
“"How did such an idea come to his mind? No one in all the world can take his place!"”
#82
چنان گشت کسری ز بوزرجمهر
✦
که گفتی بدوبخت بنمود چهر
“Kasra became so delighted with Bozorgmehr that one would say Fortune itself had shown its face to him.”
#83
یکی جام فرمود پس شهریار
✦
که کردند پرگوهر شاهوار
“Then the King ordered a goblet to be brought, which they filled with royal jewels.”
#84
یکی بدره دینار واسبی به زین
✦
بدو داد و کردش بسی آفرین
“He granted him a purse of gold coins and a saddled horse, bestowing upon him countless praises.”
#85
بشد مرد دانا به آرام خویش
✦
یکی تخت و پرگار بنهاد پیش
“The wise man departed to his quarters, and laid before himself a board and a pair of compasses.”
#86
به شطرنج و اندیشهٔ هندوان
✦
نگه کرد و بفزود رنج روان
“He pondered the game of chess and the subtle intellect of the Indians, exerting his mind to the utmost.”
#87
خرد بادل روشن انباز کرد
✦
به اندیشه بنهاد برتخت نرد
“He joined wisdom with his enlightened heart, and through deep thought invented the game of Nard upon the board.”
#88
دومهره بفرمود کردن ز عاج
✦
همه پیکر عاج همرنگ ساج
“He ordered two dice to be fashioned from ivory, shaped finely like dark ebony wood.”
#89
یکی رزمگه ساخت شطرنج وار
✦
دو رویه برآراسته کارزار
“He created a battlefield in the manner of chess, with two opposing forces arranged for combat.”
#90
دولشکر ببخشید بر هشت بهر
✦
همه رزمجویان گیرنده شهر
“He divided the two armies into eight sections, all composed of valiant warriors capable of conquering realms.”
#91
زمین وار لشکر گهی چارسوی
✦
دوشاه گرانمایه و نیک خوی
“A square battlefield, like a realm, wherein stood two noble and virtuous kings.”
#92
کم و بیش دارند هر دو به هم
✦
یکی از دگر برنگیرد ستم
“Both sides held equal strength and numbers, neither exerting unrighteous tyranny over the other.”
#93
به فرمان ایشان سپاه از دو روی
✦
به تندی بیاراسته جنگجوی
“At their command, armies on both sides were arrayed, eager and fierce for battle.”
#94
یکی را چوتنها بگیرد دو تن
✦
ز لشکر برین یک تن آید شکن
“When two warriors surround a single rival, that solitary soldier falls defeated.”
#95
به هرجای پیش وپس اندر سپاه
✦
گرازان دو شاه اندران رزمگاه
“Moving back and forth amidst their hosts, the two kings proudly trod the battlefield.”
#96
همی این بران آن برین برگذشت
✦
گهی رزم کوه و گهی رزم دشت
“They attacked back and forth, now fighting as if in the mountains, now as upon the plain.”
#97
برین گونه تا بر که بودی شکن
✦
شدندی دو شاه و سپاه انجمن
“Thus it went until defeat fell upon one side, and both kings and their armies assembled together.”
#98
بدین سان که گفتم بیاراست نرد
✦
برشاه شد یک به یک یاد کرد
“In this manner he designed the game of Nard; then he presented himself to the King and explained it step by step.”
#99
وزان رفتن شاه برترمنش
✦
همانش ستایش همان سرزنش
“He explained the movement of the proud King, and how it brought both glory and defeat.”
#100
ز نیروی و فرمان و جنگ سپاه
✦
بگسترد و بنمود یک یک بشاه
“He demonstrated to the Shah every aspect of strength, command, and the movement of troops.”
#101
دل شاه ایران ازو خیره ماند
✦
خرد را باندیشه اندر نشاند
“The heart of the King of Iran was astonished by him, and he immersed his intellect in deep reflection.”
#102
همی‌گفت کای مرد روشن‌روان
✦
جوان بادی و روزگارت جوان
“The Shah exclaimed: "O wise and enlightened man! May you remain ever young, and may your days be blessed with youth!"”
#103
بفرمود تا ساروان دو هزار
✦
بیارد شتر تا در شهریار
“He ordered the camel-drivers to bring two thousand camels to the royal court.”
#104
ز باری که خیزد ز روم و ز چین
✦
ز هیتال و مکران و ایران زمین
“Loaded with tribute and treasures from Rome, China, Haytal, Makran, and the land of Iran.”
#105
ز گنج شهنشاه کردند بار
✦
بشد کاروان از در شهریار
“They loaded these treasures from the Shah’s coffers, and the caravan departed from the King’s palace gates.”
#106
چوشد بارهای شتر ساخته
✦
دل شاه زان کار پرداخته
“When the camel loads were fully prepared and the King's mind was relieved of that challenge...”
#107
فرستادهٔ رای را پیش خواند
✦
ز دانش فراوان سخنها براند
“He summoned the envoy of the Rai to his presence, and spoke many words of wisdom.”
#108
یکی نامه بنوشت نزدیک اوی
✦
پر از دانش و رامش و رنگ و بوی
“He penned a letter to the Rai, filled with wisdom, goodwill, elegance, and grace.”
#109
سر نامه کرد آفرین بزرگ
✦
به یزدان پناهش ز دیو سترگ
“He began the letter with high praises, invoking God's protection for him against the great demon.”
#110
دگر گفت کای نامور شاه هند
✦
ز دریای قنوج تا پیش سند
“He continued: "O renowned King of India, whose rule stretches from the sea of Qannuj unto the Indus!"”
#111
رسیداین فرستادهٔ رای‌زن
✦
ابا چتر و پیلان بدین انجمن
“"Your wise ambassador arrived at this assembly, bringing royal parasols and elephants."”
#112
همان تخت شطرنج و پیغام رای
✦
شنیدیم و پیغامش امد بجای
“"Likewise, the chessboard and the Rai’s message reached us, and his command has been fulfilled."”
#113
ز دانای هندی زمان خواستیم
✦
به دانش روان را بیاراستیم
“"We asked for time from the Indian sage, and adorned our minds with wisdom."”
#114
بسی رای زد موبد پاک‌رای
✦
پژوهید وآورد بازی به جای
“"Our pure-minded Mobad pondered deeply, researched thoroughly, and solved the game."”
#115
کنون آمد این موبد هوشمند
✦
به قنوج نزدیک رای بلند
“"Now this intelligent Mobad travels to Qannuj, unto the exalted Rai."”
#116
شتروار بار گران دو هزار
✦
پسندیده بار از در شهریار
“Two thousand heavy camel-loads of precious goods, tribute well-suited for a king.”
#117
نهادیم برجای شطرنج نرد
✦
کنون تا به بازی که آرد نبرد
“"In place of chess, we have set down backgammon; now let us see who shall do battle in this game!"”
#118
برهمن فراوان بود پاک‌رای
✦
که این بازی آرد به دانش به جای
“"There are many pure-minded Brahmins who might, through wisdom, master this game."”
#119
ز چیزی که دید این فرستاده رنج
✦
فرستد همه رای هندی به گنج
“"For all the toil and trouble this envoy bore, the Ray of India shall send tribute to your treasury."”
#120
ور ایدون کجا رای با راهنمای
✦
بکوشند بازی نیاید به جای
“"And if the Ray and his wise advisers strive, yet fail to decipher this game,"”
#121
شتروار باید که هم زین شمار
✦
به پیمان کند رای قنوج بار
“"Then the Ray of Kannauj must likewise send two thousand camel-loads of treasure according to our pact."”
#122
کند بار همراه با بار ما
✦
چنینست پیمان و بازار ما
“"He shall send his tribute back along with ours; such is our covenant and such is our bargain."”
#123
چوخورشید رخشنده شد بر سپهر
✦
برفت از در شاه بوزرجمهر
“As the radiant sun rose in the heavens, Bozorgmehr set out from the King’s court.”
#124
چو آمد ز ایران به نزدیک رای
✦
برهمن بشادی ورا رهنمای
“When he arrived in India from Iran before the Ray, the Brahmins joyfully guided him to the court.”
#125
ابا بار با نامه وتخت نرد
✦
دلش پر ز بازار ننگ ونبرد
“Carrying the gifts, the letter, and the backgammon set, his mind focused on the contest of skill and honor.”
#126
چو آمد به نزدیکی تخت اوی
✦
بدید آن سر و افسر و بخت اوی
“As he drew near the throne of the Ray, he beheld his majestic stature, crown, and royal fortune.”
#127
فراوانش بستود بر پهلوی
✦
بدو داد پس نامهٔ خسروی
“He praised him abundantly in the Middle Persian tongue, and then delivered the royal letter of Khosrow.”
#128
ز شطرنج وز راه وز رنج رای
✦
بگفت آنچه آمد یکایک به جای
“He recounted all that had transpired regarding chess, the journey, and the challenge posed to the Ray.”
#129
پیام شهنشاه با او بگفت
✦
رخ رای هندی چوگل برشگفت
“He delivered the King of Kings' message, and the face of the Indian Ray blossomed like a rose.”
#130
بگفت آن کجا دید پاینده مرد
✦
چنان هم سراسر بیاورد نرد
“The steadfast sage recounted all he had observed, and presented the backgammon set before them.”
#131
ز بازی و از مهره و رای شاه
✦
وزان موبدان نماینده راه
“He explained the rules of the game, the pieces, the royal intent of King Khosrow, and the guidance of the wise priests.”
#132
به نامه دورن آنچه کردست یاد
✦
بخواند بداند نپیچد ز داد
“Whatever had been inscribed in the royal letter was read, so the Ray would know and not stray from justice.”
#133
ز گفتار اوشد رخ شاه زرد
✦
چو بشنید گفتار شطرنج و نرد
“Upon hearing the terms regarding chess and backgammon, the Indian King’s face turned pale.”
#134
بیامد یکی نامور کدخدای
✦
فرستاده را داد شایسته‌جای
“A noble chamberlain stepped forward and provided the envoy with honorable lodgings.”
#135
یکی خرم ایوان بیاراستند
✦
می و رود و رامشگران خواستند
“They adorned a pleasant palace hall, calling for wine, lutes, and court musicians.”
#136
زمان خواست پس نامور هفت روز
✦
برفت آنک بودند دانش فروز
“The noble Ray requested a grace period of seven days, and summoned all the wise men of his realm.”
#137
به کشور ز پیران شایسته مرد
✦
یکی انجمن کرد و بنهاد نرد
“He assembled a council of wise elders from across the land and set the backgammon board before them.”
#138
به یک هفته آنکس که بد تیزویر
✦
ازان نامداران برنا و پیر
“For a whole week, all the sharp-minded notables, young and old alike,”
#139
همی‌بازجستند بازی نرد
✦
به رشک و برای وبه ننگ و نبرد
“Strove tirelessly to solve the puzzle of backgammon, driven by pride, rivalry, and honor.”
#140
بهشتم چنین گفت موبد به رای
✦
که این را نداند کسی سر زپای
“On the eighth day, a wise priest said to the Ray: "No one can discern the head or tail of this game,”
#141
مگر با روان یار گردد خرد
✦
کزین مهره بازی برون آورد
“Unless divine wisdom aids the soul to decipher the mystery of these pieces."”
#142
بیامد نهم روز بوزرجمهر
✦
پر از آرزو دل پرآژنگ چهر
“On the ninth day, Bozorgmehr approached, his heart full of expectation and his brow furrowed in gravity.”
#143
که کسری نفرمود ما را درنگ
✦
نباید که گردد دل شاه تنگ
“Saying: "King Khosrow commanded us not to linger, lest the monarch's heart grow weary."”
#144
بشد موبدان را ازان دل دژم
✦
روان پر زغم ابروان پر زخم
“Hearing this, the Indian priests grew sorrowful, their spirits filled with grief and their brows heavy with worry.”
#145
بزرگان دانا به یک سو شدند
✦
به نادانی خویش خستو شدند
“The wise elders stepped aside, confessing their helplessness and ignorance of the game.”
#146
چو آن دید بنشست بوزرجمهر
✦
همه موبدان برگشادند چهر
“Seeing this, Bozorgmehr sat down before the board, while the priests watched with open faces.”
#147
بگسترد پیش اندرون تخت نرد
✦
همه گردش مهرها یاد کرد
“He laid out the backgammon board before them and explained every movement of the pieces.”
#148
سپهدار بنمود و جنگ سپاه
✦
هم آرایش رزم و فرمان شاه
“He demonstrated the generals, the clash of armies, the array of battle, and the king’s supreme command.”
#149
ازو خیره شد رای با رای‌زن
✦
ز کشور بسی نامدار انجمن
“The Ray and his counselors were left in sheer astonishment, alongside the nobles of the realm.”
#150
همه مهتران آفرین خواندند
✦
ورا موبد پاک دین خواندند
“All the chieftains showered him with praise, acclaiming him as a priest of pure faith and wisdom.”
#151
ز هر دانشی زو بپرسید رای
✦
همه پاسخ آمد یکایک به جای
“The Ray questioned him on every field of knowledge, and to each inquiry, he received a fitting answer.”
#152
خروشی برآمد ز دانندگان
✦
ز دانش پژوهان وخوانندگان
“A cry of admiration arose from all the sages, the seekers of wisdom, and the learned readers.”
#153
که اینت سخنگوی داننده مرد
✦
نه از بهر شطرنج و بازی نرد
“Exclaiming, 'What an eloquent and wise man this is, not merely skilled in chess and nard!'”
#154
بیاورد زان پس شتر دو هزار
✦
همه گنج قنوح کردند بار
“Thereupon, two thousand camels were brought forth, loaded with the immense treasures of Qannuj.”
#155
ز عود و ز عنبر ز کافور و زر
✦
همه جامه وجام پیکر گهر
“Rich aloeswood, ambergris, camphor, and gold; robes of state, and jeweled goblets.”
#156
ابا باژ یکساله از پیشگاه
✦
فرستاد یک سر به درگاه شاه
“Along with a full year's tribute from his court, he dispatched them all to the King of kings.”
#157
یکی افسری خواست از گنج رای
✦
همان جامهٔ زر ز سر تا به پای
“The Ray summoned a crown from his treasure-house and a robe woven of gold from head to foot.”
#158
بدو داد وچند آفرین کرد نیز
✦
بیارانش بخشید بسیار چیز
“He bestowed them upon Bozorgmehr, praising him greatly, and showered his companions with abundant gifts.”
#159
شتر دو هزار آنک از پیش برد
✦
ابا باژ و هدیه مر او را سپرد
“The two thousand camels that he had won earlier, together with the tribute and gifts, were entrusted to his care.”
#160
یکی کاروان بد که کس پیش ازان
✦
نراند و نبد خواسته بیش ازان
“Such a magnificent caravan it was that none had ever led before, nor had a greater wealth been seen.”
#161
بیامد ز قنوج بوزرجمهر
✦
برافراخته سر بگردان سپهر
“Thus Bozorgmehr departed from Qannuj, holding his head high beneath the revolving heavens.”
#162
دلی شاد با نامه شاه هند
✦
نبشته به هندی خطی بر پرند
“With a joyful heart, he bore a letter from the King of India, written in Hindi script upon finest silk.”
#163
که رای و بزرگان گوایی دهند
✦
نه از بیم کزنیک رایی دهند
“Stating: 'The Ray and his nobles bear witness—not out of fear, but from sound judgment—'”
#164
که چون شاه نوشین‌روان کس ندید
✦
نه از موبد سالخورده شنید
“'That no one has ever seen a monarch like King Noshinravan, nor heard of his equal from an ancient priest.'”
#165
نه کس دانشی تر ز دستور اوی
✦
ز دانش سپهرست گنجور اوی
“'Nor is anyone wiser than his minister; his treasurer is a sky of wisdom itself.'”
#166
فرستاده شد باژ یک ساله پیش
✦
اگر بیش باید فرستیم بیش
“'The tribute for one year has been sent ahead, and if more is required, we shall send even more.'”
#167
ز باژی که پیمان نهادیم نیز
✦
فرستاده شد هرچ بایست چیز
“'Whatever tribute was agreed upon in our treaty has all been dispatched completely.'”
#168
چو آگاهی آمد ز دانا به شاه
✦
که با کام و با خوبی آمد ز راه
“When news reached the King concerning the wise minister, that he had returned safely and with full success,”
#169
ازان آگهی شاد شد شهریار
✦
بفرمود تاهرک بد نامدار
“The monarch was rejoiced by the news and ordered all the prominent nobles of the realm—”
#170
ز شهر و ز لشکر خبیره شدند
✦
همه نامداران پذیره شدند
“Both from the city and the army, to gather and go forth to welcome him.”
#171
به شهر اندر آمد چنان ارجمند
✦
به پیروزی شهریار بلند
“Thus he entered the city in great honor, owing to the good fortune of the exalted sovereign.”
#172
به ایوان چو آمد به نزدیک تخت
✦
برو شهریار آفرین کرد سخت
“When he entered the palace and approached the throne, the monarch showered him with enthusiastic praise.”
#173
ببر در گرفتش جهاندار شاه
✦
بپرسیدش از رای وز رنج راه
“The ruler of the world embraced him warmly and inquired about the Ray and the hardships of his journey.”
#174
بگفت آنکجا رفت بوزرجمهر
✦
ازان بخت بیدار و مهر سپهر
“Bozorgmehr related all that had transpired, attributing his success to the King's vigilant fortune and the favor of the heavens.”
#175
پس آن نامه رای پیروزبخت
✦
بیاورد و بنهاد در پیش تخت
“Then he brought forth the letter from the prosperous Ray and placed it before the throne.”
#176
بفرمود تا یزدگرد دبیر
✦
بیامد بر شاه دانش‌پذیر
“The King commanded Yazdgerd the scribe to appear before the wisdom-seeking monarch.”
#177
چو آن نامه رای هندی بخواند
✦
یکی انجمن درشگفتی بماند
“When he read the letter of the Indian Ray aloud, the whole assembly was left in awe and astonishment.”
#178
هم از دانش و رای بوزرجمهر
✦
ازان بخت سالار خورشید چهر
“Astonished both by the wisdom and discernment of Bozorgmehr, and by the radiant fortune of their Sun-faced ruler.”
#179
چنین گفت کسری که یزدان سپاس
✦
که هستم خردمند و نیکی‌شناس
“Thus spoke Khosrow: 'Praise be to God, for I am blessed with wisdom and appreciation of goodness.'”
#180
مهان تاج وتخت مرا بنده‌اند
✦
دل وجان به مهر من آگنده‌اند
“'The nobles are loyal subjects to my crown and throne, their hearts and souls filled with affection for me.'”
#181
شگفتی‌تر از کار بوزرجمهر
✦
که دانش بدو داد چندین سپهر
“'And even more wondrous is the affair of Bozorgmehr, upon whom the heavens have bestowed such boundless knowledge.'”
#182
سپاس از خداوند خورشید وماه
✦
کزویست پیروزی و دستگاه
“'Thanks be to the Lord of the Sun and Moon, from Whom come all victory, power, and glory!'”
#183
برین داستان برسخن ساختم
✦
به طلخند و شطرنج پرداختم
“Here I complete this narrative, and now I turn my poetic discourse to Talkhand and the story of Chess.”