#1
شب تیره چون چادر مشک‌بوی
✦
بیفگند و خورشید بنمود روی
“When the dark night cast off its musk-scented veil, and the radiant sun revealed its face,”
#2
به درگاه شد مرزبان نزد شاه
✦
گرانمایگان برگشادند راه
“The marchlord (Bahram) arrived at the royal court before the king, and the nobles respectfully made way for him.”
#3
جهاندار بهرام را پیش خواند
✦
به تخت از بر نامداران نشاند
“The sovereign of the world called Bahram forward and seated him upon the throne above the other nobles.”
#4
بپرسید زان پس که با ساوه شاه
✦
کنم آشتی گر فرستم سپاه
“He then asked him: 'Should I make peace with Saveh Shah, or send forth an army to fight him?'”
#5
چنین داد پاسخ بدو جنگجوی
✦
که با ساوه شاه آشتی نیست روی
“The warrior answered him thus: 'There is no path to peace with Saveh Shah.'”
#6
گر او جنگ را خواهد آراستن
✦
هزیمت بوَد آشتی خواستن
“'If he intends to prepare for war, then seeking peace on our part is nothing less than defeat.'”
#7
و دیگر که بدخواه گردد دلیر
✦
چو بیند که کام تو آمد بزیر
“'Furthermore, the adversary will grow emboldened when he sees that your desire has lowered itself.'”
#8
گه رزم چون بزم پیش آوری
✦
به فرمانبری مانَد این داوری
“'If in the hour of battle you act as if at a feast, such a decision will resemble submission to his command.'”
#9
بدو گفت هرمز که پس چیست رای
✦
درنگ آورم گر بجنبم ز جای
“Hormozd said to him: 'What then is your counsel? Should I delay, or should I advance from this place?'”
#10
چنین داد پاسخ که گر بدسگال
✦
بپیچد سر از داد بهتر به فال
“He replied thus: 'If the malevolent enemy turns his head away from justice, consider it a fortunate omen for us.'”
#11
چه گفت آن گرانمایهٔ نیک‌رای
✦
که بیداد را نیست با داد جای
“'What did that noble person of sound mind say? "Injustice has no place beside justice."'”
#12
تو با دشمن بدکنش رزم جوی
✦
که با آتش آب اندر آری به جوی
“'Seek battle with the evil-doing enemy, so that you may bring water into the channel against the fire.'”
#13
وگر خود دگرگونه باشد سخن
✦
شهی نو گزیند سپهر کهن
“'And even if fate decrees otherwise, the ancient heavens will choose a new monarch.'”
#14
چو نیرو ببازوی خویش آوریم
✦
هنر هرچ داریم پیش آوریم
“'When we bring strength to our arms and display whatever valour and skill we possess,'”
#15
نه از پاک‌یزدان نکوهش بوَد
✦
نه شرم از یلان چون پژوهش بوَد
“'Neither shall we be blamed by the Pure God, nor ashamed before warriors when our deeds are judged.'”
#16
چو ناکشته ز ایرانیان ده هزار
✦
بتابیم خیره سر از کارزار
“'If, before ten thousand Iranians fall slain, we foolishly turn our faces away from combat,'”
#17
چه گوید تو را دشمن عیب‌جوی
✦
که بی‌جنگ پیچی ز بدخواه روی
“'What will the fault-finding enemy say of you—that you turned away from your foe without a fight?'”
#18
چو بر دشمنان تیرباران کنیم
✦
کمان را چو ابر بهاران کنیم
“'When we shower arrows upon our enemies, turning our bows into spring rain-clouds,'”
#19
همان تیغ و گوپال چون صدهزار
✦
شکسته شود در صف کارزار
“'And when a hundred thousand swords and maces are shattered in the ranks of battle,'”
#20
چو پیروزی ما نیاید پدید
✦
دل از نیک‌بختی نباید کشید
“'Even if our victory does not immediately appear, we must not lose heart or abandon hope in good fortune.'”
#21
وزان پس بفرمان دشمن شویم
✦
که بیهوش و بیجان و بیتن شویم
“'Only then shall we yield to the enemy's command—when we are left senseless, lifeless, and body-less!'”
#22
بکوشیم با گردش آسمان
✦
اگر در میانه سر آرد زمان
“'We shall strive against the turning of the heavens, even if time brings our destiny to an end in the conflict.'”
#23
چو گفتار بهرام بشنید شاه
✦
بخندید و رخشنده شد پیشگاه
“When the king heard Bahram's words, he laughed with joy, and the royal court became radiant.”
#24
ز پیش جهاندار بیرون شدند
✦
جهاندیدگان دل پر از خون شدند
“The experienced elders departed from the ruler's presence, their hearts heavy and filled with grief.”
#25
ببهرام گفتند کاندر سخُن
✦
چو پرسد تو را بس دلیری مکُن
“They said to Bahram: 'When the king asks your counsel, do not show such daring audacity in your speech!'”
#26
سپاهست چندان ابا ساوه شاه
✦
که بر مور و بر پشّه بستند راه
“'Saveh Shah commands so vast an army that they block the way even to ants and mosquitoes!'”
#27
چنان چون تو گویی همی پیش شاه
✦
که یارد بُدن پهلوان سپاه
“'Who could dare to be the commander of the host, as you boast before the king?'”
#28
چنین گفت بهرام با مهتران
✦
که ای نامداران و کندآوران
“Bahram spoke thus to the noble elders: 'O famous and valiant heroes!'”
#29
چو فرمان دهد نامبردار شاه
✦
منم ساخته پهلوان سپاه
“'If the renowned king commands it, I am ready to be the champion-general of the army.'”
#30
برفتند بیدار کارآگهان
✦
هم آنگه بر شهریار جهان
“The vigilant spies straightway went before the king of the world.”
#31
سخنهای بهرام چندانک بود
✦
بهر یک سراینده ده برفزود
“To every single word Bahram had spoken, each storyteller added ten more in their report.”
#32
شهنشاه ایران ازان شاد شد
✦
ز تیمار آن لشکر آزاد شد
“The Shahanshah of Iran was delighted by this, and was freed from anxiety concerning that army.”
#33
ورا کرد سالار بر لشکرش
✦
بابر اندر آورد جنگی سرش
“He appointed him commander over his forces, and the warlike chief raised his head to the clouds in pride.”
#34
هرآنکس که جست از یلان نام را
✦
سپهبد همی‌خواند بهرام را
“Whosoever among the heroes sought fame now addressed Bahram as their commander-in-chief.”
#35
سپهبد بیامد بر شهریار
✦
که خوانم عرِض را ز بهر شمار
“The commander came before the monarch, saying: 'I shall assemble the muster roll to count the army.'”
#36
ببینم ز لشکر که جنگی که‌اند
✦
گهِ نام جستن درنگی که‌اند
“"I shall inspect the host to see who is a warrior bold, and who falters when the hour comes to seek renown."”
#37
بدو گفت سالار لشکر تویی
✦
بتو باز گردد بد و نیکویی
“The King said unto him, "Thou art the commander of the host, and upon thy shoulders rests all good or ill fortune."”
#38
سپهبد بشد تا عرِض‌گاه شاه
✦
بفرمود تا پیش او شد سپاه
“The commander proceeded to the royal parade ground, ordering the army to muster before him.”
#39
گزین کرد ز ایرانیان لشکری
✦
هرآنکس که بود از سران افسری
“From among the Iranians he chose a host, selecting every leader who wore a crown of command.”
#40
نبشتند نام ده و دو هزار
✦
زره‌دار و برگستوانور سوار
“They recorded twelve thousand names in all—mail-clad warriors and armored horsemen.”
#41
چهل‌سالگان را نبشتند نام
✦
درم بر کم و بیش از این شد حرام
“Only men of forty years were inscribed; to any younger or older, all bounty was forbidden.”
#42
سپهبد چو بهرام بهرام بود
✦
که در جنگ جستن ورا نام بود
“The general was Bahram, mighty as Mars himself, whose glory was earned in the pursuit of battle.”
#43
یکی را کجا نام یل‌سینه بود
✦
کجا سینه و دل پر از کینه بود
“Another commander was named Yal-Sina, whose heart and breast burned with fierce vengeance.”
#44
سرنامداران جنگیش کرد
✦
که پیش صف آید به روز نبرد
“Bahram appointed him chief of the war-champions, to ride ahead of the vanguard on the day of battle.”
#45
بگردانَد اسب و بگوید نژاد
✦
کُنَد بر دل جنگیان جنگ یاد
“To wheel his steed, proclaim his noble blood, and ignite the fire of battle in the hearts of the warriors.”
#46
دگر آنک بد نام ایزدگشسب
✦
کز آتش نه برگاشتی روی اسب
“Another was named Izad-Gushasp, so fearless that he would not turn his steed back even from fire.”
#47
بفرمود تا گوش دارد بنه
✦
کند میسره راست با میمنه
“Bahram commanded him to guard the baggage train and align the left flank in harmony with the right.”
#48
به پشت سپه بود همدان گشسب
✦
کجا دمّ شیران گرفتی به اسب
“At the rear of the host stood Hamadan-Gushasp, who from his horse could seize the very tails of lions.”
#49
به لشکر چنین گفت پس پهلوان
✦
که ای نامداران روشن‌روان
“Then spoke the hero to the army, saying: "O renowned and enlightened champions!”
#50
کم‌آزار باشید و هم کم‌زیان
✦
بدی را مبندید هرگز میان
“"Cause little harm and do no injury; never gird yourselves to work evil.”
#51
چو خواهید کایزد بوَد یارتان
✦
کند روشن این تیره بازارتان
“"If you desire God to be your helper, and to illuminate this dark marketplace of your plight—"”
#52
شب تیره چون ناله کرّنای
✦
برآمد بجنبید یک‌سر ز جای
“In the dark night, as the blare of the clarion arose, the entire host stirred and moved from its place.”
#53
بران گونه رانید یک‌سر ستور
✦
که گر خیزد اندر شب تیره هور
“"So spur your steeds together that if the sun should rise in the dark of night..."”
#54
ز نیروی و آسودگی اسب و مرد
✦
نیندیشد از روزگار نبرد
“...from the strength and fresh vigor of horse and man, they shall feel no dread of the coming battle.”
#55
چو آگاهی آمد بر شهریار
✦
که داننده بهرام چون ساخت کار
“When news reached the King of how the wise Bahram had ordered his forces,”
#56
ز گفتار و کردار او گشت شاد
✦
در گنج بگشاد و روزی بداد
“He gladdened at his words and deeds, unlocked his treasuries, and bestowed provisions and riches upon them.”
#57
همه گنج‌های سلیح نبرد
✦
به پارس و به اهواز در باز کرد
“He threw open all the armories of war throughout Pars and Ahvaz.”
#58
ز اسبان جنگ آنچ بودش یله
✦
بشهر اندر آورد چندی گله
“And from the battle-steeds left roaming free, he brought several herds into the city.”
#59
بفرمود تا پهلوان سپاه
✦
بخواهد هرآنچش بباید ز شاه
“He commanded that the army's general ask of the King whatever he might require.”
#60
چنین گفت بهرام را شهریار
✦
که از هر دری دیدهٔ کارزار
“The monarch addressed Bahram, saying: "O experienced warrior who hast witnessed battle from every side,”
#61
شنیدی که با نامور ساوه شاه
✦
چه مایه سلیحست و گنج و سپاه
“"Hast thou heard how vast an army, treasury, and armor the renowned Sava Shah commands?”
#62
هم از جنگ ترکان او روز کین
✦
به آوردگه بر بلرزد زمین
“"And how on the day of vengeance, the very earth trembles under the assault of his Turks?”
#63
گزیدی ز لشکر ده و دو هزار
✦
زره‌دار و برگستوانور سوار
“"Yet thou hast chosen but twelve thousand mail-clad and armored horsemen from the host.”
#64
بدین مایه مردم به روز نبرد
✦
ندانم که چون خیزد این کار‌کرد
“"With so small a force on the day of fight, I know not how this feat can be accomplished."”
#65
به جای جوانان شمشیرزن
✦
چهل‌سالگان خواستی ز انجمن
“"In place of sword-wielding youths, thou hast demanded forty-year-old men from the assembly."”
#66
سپهبد چنین داد پاسخ بدوی
✦
که ای شاه نیک‌اختر و راست‌گوی
“The general answered him thus: "O sovereign of auspicious fortune and truthful speech,”
#67
شنیدستی آن داستان مهان
✦
که در پیش بودند شاه جهان
“"Hast thou heard that tale of the great elders who ruled the world before thee?”
#68
که چون بخت پیروز یاور بود
✦
روا باشد ار یار کمتر بود
“"That when victorious Fortune is one's ally, it matters not if the companions be few in number.”
#69
برین داستان نیز دارم گوا
✦
اگر بشنود شاه فرمانروا
“"I hold a witness to this tale as well, if the sovereign King will deign to hear it:”
#70
که کاوس کی را بهاماوران
✦
ببستند با لشکری بی‌کران
“"That Kay Kavus in Hamavaran was captured and bound despite possessing a boundless host!"”
#71
گزین کرد رستم ده و دو هزار
✦
ز شایسته مردان گرد و سوار
“Rostam once chose twelve thousand men from among the most worthy champions and horsemen.”
#72
بیاورد کاوس کی را ز بند
✦
بران نامداران نیامد گزند
“He delivered Kay Kavus from captivity, and those renowned warriors suffered no harm in the deed.”
#73
همان نیز گودرز کشوادگان
✦
سر نامداران آزادگان
“Likewise Goudarz, son of Kashvad, the chieftain of noble and freeborn leaders,”
#74
به کین سیاوش ده و دو هزار
✦
بیاورد برگستوانور سوار
“Brought twelve thousand armored horsemen to seek vengeance for Siavash.”
#75
همان نیز پرمایه اسفندیار
✦
بیاورد جنگی ده و دو هزار
“And the illustrious Esfandiyar too brought twelve thousand battle-tested warriors,”
#76
به ارجاسب بر چاره کرد آنچه کرد
✦
از آن لشکر و دژ برآورد گرد
“Devising against Arjasp what strategy he must, turning his fortress and army to dust.”
#77
از این مایه گر لشکر افزون بوَد
✦
ز مردی و از رای بیرون بوَد
“If an army exceeds this proportion, it strays beyond true valor and sound strategy.”
#78
سپهبد که لشکر فزون از سه چار
✦
به جنگ آورد پیچد از کارزار
“A commander who brings more than three or four measures into combat will falter on the battlefield.”
#79
دگر آنک گفتی چهل‌ساله مرد
✦
ز برنا فزونتر نجوید نبرد
“Furthermore, concerning your statement that a forty-year-old man seeks not battle more eagerly than a youth:”
#80
چهل‌ساله با آزمایش بود
✦
به مردانگی در فزایش بود
“A man of forty years is seasoned with experience and continues to grow in manly fortitude.”
#81
بیاد آیدش مهر نان و نمک
✦
برو گشته باشد فراوان فلک
“He honors the bond of loyalty and salt, having witnessed the manifold turns of fate.”
#82
ز گفتار بدگوی وز نام و ننگ
✦
هراسان بود سر نپیچد ز جنگ
“Fearful of dishonor, slander, and shame, he will never turn his face away from fight.”
#83
ز بهر زن و زاده و دوده را
✦
بپیچد روان مرد فرسوده را
“For the sake of wife, child, and noble lineage, the soul of an experienced man is bound to honor.”
#84
جوان چیز بیند پذیرد فریب
✦
بگاه درنگش نباشد شکیب
“A youth beholds glittering allure and falls to deceit; when fortitude is needed, he lacks endurance.”
#85
ندارد زن و کودک و کشت و ورز
✦
بچیزی ندارد ز نا‌ارز ارز
“He owns no wife, no child, no field to till; he cannot discern the worthy from the worthless.”
#86
چو بی‌آزمایش نیابد خرد
✦
سر مایهٔ کارها ننگرد
“Since wisdom comes not without trial, he fails to perceive the true substance of affairs.”
#87
گر ایدون که پیروز گردد به جنگ
✦
شود شاد و خندان و سازد درنگ
“If perchance he triumphs in war, he becomes joyous and smiling, indulging in dangerous delay.”
#88
وگر هیچ پیروز شد بر تنش
✦
نبیند جز از پشت او دشمنش
“And if the foe should gain an advantage over him, the enemy sees nothing of him but his fleeing back.”
#89
چو بشنید گفتار او شهریار
✦
چنان تازه شد چون گل اندر بهار
“When the king heard these words of wisdom, he blossomed with joy like a flower in spring.”
#90
بدو گفت رو جوشن کارزار
✦
بپوش و ز ایوان به میدان گذار
“He said to him: 'Go, put on your coat of mail, and step forth from the palace into the parade ground!'”
#91
سپهبد بیامد ز نزدیک شاه
✦
کمر خواست و خفتان و درع و کلاه
“The commander came forth from the king's presence, calling for his belt, mail coat, cuirass, and helmet.”
#92
برافگند برگستوان بر سمند
✦
بفتراک بر‌بست پیچان کمند
“He draped the caparison over his steed and bound the coiled lasso to his saddle-strap.”
#93
جهان‌جوی با گوی و چوگان و تیر
✦
به میدان خرامید خود با وزیر
“The world-seeker, equipped with ball, polo-mallet, and arrows, strode into the field alongside the minister.”
#94
سپهبد بیامد به میدان شاه
✦
بغلتید در خاک پیش سپاه
“The commander entered the royal parade ground and prostrated himself in the dust before the host.”
#95
چو دیدش جهاندار کرد آفرین
✦
سپهبد ببوسید روی زمین
“When the sovereign saw his devotion, he offered praise, and the commander kissed the earth.”
#96
بیاورد پس شهریار آن درفش
✦
که بُد پیکرش اژدهافش بنفش
“Then the monarch brought forth that standard—purple of hue and emblazoned with a dragon's form,”
#97
که در پیش رستم بدی روز جنگ
✦
سبک شاه ایران گرفت آن به چنگ
“Which used to be borne before Rostam in the day of battle; swiftly the King of Iran held it in hand.”
#98
چو ببسود خندان به بهرام داد
✦
فراوان بر او آفرین کرد یاد
“He touched it with a smile, handed it to Bahram, and bestowed upon him abundant praise.”
#99
به بهرام گفت آنک جدان من
✦
همی‌خواندندش سر انجمن
“He said to Bahram: 'This belonged to him whom my ancestors hailed as the leader of the assembly,'”
#100
کجا نام او رستم پهلوان
✦
جهانگیر و پیروز و روشن‌روان
“'Whose name was Rostam the champion—world-conquering, victorious, and illuminated in soul.'”
#101
درفش ویست این که داری بدست
✦
که پیروز بادی و خسروپرست
“'This is his banner which you now hold; may you be victorious and ever loyal to the king!'”
#102
گمانم که تو رستم دیگری
✦
به مردی و گردی و فرمانبری
“'I deem that you are another Rostam in courage, heroism, and steadfast obedience.'”
#103
برو آفرین کرد پس پهلوان
✦
که پیروزگر باش و روشن‌روان
“Then the hero praised the king, saying: 'May you be ever victorious and enlightened of heart!'”
#104
ز میدان بیامد بجای نشست
✦
سپهبد درفش تهمتن بدست
“The commander returned from the field to his station, bearing the banner of Tahamtan in his grip.”
#105
پراگنده گشتند گردان شاه
✦
همان شادمان پهلوان سپاه
“The heroes of the king dispersed, as did the joyful commander of the host.”
#106
سپیده چو برزد سر از کوه بر
✦
پدید آمد آن زرد رخشان سپر
“As dawn reared its head above the mountain crest, that gleaming yellow shield of the sun shone forth.”
#107
سپهبد بیامد بایوان شاه
✦
بکش کرده دست اندر آن بارگاه
“The general arrived at the king's palace, standing reverently with arms folded across his chest in the royal court.”
#108
بدو گفت من بی‌بهانه شدم
✦
بفرّ تو تاج زمانه شدم
“He said to him, 'I have made ready without excuse; by your glory, I have become the crowning pride of the era.'”
#109
یکی آرزو خواهم از شهریار
✦
که با من فرستد یکی استوار
“'I ask but one wish from the sovereign: that he send with me a trustworthy scribe,'”
#110
که تا هر کسی کو نبرد آورد
✦
سر دشمنی زیر گرد آورد
“'So that whoever brings battle to the field and buries the enemy's head beneath the dust,'”
#111
نویسد بنامه درون نام اوی
✦
رونده شود در جهان کام اوی
“'May have his name recorded in the royal dispatch, and his noble deeds made renowned throughout the world.'”
#112
چنین گفت هرمزد که مهران دبیر
✦
جوانست و گوینده و یادگیر
“Hormozd replied, 'Mehran the scribe is young, eloquent, and swift to learn.'”
#113
بفرمود تا با سپهبد برفت
✦
سپهبد سوی جنگ تازید تفت
“He commanded him to depart with the commander, and the general rode swiftly toward the seat of war.”
#114
بشد لشکر از کشور طیسفون
✦
سپهدار بهرام پیش اندرون
“The army marched forth from the realm of Ctesiphon, with Commander Bahram leading at their head.”
#115
سپاهی خردمند و گرد و دلیر
✦
سپهدار بیدار چون نرّه‌شیر
“An army wise, brave, and heroic, led by a vigilant commander fierce as a male lion.”
#116
به موبد چنین گفت هرمز که مرد
✦
دلیرست و شادان به دشت نبرد
“Hormoz said to the Mobad, 'This man is bold and rejoices upon the plain of battle.'”
#117
ازان پس چه گویی چه شاید بدن
✦
همه داستان‌ها بباید زدن
“'What say you of what may transpire hereafter? All possibilities must be considered.'”
#118
بدو گفت موبد که جاوید زی
✦
که خود جاودان زندگی را سزی
“The Mobad replied, 'Live forever! For indeed, you are worthy of eternal life.'”
#119
بدین برز و بالای این پهلوان
✦
بدین تیزگفتار روشن‌روان
“'With this hero's towering stature and strength, with his sharp speech and enlightened soul,'”
#120
نباشد مگر شاد و پیروزگر
✦
وزو دشمن شاه زیر و زبر
“'He shall be nothing but joyous and victorious, and through him the king's enemies shall be overthrown.'”
#121
بترسم که او هم به فرجام کار
✦
بپیچد سر از شاه پرودگار
“'Yet I fear lest in the end, he too turn his head away from the king who raised him.'”
#122
همی در سخن بس دلیری نمود
✦
به گفتار با شاه شیری نمود
“'He showed great audacity in his speech, acting with the king like a bold lion in his words.'”
#123
بدو گفت هرمز که در پای زهر
✦
میالای زهر ای بداندیش دهر
“Hormoz said to him, 'Do not mix poison into honey, O ill-thinking counselor of time!'”
#124
چون او گشت پیروز بر ساوه شاه
✦
سزد گر سپارم بدو تاج و گاه
“'If he emerges victorious over King Saveh, it would be fitting if I yield to him the crown and throne.'”
#125
چنین باد و هرگز مبادا جز این
✦
که او شهریاری شود بافرین
“'So let it be, and never otherwise, that he become a praised and honored ruler.'”
#126
چو موبد ز شاه این سخنها شنید
✦
بپژمرد و لب را بدندان گزید
“When the Mobad heard these words from the king, he withered with worry and bit his lip.”
#127
همی‌داشت اندر دل این شهریار
✦
چنین تا برآمد برین روزگار
“The monarch held this thought within his heart as time went by.”
#128
ز درگه یکی راز‌داری بجست
✦
که تا این سخن بازجوید درست
“He sought out a trusted confidant from his court to investigate this matter thoroughly.”
#129
بدو گفت تیز از پس پهلوان
✦
برو تا چه بینی به من بر‌بخوان
“He said to him, 'Hasten swiftly after the champion; observe what transpires and report it back to me.'”
#130
بیامد سخنگوی پویان ز پس
✦
نبود آگه از کار او هیچکس
“The messenger hurried after him on foot; no one was aware of his secret mission.”
#131
که هم راهبر بود و هم فال‌گوی
✦
سرانجام هر کار گفتی بدوی
“He was both a guide and an augur, who could divine the eventual outcome of any task.”
#132
چو بهرام بیرون شد از طیسفون
✦
همی‌راند با نیزه پیش اندرون
“As Bahram set out from Ctesiphon, he rode ahead carrying his spear before him.”
#133
به پیش آمدش سر فروشی به راه
✦
ازو دور بد پهلوان سپاه
“A vendor selling cooked sheep heads came along his path, at some distance from the commander of the army.”
#134
یکی خوانچه بر سر به پیوسته داشت
✦
بروبر فراوان سرشسته داشت
“He carried a tray resting upon his head, laden with many well-cleaned head-meats.”
#135
سپهبد برانگیخت اسب از شگفت
✦
بنوک سنان زان سری برگرفت
“The general spurred his horse in wonder, and with the tip of his spear snatched one of the heads.”
#136
همی‌راند تا نیزه برداشت راست
✦
بینداخت آنرا بران سو که خواست
“He rode on until he raised his spear straight, then hurled it in the direction he wished.”
#137
یکی اختری کرد زان سر به راه
✦
کزین سان ببرم سر ساوه شاه
“He drew an omen along the road from that severed head, saying, 'Thus shall I sever the head of King Saveh!'”
#138
به پیش سپاهش به راه افگنم
✦
همه لشکرش را بهم بر‌زنم
“'I shall cast it onto the road before his army, and throw his entire host into complete disarray!'”
#139
فرستادهٔ شاه چون آن بدید
✦
پی افگند فالی چنان چون سزید
“When the king's messenger witnessed this, he interpreted the omen appropriately as was fitting.”
#140
چنین گفت کین مرد پیروزبخت
✦
بیابد به فرجام زین رنج تخت
“He said, 'This fortunate man shall ultimately win the throne as the reward for these hardships.'”
#141
ازان پس چو کام دل آرد بمشت
✦
بپیچد سر از شاه و گردد درشت
“Thereafter, when he achieves his heart's desire, he will turn his head from the King and grow defiant.”
#142
بیامد بر شاه و این را بگفت
✦
جهاندار با درد و غم گشت جفت
“He came to the King and told him this, and the ruler of the world became paired with pain and sorrow.”
#143
ورا آن سخن بتّر آمد ز مرگ
✦
بپژمرد و شد تیره آن سبز برگ
“To him, those words were worse than death; he withered, and that green leaf turned dark.”
#144
فرستاده‌ای خواست از در جوان
✦
فرستاد تازان پس پهلوان
“He summoned a young messenger from the court and sent him galloping after the champion.”
#145
بدو گفت رو با سپهبد بگوی
✦
که امشب ز جایی که هستی مپوی
“He said to him: 'Go and tell the commander: Do not move tonight from where you are.'”
#146
به شبگیر برگرد و پیش من آی
✦
تهی کرد خواهم ز بیگانه جای
“'Return at dawn and come before me, for I wish to clear the place of strangers.'”
#147
بگویم بتو هرچ آید ز پند
✦
سخن چند یاد آمدم سودمند
“'I shall tell you whatever advice arises, for several useful words have come to my mind.'”
#148
فرستاده آمد بر پهلوان
✦
بگفت آنچ بشنید مرد جوان
“The messenger came to the champion, and the young man recounted everything he had heard.”
#149
چنین داد پاسخ که لشکر ز راه
✦
نخوانند باز ای خردمند شاه
“Bahram replied: 'O wise King, an army on the march is not called back from its path.'”
#150
زره بازگشتن بد آید بفال
✦
به نیرو شود زین سخن بدسگال
“'Turning back from the road is considered an evil omen, and the ill-wishing enemy will take courage from this.'”
#151
چو پیروز گردم بیایم برت
✦
درفشان کنم لشکر و کشورت
“'When I emerge victorious, I shall return to you, and make your army and realm glorious.'”
#152
فرستاده آمد به نزدیک شاه
✦
بگفت آنچه بشنید زان رزمخواه
“The messenger returned to the King and related everything he had heard from that warrior.”
#153
ز گفتار او شاه خشنود گشت
✦
همه رنج پوینده بی‌سود گشت
“The King grew pleased with his response, and all the messenger's hasty effort proved in vain.”
#154
سپهدار شبگیر لشکر براند
✦
بر ایشان همی نام یزدان بخواند
“At dawn, the commander marched the army forward, invoking the name of God upon them.”
#155
همی‌رفت تا کشور خوزیان
✦
ز لشکر کسی را نیامد زیان
“He marched until he reached the land of the Khuzis, without anyone suffering harm from the army.”
#156
زنی با جوالی میان پر ز کاه
✦
همی‌رفت پویان میان سپاه
“A woman carrying a sack filled with straw was walking along amid the marching army.”
#157
سواری بیامد خرید آن جوال
✦
ندادش بها و بپیچید یال
“A horseman came, took the sack of straw, paid her nothing, and turned his horse away.”
#158
خروشان بیامد ببهرام گفت
✦
که کاهست لختی مرا در نهفت
“Crying out in distress, she came to Bahram and said: 'I had a little straw kept in secret...'”
#159
بهای جوالی همی‌داشتم
✦
به پیش سپاه تو بگذاشتم
“'I was holding it to sell for a price, and I brought it before your army.'”
#160
کنون بستد از من سواری به راه
✦
که دارد به سر بر ز آهن کلاه
“'Now a horseman wearing an iron helmet on his head has seized it from me along the way.'”
#161
بجستند آن مرد را در زمان
✦
کشیدند نزد سپهبد دمان
“They searched for the man immediately and dragged him swiftly before the commander.”
#162
ستاننده را گفت بهرام گرد
✦
گناهی که کردی سرت را ببرد
“Bahram the hero said to the offender: 'The sin you committed has cost you your head!'”
#163
دوانش به پیش سراپرده برد
✦
سر و دست و پایش شکستند خرد
“They dragged him swiftly before the royal tent, breaking his head, hands, and feet to pieces.”
#164
میانش به خنجر به دو نیم کرد
✦
بدو مرد بیداد را بیم کرد
“He cleaved his waist in two with a dagger, striking terror into the hearts of the unjust.”
#165
خروشی برآمد ز پرده سرای
✦
که‌ای نامداران پاکیزه‌رای
“A shout went up from the royal tent: 'O renowned and pure-minded commanders!'”
#166
هرآنکس که او برگ کاهی ز کس
✦
ستاند نباشدش فریادرس
“'Whosoever takes even a single blade of straw from anyone shall find no rescuer or mercy!'”
#167
میانش به خنجر کنم به دو نیم
✦
بخرید چیزی که باید بسیم
“'I shall cleave his waist in two with a dagger; whatever you need, purchase it with silver!'”
#168
همی‌بود ز اندیشه هرمز به رنج
✦
ازان لشکر ساوه و پیل و گنج
“Hormoz remained in tormenting anxiety over Saveh's army, his elephants, and his vast treasure.”
#169
به دل بر چو اندیشه بسیار گشت
✦
ز بهرام پر‌درد و تیمار گشت
“As worries multiplied in his heart, he grew deeply pained and anxious concerning Bahram.”
#170
روانش پر از غم دلش به دو نیم
✦
همی‌داشتی زان به دل ترس و بیم
“His soul was filled with grief and his heart broken in two; he harbored deep fear and apprehension in his heart.”
#171
شب تیره برزد سر از برج ماه
✦
بخراد برزین چنین گفت شاه
“When the dark night raised its head above the lunar tower, the King spoke thus to Khrad-e Barzin:”
#172
که بر‌ساز تا سوی دشمن شوی
✦
بکوشی و ز تاختن نغنوی
“'Prepare yourself to go toward the enemy; strive hard and do not rest from your journey.'”
#173
سپاهش نگه کن که چند و چیند
✦
سپهبد کدامند و گردان کیند
“'Observe his army to see how numerous and of what sort they are, who the commanders are, and who the heroes are.'”
#174
بفرمود تا نامهٔ پندمند
✦
نبشتند نزدیک آن پر گزند
“He commanded that an advising letter be written to that harmful, dangerous enemy.”
#175
یکی نامه با هدیه شاهوار
✦
که آن را نشاید گرفتن شمار
“A letter accompanied by royal gifts so lavish they could not be counted.”
#176
فرستاده را گفت سوی هری
✦
همی رو چو پیدا شود لشکری
“He said to the envoy, "Set forth toward Herat as soon as an army comes into view."”
#177
چنان دان که بهرام کنداورست
✦
مپندار کان لشکری دیگرست
“"Know for certain that it is the army of the valiant Bahram; do not imagine it to be any other host."”
#178
ازان راه نزدیک بهرام پوی
✦
سخن هرچ بشنیدی آن را بگوی
“"Hasten by that nearby road to Bahram's side, and convey to him every word you have heard."”
#179
بگویش که من با نوید و خرام
✦
بگسترد خواهم یکی خوب دام
“"Tell him, 'With joyful tidings and subtle grace, I intend to spread a fine snare for the enemy.'"”
#180
نباید که پیدا شود راز تو
✦
گر او بشنود نام و آواز تو
“"Take care that your secret is not revealed, lest he hear your name and voice."”
#181
من او را بدامت فراز آورم
✦
سخنهای چرب و دراز آورم
“"I shall draw him into your trap by employing smooth and lengthy speeches."”
#182
برآراست خراد برزین به راه
✦
بیامد بران سو که فرمود شاه
“Khorrad-i Barzin prepared for the journey and set out in the direction the king had commanded.”
#183
چو بهرام را دید با او بگفت
✦
سخنها کجا داشت اندر نهفت
“When he met Bahram, he disclosed to him all the hidden words he carried.”
#184
وزان جایگه شد سوی ساوه شاه
✦
بجایی که بد گنج و پیل و سپاه
“From that place, he made his way to Sava Shah, where his treasures, elephants, and troops were assembled.”
#185
ورا دید بستود و بردش نماز
✦
شنیده همی‌گفت با او به راز
“Seeing him, he praised him and paid homage, speaking to him in secrecy of all he had heard.”
#186
بیفزود پیغامش از هر دری
✦
بدان تا شود لشکر اندر هری
“He elaborated his message on every account, scheming so that the army would advance into Herat.”
#187
چوآمد به دشت هری نامدار
✦
سراپرده زد بر لب جویبار
“When the renowned leader arrived at the plain of Herat, he pitched his royal pavilion by the bank of a stream.”
#188
طلایه بیامد ز لشکر به راه
✦
بدیدند بهرام را با سپاه
“The vanguard scouts rode forth from the army and caught sight of Bahram and his troops.”
#189
طلایه بدید آن دلاور سپاه
✦
بیامد دوان تا بر ساوه شاه
“Having witnessed that courageous army, the scout hurried back post-haste to Sava Shah.”
#190
بگفت آنک با نامور مهتری
✦
یکی لشکر آمد به دشت هری
“He reported that accompanied by a famous chieftain, an army had entered the plain of Herat.”
#191
سخنها چو بشنید زو ساوه شاه
✦
پر اندیشه شد مرد جوینده راه
“When Sava Shah heard these words, the resourceful ruler became filled with anxious forethought.”
#192
ز خیمه فرستاده را باز خواند
✦
به تندی فراوان سخنها براند
“He summoned the envoy back to his pavilion and addressed him with fierce and bitter words.”
#193
بدو گفت کای ریمن پر فریب
✦
مگر کز فرازی ندیدی نشیب
“He said to him, "O deceitful trickster! Have you never learned that after every peak comes a steep decline?"”
#194
برفتی ز درگاه آن خوارشاه
✦
بدان تا مرا دام سازی به راه
“"You departed from the court of that degraded king solely to lay a trap for me along the way!"”
#195
به جنگ آوری پارسی لشکری
✦
زنی خیمه در مرغزار هری
“"To bring a Persian host to wage battle, and pitch your tents upon the meadow of Herat!"”
#196
چنین گفت خراد برزین به شاه
✦
که پیش سپاه تو اندک سپاه
“Khorrad-i Barzin replied to the king, "Compared to your vast host, this army is trifling indeed."”
#197
گر آید بزشتی گمانی مبر
✦
که این مرزبانی بود بر گذر
“"Harbor no evil suspicion; this may be merely a border lord passing through this transit."”
#198
وگر زینهاری یکی نامجوی
✦
ز کشور سوی شاه بنهاد روی
“"Or perhaps a seeker of renown who craves asylum has directed his course from his country to the king."”
#199
ور ایدون که بازارگانی سپاه
✦
بیاورد تا باشد ایمن به راه
“"Or perchance a merchant who has brought armed escorts to ensure his safety along the road."”
#200
که باشد که آرد بروی تو روی
✦
وگر کوه و دریا شود کینه جوی
“"Who would dare to stand face-to-face against you, even if the mountain and the sea turned vengeful?"”