#1
چو گودرز و چون رستم پهلوان
✦
بکردند رنجه برین بر روان
“When Goudarz and Rostam the champion endured such bitter anguish of soul,”
#2
ازان پس کجا شد بهاماوران
✦
ببستند پایش ببند گران
“When thereafter they were drawn to Hamavaran, and their feet were bound in heavy chains,”
#3
کس آهنگ این تخت شاهی نکرد
✦
جز از گرم و تیمار ایشان نخورد
“None dared reach out for the royal throne, nor sought aught save suffering and care for them.”
#4
چو گفتند با رستم ایرانیان
✦
که هستی تو زیبای تخت کیان
“When the Iranians said unto Rostam: 'Thou art truly worthy of the throne of Kayans,'”
#5
یکی بانگ برزد بر آن‌کس که گفت
✦
که با دخمهٔ تنگ باشید جفت
“He cried out fiercely at him who spoke: 'May the narrow grave be thy companion!'”
#6
که با شاه باشد کجا پهلوان
✦
نشستند بآیین و روشن روان
“'For the champion must ever stand with his King!' So they sat in righteous order and luminous spirit.”
#7
مرا تخت زر باید و بسته شاه
✦
مباد این گمان و مباد این کلاه
“'Should I desire a golden throne while the King is bound? Perish such a thought and perish such a crown!'”
#8
گزین کرد ز ایران ده و دو هزار
✦
جهانگیر و برگستوانور سوار
“He chose twelve thousand world-conquering, armored horsemen from the land of Iran,”
#9
رهانید از بند کاوس را
✦
همان گیو و گودرز و هم طوس را
“And freed Kavus from his chains, as well as Gev, Goudarz, and Tus.”
#10
همان شاه پیروز چون کشته شد
✦
بایرانیان کار برگشته شد
“Yet when that victorious king was slain, the fortune of Iranians turned to darkness.”
#11
دلاور شد از کار آن خوشنواز
✦
به آرام بنشست بر تخت ناز
“Emboldened by Khushnavaz's deeds, he sat at ease upon the throne of pleasure.”
#12
چو فرزند قارن بشد سوفرای
✦
که آورد گاه مهی باز جای
“When Karen's son Sufray arose to restore the noble seat to its rightful place,”
#13
ز پیروزی او چو آمد نشان
✦
ز ایران برفتند گردنکشان
“When news of his triumph spread, the proud lords of Iran departed,”
#14
که بر وی بشاهی کنند آفرین
✦
شود کهتری شهریار زمین
“Praising him for kingship, asking: 'Shall a noble's subject become ruler of the earth?'”
#15
بایرانیان گفت کین ناسزاست
✦
بزرگی وتاج از پی پادشاست
“He said to the Iranians: 'This is improper! Greatness and the crown belong solely to royalty.'”
#16
قباد ارچه خردست گردد بزرگ
✦
نیاریم در بیشهٔ شیر گرگ
“'Though Qobad be young, he shall grow great; we bring no wolf into the lion's lair.'”
#17
چو خواهی که شاهی کنی بی‌نژاد
✦
همه دوده را داد خواهی بباد
“'If thou seekest to rule without royal lineage, thou wilt scatter thy whole line to the wind.'”
#18
قباد آن زمان چون بمردی رسید
✦
سر سوفرای از در تاج دید
“Yet when Qobad reached full manhood, he deemed Sufray's head fit for the removal of the crown.”
#19
به گفتار بدگوهرانش بکشت
✦
کجا بود در پادشاهیش پشت
“At the words of evil slanderers he slew him—he who was the strong pillar of his kingdom.”
#20
وزان پس ببستند پای قباد
✦
دلاور سواری گوی کی‌نژاد
“Thereafter they bound the feet of Qobad—that brave horseman of Kayani lineage.”
#21
بزرمهر دادش یکی پرهنر
✦
که کین پدر بازخواهد مگر
“Zarmehr gave him a talented son, hoping he would avenge his father's blood.”
#22
نگه کرد زرمهر کس را ندید
✦
که با تاج بر تخت شاهی سزید
“Zarmehr looked around and saw no one worthy of sitting upon the throne with the crown except him.”
#23
چو بر شاه افگند زرمهر مهر
✦
برو آفرین خواند گردان سپهر
“When Zarmehr bestowed his devotion upon the King, the revolving heavens poured blessings upon him.”
#24
ازو بند برداشت تا کار خویش
✦
بجوید کند تیز بازار خویش
“He lifted the bonds from him so he might pursue his work and quicken his fortune.”
#25
کس از بندگان تاج هرگز نجست
✦
وگر چند بودی نژادش درست
“No servant ever sought the crown, no matter how noble his lineage might be.”
#26
ز ترکان یکی نامور ساوه‌شاه
✦
بیامد که جوید نگین و کلاه
“From the Turks, a famed warrior named Saveh-Shah came seeking the crown and signet.”
#27
چنان خواست روشن جهان‌آفرین
✦
که او نیست گردد به ایران زمین
“Thus willed the bright Creator of the world that he should perish in the land of Iran.”
#28
تو را آرزو تخت شاهنشهی
✦
چرا کرد زان پس که بودی رهی
“'Why dost thou now desire the Shah's throne, having been but a servant before?'”
#29
همی بر جهاند یلان سینه اسب
✦
که تا من ز بهرام پور گشسب
“Yalan-Sineh spurred his steed forward, saying: 'Until I, from Bahram son of Goshasp...'”
#30
بنو در جهان شهریاری کنم
✦
تن خویش را یادگاری کنم
“'...Establish a new sovereignty in the world and make my name a lasting memorial...'”
#31
خردمند شاهی چو نوشین روان
✦
بهرمز بدی روز پیری جوان
“'A wise king like Noshinravan had Hormozd to be as a youth in his old age.'”
#32
بزرگان کشور ورا یاورند
✦
اگر یاورانند گر کهترند
“'The nobles of the realm are his helpers, whether they be great or humble.'”
#33
به ایران سوارست سیصدهزار
✦
همه پهلوان و همه نامدار
“'In Iran there are three hundred thousand horsemen, all warriors and famed champions.'”
#34
همه یک‌بیک شاه را بنده‌اند
✦
بفرمان و رایش سرافگنده‌اند
“'All one by one are servants to the King, submitting to his decree and counsel.'”
#35
شهنشاه گیتی تو را برگزید
✦
چنان کز ره نامداران سزید
“'The Shahanshah of the world chose thee as befitted the tradition of noble men.'”
#36
نیاکانت را همچنین نام داد
✦
بفرجام بر دشمنان کام داد
“'He gave thy ancestors such renown, and in the end granted their desire over enemies.'”
#37
تو پاداش آن نیکویی بد کنی
✦
چنان دان که بد با تن خود کنی
“'Dost thou repay that goodness with evil? Know that thou doest evil unto thine own self!'”
#38
مکن آز را برخرد پادشا
✦
که دانا نخواند تو را پارسا
“'Suffer not greed to master wisdom, for the wise will not call thee virtuous.'”
#39
اگر من زنم پند مردان دهم
✦
ببسیار سال ازبرادر کهم
“'Though I offer the counsel of mature men, I am many years younger than my brother.'”
#40
مده کارکرد نیاکان بباد
✦
مبادا که پند من آیدت یاد
“'Do not waste the achievements of thy ancestors, lest my advice come to thy mind too late!'”
#41
همه انجمن ماند زودرشگفت
✦
سپهدار لب را بدندان گرفت
“The whole assembly remained in wonder; the war-commander bit his lip with his teeth.”
#42
بدانست کو راست گوید همی
✦
جز از راه نیکی نجوید همی
“He knew in his heart that she spoke truth, seeking naught save the path of righteousness.”
#43
یلان سینه گفت ای گرانمایه زن
✦
تو درانجمن رای شاهان مزن
“Yalan-Sineh spoke, saying: 'O noble woman, do not voice kings' counsel in the assembly!'”
#44
که هرمز بدین چندگه بگذرد
✦
زتخت مهی پهلوان برخورد
“'For Hormozd shall pass away in a few days, and the champion shall enjoy the throne of greatness.'”
#45
زهرمز چنین باشد اندر خبر
✦
برادرت را شاه ایران شمر
“'Such is the news regarding Hormozd; count thy brother as the King of Iran!'”
#46
بتاج کیی گر ننازد همی
✦
چراخلعت از دوک سازد همی
“If Hormoz does not boast of the Kayanid crown, why then does he fashion a robe of honor out of a spindle?”
#47
سخن بس کن ازهرمز ترک زاد
✦
که اندر زمانه مباد آن نژاد
“Cease speaking of Hormoz, the son of a Turkic mother! May such a lineage never exist in this world!”
#48
گر از کیقباد اندرآری شمار
✦
برین تخمهٔ بر سالیان صدهزار
“Even if you count back to Kay Qobad, hundreds of thousands of years have passed over that dynasty.”
#49
که با تاج بودند برتخت زر
✦
سرآمد کنون نام ایشان مبر
“They sat with crowns upon golden thrones, but their time has ended; speak no more of their names.”
#50
ز پرویز خسرو میندیش نیز
✦
کزویاد کردن نیرزد بچیز
“Trouble not your mind with Khosrow Parviz either, for remembering him is worth nothing at all.”
#51
بدرگاه او هرک ویژه‌ترند
✦
برادرت راکهتر وچاکرند
“At his court, those who are closest and most high-ranking are but humble servants and retainers to your brother.”
#52
چو بهرام گوید بران کهتران
✦
ببندند پایش ببند گران
“Whenever Bahram commands those servants, they will bind his feet in heavy iron fetters.”
#53
بدو گردیه گفت کای دیو ساز
✦
همی دیوتان دام سازد براز
“Gordyeh said to him, 'O demon-charmer! A demon is secretly weaving a perilous trap for you all!'”
#54
مکن برتن وجان ما بر ستم
✦
که از تو ببینم همی باد و دم
“Do not commit cruelty upon our lives and souls, for from your words I perceive nothing but empty, destructive noise.”
#55
پدر مرزبان بود مارا بری
✦
تو افگندی این جستن تخت پی
“Our father was a loyal border-defender for us; it is you who have laid the foundation for seeking the crown!”
#56
چو بهرام را دل بجوش آوری
✦
تبار مرا درخروش آوری
“When you inflame the heart of Bahram, you plunge my entire family and lineage into turmoil and distress.”
#57
شود رنج این تخمهٔ ما بباد
✦
به گفتار تو کهتر بدنژاد
“All the labor and honor of our lineage will be scattered to the wind through the words of a base-born courtier like you.”
#58
کنون راهبر باش بهرام را
✦
پرآشوب کن بزم و آرام را
“Now go, lead Bahram astray! Fill both the banquet and peace with turmoil and chaos!”
#59
بگفت این وگریان سوی خانه شد
✦
به دل با برادر چو بیگانه شد
“She spoke thus and went weeping to her quarters, feeling in her heart estranged from her brother.”
#60
همی‌گفت هرکس که این پاک زن
✦
سخن گوی و روشن دل و رای زن
“Everyone said: 'What a pure, chaste woman—eloquent, enlightened, and wise counselor!'”
#61
تو گویی که گفتارش از دفترست
✦
بدانش ز جاماسب نامی ترست
“You would say her words spring from sacred books; in wisdom, she is even more renowned than Jamasp.”
#62
چو بهرام را آن نیامد پسند
✦
همی‌بود ز آواز خواهر نژند
“Yet since Bahram found those words unacceptable, he remained gloomy and aggrieved by his sister's voice.”
#63
دل تیره اندیشهٔ دیریاب
✦
همی تخت شاهی نمودش بخواب
“His dark heart harbored deep-seated ambitions, so that even in his dreams he saw the royal crown and throne.”
#64
چنین گفت پس کین سرای سپنج
✦
نیابند جویندگان جز به رنج
“He then said, 'In this transient world, seekers attain nothing except through toil and struggle.'”
#65
بفرمود تا خوان بیاراستند
✦
می و رود و رامشگران خواستند
“He commanded the banquet table to be laid, and called for wine, lutes, and minstrels.”
#66
برامشگری گفت کامروز رود
✦
بیارای با پهلوانی سرود
“He said to a minstrel, 'Today, tune your lute to heroic epic songs!'”
#67
نخوانیم جز نامهٔ هفتخوان
✦
برین می‌گساریم لختی بخوان
“'Let us recite nothing but the Tale of the Seven Trials; recite a portion of it while we drink this wine.'”
#68
که چون شد برویین دز اسفندیار
✦
چه بازی نمود اندران روزگار
“'Sing of how Esfandiyar marched upon the Brazen Fortress, and what brave deeds he performed in that era!'”
#69
بخوردند بر یاد او چند می
✦
که آباد بادا برو بوم ری
“They drank several goblets of wine in his memory, saying, 'May the land of Ray forever prosper!'”
#70
کزان بوم خیزد سپهبد چوتو
✦
فزون آفریناد ایزد چو تو
“'For from that land arises a commander like you; may God create many more heroes such as you!'”
#71
پراگنده گشتند چون تیره شد
✦
سرمیگساران ز می‌خیره شد
“When darkness fell, they dispersed, as the heads of the wine-drinkers grew heavy and dazed.”
#72
چو برزد سنان آفتاب بلند
✦
شب تیره گشت از درفشش نژند
“When the high sun raised its golden spear, the dark night was put to shame by its shining banner.”
#73
سپهدار بهرام گرد سترگ
✦
بفرمود تا شد دبیر بزرگ
“The mighty commander, Bahram the brave, summoned his grand scribe to his presence.”
#74
بخاقان یکی نامه ارتنگ وار
✦
نبشتند پربوی ورنگ ونگار
“They wrote a letter to the Khaqan, masterfully composed like Mani's Arzhang, filled with fragrance, color, and art.”
#75
بپوزش کنان گفت هستم بدرد
✦
دلی پرپشیمانی و باد سرد
“Offering apologies, he wrote: 'I am in grief, with a heart full of regret and cold sighs.'”
#76
ازین پس من آن بوم و مرز تو را
✦
نگه دارم از بهر ارز تو را
“'From this day forth, I shall protect your realm and border out of respect for your dignity.'”
#77
اگر بر جهان پاک مهتر شوم
✦
تو را همچو کهتر برادر شوم
“'If I become the supreme ruler of the world, I shall be to you like a younger, loyal brother.'”
#78
توباید که دل را بشویی زکین
✦
نداری جدا بوم ایران ز چین
“'You too must cleanse your heart of malice, and consider the realms of Iran and China as one.'”
#79
چوپردخته شد زین دگر ساز کرد
✦
درگنج گرد آمده باز کرد
“When he finished with this matter, he set about other preparations and opened the doors of his accumulated treasure.”
#80
سپه را درم داد واسب ورهی
✦
نهانی همی‌جست جای مهی
“He distributed coins, horses, and servants to his army, secretly seeking the highest station of kingship.”
#81
زلشکر یکی پهلوان برگزید
✦
که سالار بوم خراسان سزید
“From his army he chose a champion, one worthy to be the commander of the land of Khorasan.”
#82
پراندیشه از بلخ شد سوی ری
✦
بخرداد فرخنده درماه دی
“Full of anxious thought, he moved from Balkh toward Ray, on the auspicious day of Khordad in the month of Dey.”
#83
همی‌کرد اندیشه دربیش وکم
✦
بفرمود پس تا سرای درم
“He pondered deeply over every matter, big and small, and then commanded that the minting house...”
#84
بسازند وآرایشی نو کنند
✦
درم مهر برنام خسرو کنند
“...be readied and newly decorated, and coins stamped in the name of Khosrow.”
#85
ز بازارگان آنک بد پاک مغز
✦
سخنگوی و اندرخور کار نغز
“From the merchants, he chose one of pure intellect, eloquent and adept at fine craftsmanship and strategy.”
#86
به مهر آن درمها ببدره درون
✦
بفرمود بردن سوی طیسفون
“He ordered those coins, stamped with the seal, to be placed in purses and carried to Ctesiphon.”
#87
بیارید پرمایه دیبای روم
✦
که پیکر بریشم بد و زرش بوم
“He also said: "Bring precious Roman brocade, decorated with silk figures on a background of woven gold..."”
#88
بخرید تا آن درم نزدشاه
✦
برند وکند مهر او را نگاه
“"...and buy it, so that those coins and gifts may be brought before the Shah, that he may gaze upon Khosrow's name stamped thereon."”
#89
فرستاده‌ای خواند با شرم و هوش
✦
دلاور بسان خجسته سروش
“He summoned an envoy possessed of wisdom and dignity, courageous and noble like the blessed Soroush.”
#90
یکی نامه بنوشت با باد و دم
✦
سخن گفت هرگونه ازبیش و کم
“He wrote a letter full of pride and passion, speaking of all manner of matters, great and small.”
#91
ز پرموده و لشکر ساوه شاه
✦
ز رزمی کجا کرده بد با سپاه
“Of Parmudah and the host of King Saveh, and of the fierce battles he had fought with his army.”
#92
وزان خلعتی کآمد او را ز شاه
✦
ز مقناع وز دوکدان سیاه
“And of the robe of dishonor sent to him by the Shah—the veil and the black spindle-box.”
#93
چنین گفت زان پس که هرگز بخواب
✦
نبینم رخ شاه با جاه و آب
“He then wrote: "Never again, even in a dream, shall I look upon the radiant and glorious face of the Shah!”
#94
هرآنگه که خسرو نشیند بتخت
✦
پسرت آن گرانمایهٔ نیکبخت
“But whenever Khosrow ascends the throne—that noble and fortunate son of yours—”
#95
بفرمان او کوه هامون کنم
✦
بیابان زدشمن چو جیحون کنم
“By his command I shall flatten mountains into plains, and drown the deserts in a Jayhun of enemy blood!"”
#96
همی‌خواست تا بردرشهریار
✦
سرآرد مگر بی‌گنه روزگار
“He sought only to bring his life to a close at the King's court, as an innocent man.”
#97
همی‌یادکرد این به نامه درون
✦
فرستاده آمد سوی طیسفون
“All this he recounted in the letter, and the messenger set forth toward Ctesiphon.”
#98
ببازارگان گفت مهر درم
✦
چو هرمزد بیند بپیچد زغم
“He had said to the merchant: "When Hormozd sees the seal upon these coins, he will twist in bitter grief;”
#99
چو خسرو نباشد ورا یاروپشت
✦
ببیند ز من روزگار درشت
“When he no longer has Khosrow as his ally and support, he will suffer harsh days at my hands.”
#100
چو آزرمها بر زمین برزنم
✦
همی بیخ ساسان زبن برکنم
“When I cast all respect to the ground, I shall tear up the root of Sasan from its very foundation!”
#101
نه آن تخمهٔ را کرد یزدان زمین
✦
گه آمد که برخیزد آن آفرین
“God did not create this earth solely for that lineage; the time has come for their praise to cease."”
#102
بیامد فرستادهٔ نیک پی
✦
ببغداد با نامداران ری
“The auspicious envoy arrived in Baghdad, accompanied by the nobles of Ray.”
#103
چونامه به نزدیک هرمز رسید
✦
رخش گشت زان نامه چون شنبلید
“When the letter reached King Hormozd, his face turned yellow as fenugreek from its contents.”
#104
پس آگاهی آمد ز مهر درم
✦
یکایک بران غم بیفزود غم
“Then news arrived of the coins stamped with Khosrow's seal, and sorrow was piled upon sorrow for him.”
#105
بپیچید و شد بر پسر بدگمان
✦
بگفت این به آیین گشسب آن زمان
“He writhed in distress and grew deeply suspicious of his son; at that moment, he revealed this to Ayyin-Goshasb:”
#106
که خسرو بمردی بجایی رسید
✦
که از ما همی سر بخواهد کشید
“"Khosrow has grown so powerful through his boldness that he now wishes to turn his face from my command!”
#107
درم را همی مهر سازد بنیز
✦
سبک داشتن بیشتر زین چه چیز
“He even strikes coins bearing his own seal—what greater disrespect could there be than this?"”
#108
به پاسخ چنین گفت آیین گشسب
✦
که بی‌تو مبیناد میدان و اسب
“In answer, Ayyin-Goshasb said: "May the battlefield and the steed never behold a day without you!”
#109
بدو گفت هرمز که درناگهان
✦
مر این شوخ را گم کنم ازجهان
“Hormozd said to him: "In secret and swiftness, I shall wipe this insolent youth from the face of the world!"”
#110
نهانی یکی مرد راخواندند
✦
شب تیره با شاه بنشاندند
“In secret, they summoned a man and sat him beside the King in the dark of night.”
#111
بدو گفت هرمزد فرمان گزین
✦
ز خسرو بپرداز روی زمین
“Hormozd said to him: "Obey my command and rid the face of the earth of Khosrow!"”
#112
چنین داد پاسخ که ایدون کنم
✦
به افسون ز دل مهر بیرون کنم
“The assassin replied: "So shall I do; by dark magic and trickery, I shall purge all love from my heart.”
#113
کنون زهر فرماید از گنج شاه
✦
چو او مست گردد شبان سیاه
“Now order poison from the royal treasury, so when he becomes intoxicated in the dark night...”
#114
کنم زهر با می‌بجام اندرون
✦
ازان به کجا دست یازم به خون
“...I may mix that poison with the wine in his goblet; for that is far better than shedding blood with my own hand."”
#115
ازین ساختن حاجب آگاه شد
✦
برو خواب وآرام کوتاه شد
“The royal chamberlain became aware of this plot, and sleep and tranquility fled from him.”
#116
بیامد دوان پیش خسرو بگفت
✦
همه رازها برگشاد ازنهفت
“He came running to Khosrow and spoke, revealing all secrets from their hidden depths.”
#117
چوبشنید خسروکه شاه جهان
✦
همی‌کشتن او سگالد نهان
“When Khosrow heard that the king of the world was secretly plotting his death,”
#118
شب تیره از طیسفون درکشید
✦
توگفتی که گشت از جهان ناپدید
“Under the dark of night, he slipped away from Ctesiphon, as though he had vanished from the earth.”
#119
نداد آن سر پر بها رایگان
✦
همی‌تاخت تا آذر ابادگان
“He did not yield his precious life easily, galloping swiftly all the way to Azarbaijan.”
#120
چو آگاهی آمد بهرمهتری
✦
که بد مرزبان و سرکشوری
“When word reached every great lord, ruler, and frontier warden of the realm,”
#121
که خسرو بیازرد از شهریار
✦
برفتست با خوار مایه سوار
“That Khosrow had fallen out with the King and had fled with only a handful of horsemen,”
#122
بپرسش گرفتند گردنکشان
✦
بجایی که بود از گرامی نشان
“The proud nobles sought news of him, searching for where that precious prince was to be found.”
#123
چو بادان پیروز و چون شیر زیل
✦
که با داد بودند و با زور پیل
“Men like Badan the Victorious and Shir-i Zil, endowed with justice and the strength of an elephant,”
#124
چو شیران و وستوی یزدان پرست
✦
ز عمان چو خنجست و چون پیل مست
“Like Shiran, and the God-fearing Vastoy, along with Khanjast from Oman, like a drunken elephant,”
#125
ز کرمان چو بیورد گرد و سوار
✦
ز شیران چون سام اسفندیار
“From Kerman came Bayvard, a warrior knight, who was among the lions like Sam, son of Esfandiyar,”
#126
یکایک بخسرو نهادند روی
✦
سپاه و سپهبد همه شاهجوی
“One and all turned their faces toward Khosrow, army and commanders alike seeking their rightful king.”
#127
همی‌گفت هرکس که ای پور شاه
✦
تو را زیبد این تاج و تخت وکلاه
“Each one proclaimed: 'O prince of the King! To you alone belong this crown, throne, and royal diadem.'”
#128
از ایران و از دشت نیزه وران
✦
ز خنجر گزاران و جنگی سران
“'From Iran and the plains of spear-wielders, from valiant swordsmen and warlike chiefs,'”
#129
نگر تا نداری هراس از گزند
✦
بزی شاد و آرام و دل ارجمند
“'Take care to harbor no fear of harm; live joyful, at ease, and proud in heart!'”
#130
زمانی بنخچیر تازیم اسب
✦
زمانی نوان پیش آذر کشسب
“'At times we shall ride our horses to the hunt, and at other times bow humbly before the fire of Azar Goshasp.'”
#131
برسم نیاکان نیایش کنیم
✦
روان را به یزدان نمایش کنیم
“'We shall worship after the custom of our ancestors, and present our souls before God.'”
#132
گراز شهر ایران چو سیصد هزار
✦
گزند تو را بر نشیند سوار
“'Even if three hundred thousand horsemen should ride out from Iran to bring you harm,'”
#133
همه پیش تو تن بکشتن دهیم
✦
سپاسی بران کشتگان برنهیم
“'We will all lay down our lives before you, honoring those who fall in your cause.'”
#134
بدیشان چنین گفت خسرو که من
✦
پرازبیمم از شاه و آن انجمن
“Khosrow spoke to them in reply: 'I am filled with dread of the King and his assembly.'”
#135
اگرپیش آذر گشسب این سران
✦
بیایند و سوگندهای گران
“'If these chieftains come before the sacred fire of Azar Goshasp and take solemn oaths,'”
#136
خورند و مرا یکسر ایمن کنند
✦
که پیمان من زان سپس نشکنند
“'Swearing to keep me entirely safe, promising that they will never break their pledge to me,'”
#137
بباشم بدین مرز با ایمنی
✦
نترسم ز پیکار آهرمنی
“'Then I shall remain in this realm in safety, fearing no demonic strife.'”
#138
یلان چون شنیدند گفتار اوی
✦
همه سوی آذر نهادند روی
“When the heroes heard his words, they all set off toward the sacred fire of Azar Goshasp.”
#139
بخوردند سوگند زان سان که خواست
✦
که مهرتو با دیده داریم راست
“They swore the oath just as he desired, saying: 'We cherish our love for you as dearly as our eyes.'”
#140
چوایمن شد از نامداران نهان
✦
ز هر سو برافگند کارآگهان
“When he felt secure from any hidden betrayal among the nobles, he dispatched intelligence spies in every direction.”
#141
بفرمان خسرو سواران دلیر
✦
بدرگاه رفتند برسان شیر
“By Khosrow's command, brave riders rode to the court like lions,”
#142
که تا از گریزش چه گوید پدر
✦
مگر چارهٔ نو بسازد دگر
“To learn what his father would say regarding his flight, or if he would devise some new scheme.”
#143
چوبشنید هرمز که خسرو برفت
✦
هم اندر زمان کس فرستاد تفت
“When Hormoz heard that Khosrow had fled, he immediately dispatched an envoy in haste.”
#144
چوگستهم و بندوی را کرد بند
✦
به زندان فرستاد ناسودمند
“He put Gustahm and Bandoy in chains and cast them into a harsh prison.”
#145
کجا هردو خالان خسرو بدند
✦
بمردانگی در جهان نو بدند
“For both were maternal uncles to Khosrow, renowned in the world for their novel prowess.”
#146
جزین هرک بودند خویشان اوی
✦
به زندان کشیدند با گفت وگوی
“Besides them, whoever was related to him was dragged into prison amid much contention.”
#147
به آیین گشسب آن زمان شاه گفت
✦
که از رای دوریم و با باد جفت
“The King then spoke to A'in Goshasp: 'We are far from wisdom and bound to empty wind.'”
#148
چو او شد چه سازیم بهرام را
✦
چنان بندهٔ خرد و بدکام را
“'Now that Khosrow is gone, how shall we deal with Bahram—that petty and malicious servant?'”
#149
شد آیین گشسب اندران چاره جوی
✦
که آن کار را چون دهد رنگ وبوی
“A'in Goshasp set out to find a solution, seeking how to shape and solve that difficult matter.”
#150
بدو گفت کای شاه گردن فراز
✦
سخنهای بهرام چون شد دراز
“He said to him: 'O exalted King, since the matter of Bahram has grown overly prolonged and complex...'”
#151
همه خون من جوید اندر نهان
✦
نخستین زمن گشت خسته روان
“He secretly seeks my blood; his spirit was first wounded by me.”
#152
مرا نزد او پای کرده ببند
✦
فرستی مگر باشدت سودمند
“If you send me bound in fetters to him, perhaps it might prove beneficial to you.”
#153
بدو گفت شاه این نه کارمنست
✦
که این رای بدگوهر آهرمنست
“The King said to him, "This is no deed of mine; this evil-natured design belongs to Ahriman."”
#154
سپاهی فرستم تو سالار باش
✦
برزم اندرون دست بردار باش
“"I shall send an army, and you shall be its commander; in battle, be swift and victorious."”
#155
نخستین فرستیش یک رهنمون
✦
بدان تا چه بینی به سرش اندرون
“"First send an envoy to him, so you may discern what thoughts dwell within his head."”
#156
اگر مهتری جوید و تاج و تخت
✦
بپیچد بفرجام ازو روی بخت
“"If he seeks greatness and the crown and throne, fortune shall ultimately turn its face away from him."”
#157
وگر همچنین نیز کهتر بود
✦
بفرجامش آرام بهتر بود
“"And if he remains a humble subject, his ultimate state will be far more peaceful."”
#158
ز گیتی یکی بهره او را دهم
✦
کلاه یلانش به سر برنهم
“"I will grant him a portion of the realm and place the crown of champions upon his head."”
#159
مرا یکسر از کارش آگاه کن
✦
درنگی مکن کارکوتاه کن
“"Keep me fully informed of his actions; do not delay, act swiftly."”
#160
همی‌ساخت آیین گشسب این سخن
✦
کجا شاه فرزانه افگند بن
“Ayin-Goshasp began preparing according to these words, the foundation of which the wise king had laid.”
#161
یکی مرد بد بسته از شهر اوی
✦
به زندان شاه اندرون چاره جوی
“There was a bound man from his hometown, seeking a way out inside the king's prison.”
#162
چوبشنید کیین گشسب سوار
✦
همی‌رفت خواهد سوی کارزار
“When he heard that the knight Ayin-Goshasp was about to march forth to battle,”
#163
کسی را ززندان به نزدیک اوی
✦
فرستاد کای مهتر نامجوی
“He sent someone from prison to Ayin-Goshasp, saying, "O renowned chieftain!"”
#164
زشهرت یکی مرد زندانیم
✦
نگویم همانا که خود دانیم
“"I am a prisoner from your hometown; I need not introduce myself, for surely you know me."”
#165
مرا گر بخواهی توازشهریار
✦
دوان با توآیم برین کارزار
“"If you request my release from the monarch, I will run alongside you into this battle."”
#166
به پیش تو جان رابکوشم به جنگ
✦
چو یابم رهایی ز زندان تنگ
“"I will fight fiercely and risk my life before you, once I gain freedom from this narrow prison."”
#167
فرستاد آیین گشسب آن زمان
✦
کسی را بر شاه گیتی دمان
“Thereupon Ayin-Goshasp swiftly dispatched a messenger to the king of the world,”
#168
که همشهری من ببند اندرست
✦
به زندان ببیم و گزند اندرست
“Saying: "A fellow townsman of mine is in chains, dwelling in prison under fear and distress."”
#169
بمن بخشد او را جهاندار شاه
✦
بدان تاکنون با من آید به راه
“"May the ruler of the world grant him to me, so that he may accompany me now on the road."”
#170
بدو گفت شاه آن بد نابکار
✦
به پیش تو درکی کند کارزار
“The King said to him, "How could that wicked, villainous man ever fight valiantly before you?"”
#171
یکی مرد خونریز و بیکار و دزد
✦
بخواهی ز من چشم داری بمزد
“"You request a bloodthirsty, idle thief from me, and even expect a reward for it?"”
#172
ولیکن کنون زین سخن چاره نیست
✦
اگر زو بتر نیز پتیاره نیست
“"Yet now there is no choice in this matter, even if no monster is worse than he."”
#173
بدو داد مرد بد آمیز را
✦
چنان بدکنش دیو خونریز را
“He surrendered that corrupt villain to him—that evil-doing, bloodthirsty demon.”
#174
بیاورد آیین گشسب آن سپاه
✦
همی‌راند چون باد لشکر به راه
“Ayin-Goshasp gathered that army and drove the troops swiftly along the road like the wind.”
#175
بدین گونه تا شهر همدان رسید
✦
بجایی که لشکر فرود آورید
“In this manner he reached the city of Hamadan, to the place where he dismounted his army.”
#176
بپرسید تا زان گرانمایه شهر
✦
کسی دارد از اختر و فال بهر
“He inquired whether anyone in that noble city possessed knowledge of the stars and omens.”
#177
بدو گفت هر کس که اخترشناس
✦
بنزد تو آید پذیرد سپاس
“Everyone said to him: "Any astrologer who comes before you will be received with gratitude."”
#178
یکی پیرزن مایه دار ایدرست
✦
که گویی مگر دیدهٔ اخترست
“"There is a capable old woman here who seems as though she were the very eye of the stars."”
#179
سخن هرچ گوید نیاید جز آن
✦
بگوید بتموز رنگ خزان
“"Whatever word she speaks comes to pass without fail; she can foretell autumn's hues in the heat of midsummer."”
#180
چوبشنید گفتارش آیین گشسب
✦
هم اندر زمان کس فرستاد و اسب
“When Ayin-Goshasp heard this account, he immediately dispatched a messenger and a steed.”
#181
چوآمد بپرسیدش ازکارشاه
✦
وزان کو بیاورد لشکر به راه
“When she arrived, he asked her regarding the king's fate and about his own marching army.”
#182
بدو گفت ازین پس تو درگوش من
✦
یکی لب بجنبان که تا هوش من
“He said to her, "From now on, whisper softly in my ear, so that my awareness..."”
#183
ببستر برآید زتیره تنم
✦
وگر خسته ازخنجر دشمنم
“"...shall know whether my soul leaves this dark body in bed, or if I am slain by an enemy's dagger."”
#184
همی‌گفت با پیرزن راز خویش
✦
نهان کرده ازهرکس آواز خویش
“Thus he revealed his secret to the old woman, concealing his voice from all others.”
#185
میان اندران مرد کو را زشاه
✦
رهانید و با او بیامد به راه
“Meanwhile, that very man whom he had freed from the King, and who had accompanied him on the journey...”
#186
به پیش زن فالگو برگذشت
✦
بمهتر نگه کرد واندر گذشت
“He passed before a fortune-telling woman; she looked at the leader and passed by.”
#187
بدو پیرزن گفت کین مرد کیست
✦
که از زخم او برتو باید گریست
“The old woman said to him: 'Who is this man, for whose blow one must weep over you?'”
#188
پسندیده هوش تو بردست اوست
✦
که مه مغز بادش بتن در مه پوست
“'Your appointed death lies at his hands—may he have neither brain in body nor skin!'”
#189
چوبشنید آیین گشسب این سخن
✦
بیاد آمدش گفت و گوی کهن
“When Aein-Goshasb heard this, an ancient prophecy returned to his mind,”
#190
که از گفت اخترشناسان شنید
✦
همی‌کرد برخویشتن ناپدید
“Which he had heard from the astrologers' mouths, and had tried to conceal from himself:”
#191
که هوش تو بر دست همسایه‌ای
✦
یکی دزد و بیکار و بیمایه ای
“'That your death will come at a neighbor's hand—a thief, idle and worthless.'”
#192
برآید به راه دراز اندرون
✦
تو زاری کنی او بریزدت خون
“'He shall rise up upon a long journey; while you weep, he will shed your blood.'”
#193
یکی نامه بنوشت نزدیک شاه
✦
که این را کجا خواستستم به راه
“He wrote a letter to the king, saying: 'Why did I request this man to accompany me on the road?'”
#194
نبایست کردن ز زندان رها
✦
که این بتر از تخمهٔ اژدها
“'He should not have been freed from prison, for he is worse than the seed of a dragon.'”
#195
همی‌گفت شاه این سخن با رهی
✦
رهی را نبد فر شاهنشهی
“'The King warned this servant of it, but this servant possessed no royal divine grace.'”
#196
چوآید بفرمای تا درزمان
✦
ببرد بخنجر سرش بدگمان
“'When he arrives, order at once that they sever the head of this treacherous man with a dagger.'”
#197
نبشت و نهاد از برش مهر خویش
✦
چو شد خشک همسایه را خواند پیش
“He wrote and set his seal upon it; when the ink dried, he summoned his neighbor forward.”
#198
فراوانش بستود و بخشید چیز
✦
بسی برمنش آفرین کرد نیز
“He praised him greatly, bestowed gifts upon him, and showered blessings on his mind.”
#199
بدو گفت کین نامه اندر نهان
✦
ببرزود نزدیک شاه جهان
“He said to him: 'Deliver this letter secretly and swiftly to the King of the World.'”
#200
چوپاسخ کند زود نزد من آر
✦
نگر تا نباشی بر شهریار
“'When he replies, bring it back to me quickly; ensure you do not linger before the ruler.'”
#201
ازو بستد آن نامه مرد جوان
✦
زرفتن پر اندیشه بودش روان
“The young man took the letter from him, his spirit heavy with suspicion about the journey.”
#202
همی‌گفت زندان و بندگران
✦
کشیدم بدم ناچمان و چران
“He said to himself: 'I suffered prison and heavy chains, unable to roam or feed in peace.'”
#203
رهانید یزدان ازان سختیم
✦
ازان گرم و تیمار و بدبختیم
“'God delivered me from that hardship, from that anguish, sorrow, and ill fate.'”
#204
کنون باز گردم سوی طیسفون
✦
بجوش آمد اندر تنم مغز وخون
“'Should I now return to Ctesiphon? The blood and marrow boil within my body!'”
#205
زمانی همی بد بره بر نژند
✦
پس از نامه شاه بگشاد بند
“For a moment he stayed downcast on the road; then he broke the seal of the king's letter.”
#206
چوآن نامهٔ پهلوان را بخواند
✦
زکار جهان در شگفتی بماند
“When he read the paladin's letter, he was left in utter astonishment at the world's turn.”
#207
که این مرد همسایه جانم بخواست
✦
همی‌گفت کین مهتری را سزاست
“'So this neighboring man sought my life, while claiming this was fitting for his greatness!'”
#208
به خون‌م کنون گر شتاب آمدش
✦
مگر یاد زین بد بخواب آمدش
“'If he now hastens to shed my blood, perhaps the memory of this evil came to him in sleep.'”
#209
ببیند کنون رای خون ریختن
✦
بیاساید از رنج و آویختن
“'Now he shall see the true cost of bloodshed, and be relieved from strife and anguish!'”
#210
پراندیشه دل زره بازگشت
✦
چنان بد که با باد انباز گشت
“With an anxious heart he turned back from the road, riding as fast as if paired with the wind.”
#211
چو نزدیک آن نامور شد ز راه
✦
کسی را ندید اندران بارگاه
“When he drew near that famous chieftain, he saw no one guarding the camp.”
#212
نشسته بخیمه درآیین گشسب
✦
نه کهتر نه یاور نه شمشیر واسب
“Aein-Goshasb sat alone within his tent—with no servant, helper, sword, or horse.”
#213
دلش پر ز اندیشه شهریار
✦
نگر تا چه پیش آردش روزگار
“His heart was full of anxiety for the king, watching to see what fortune would bring.”
#214
چو همسایه آمد بخیمه درون
✦
بدانست کو دست یازد به خون
“When the neighbor stepped inside the tent, Aein-Goshasb knew he was stretching out his hand for blood.”
#215
بشمشیرزد دست خونخوار مرد
✦
جهانجوی چندی برو لابه کرد
“The bloodthirsty man reached for his sword, while the noble hero pleaded with him for a moment.”
#216
بدو گفت کای مرد گم کرده راه
✦
نه من خواستم رفته جانت ز شاه
“He said to him: 'O misguided man! Was it not I who asked the king to spare your life?'”
#217
چنین داد پاسخ که گرخواستی
✦
چه کردم که بدکردن آراستی
“He replied: 'If you spared my life, what did I do that you prepared evil against me?'”
#218
بزد گردن مهتر نامدار
✦
سرآمد بدو بزم و هم کارزار
“He struck off the neck of the renowned chieftain, bringing an end to his feasts and battles.”
#219
زخیمه بیاورد بیرون سرش
✦
که آگه نبد زان سخن لشکرش
“He brought his head out of the tent, while his army remained unaware of the deed.”
#220
مبادا که تنها بود نامجوی
✦
بویژه که دارد سوی جنگ روی
“May a seeker of renown never be left alone, especially when he turns his face toward war!”
#221
چو از خون آن کشته بدنام شد
✦
همی‌تاخت تا پیش بهرام شد
“Stained with bad fame by the blood of the slain, he galloped post-haste till he reached Bahram.”
#222
بدو گفت اینک سردشمنت
✦
کجا بد سگالیده بد برتنت
“He said to him: 'Lo, here is the head of your enemy, who was secretly plotting evil against your life.'”
#223
که با لشکر آمد همی پیش تو
✦
نبد آگه از رای کم بیش تو
“'He was marching against you at the head of an army, unaware of your true strength and resolve.'”
#224
بپرسید بهرام کین مرد کیست
✦
بدین سربگیتی که خواهد گریست
“Bahram asked: 'Who was this man? For whose head in this world shall people now weep?'”
#225
بدو گفت آیین گشسب سوار
✦
که آمد به جنگ از در شهریار
“He answered: 'It is the horseman Aein-Goshasp, who came forth to battle from the King's court.'”
#226
بدو گفت بهرام کین پارسا
✦
بدان رفته بود از در پادشا
“Bahram replied: 'That righteous man had come forth from the royal threshold...'”
#227
که با شاه ما را دهد آشتی
✦
بخواب اندرون سرش برداشتی
“'...to reconcile the King with us; yet while he slept, you severed his head!'”
#228
تو باد افره یابی اکنون زمن
✦
که بر تو بگریند زار انجمن
“'Now you shall suffer punishment at my hands, such that a whole assembly shall weep bitterly over you!'”
#229
بفرمود داری زدن بر درش
✦
نظاره بران لشکر و کشورش
“He commanded a gallows to be raised at his gate, in full view of his troops and the realm.”
#230
نگون بخت را زنده بردار کرد
✦
دل مرد بدکار بیدار کرد
“He hanged that wretched traitor alive, thus bringing awakening and terror to the hearts of evil men.”
#231
سواران که آیین گشسب سوار
✦
بیاورده بود از در شهریار
“The horsemen whom Aein-Goshasp the warrior had brought from the court of the Shah...”
#232
چوکار سپهبد بفرجام شد
✦
زلشکر بسی پیش بهرام شد
“When their commander's fate was sealed, many from that army went over to Bahram.”
#233
بسی نیز نزدیک خسرو شدند
✦
بمردانگی در جهان نو شدند
“Many others also joined Khosrow, starting a new chapter in world bravery.”
#234
چنان شد که از بی شبانی رمه
✦
پراگنده گردد به روز دمه
“It came to pass as a flock without a shepherd, scattered abroad on a dark, stormy day.”
#235
چوآگاهی آمد بر شهریار
✦
ز آیین گشسب آنک بد نامدار
“When tidings reached the King regarding the fate of the famous Aein-Goshasp...”
#236
ز تنگی دربار دادن ببست
✦
ندیدش کسی نیز بامی بدست
“In deep distress he closed his doors to all audiences; no one saw him anymore with a cup in hand.”
#237
برآمد ز آرام وز خورد و خواب
✦
همی‌بود با دیدگان پر آب
“Rest, food, and sleep all departed from him; he remained with eyes forever filled with tears.”
#238
بدربر سخن رفت چندی ز شاه
✦
که پرده فروهشت از بارگاه
“At the palace gate, whispers spread regarding the King, who had lowered the curtains of his court.”
#239
یکی گفت بهرام شد جنگجوی
✦
بتخت بزرگی نهادست روی
“One said: 'Bahram has turned warlike and set his sights directly upon the throne of power!'”
#240
دگر گفت خسرو ز آزار شاه
✦
همی سوی ایران گذارد سپاه
“Another said: 'Khosrow, wounded by the King's spite, is leading his army towards Iran.'”
#241
بماندند زان کار گردان شگفت
✦
همی هرکسی رای دیگر گرفت
“The warriors remained bewildered by these turn of events, each adopting a different opinion.”
#242
چو در طیسفون برشد این گفتگوی
✦
ازان پادشاهی بشد رنگ وبوی
“As these rumors mounted in Ctesiphon, all splendor and honor vanished from the kingdom.”
#243
سربندگان پرشد از درد و کین
✦
گزیدند نفرینش بر آفرین
“The minds of his subjects grew full of pain and spite; they chose to curse him rather than offer praise.”
#244
سپاه اندکی بد بدرگاه بر
✦
جهان تنگ شد بر دل شاه بر
“Few soldiers remained at the court, and the world grew constricted and narrow in the Shah's heart.”
#245
ببندوی و گستهم شد آگهی
✦
که تیره شد آن فر شاهنشهی
“Tidings reached Bandoi and Gostahm that the royal glory of the King had darkened.”
#246
همه بستگان بند برداشتند
✦
یکی را بران کار بگماشتند
“All the captives threw off their bonds, appointing one among them to oversee their cause.”
#247
کزان آگهی بازجوید که چیست
✦
ز جنگ آوران بر در شاه کیست
“To seek out exact news of what was occurring, and see who among the warriors stood at the King's door.”
#248
ز کار زمانه چو آگه شدند
✦
ز فرمان بگشتند و بی‌ره شدند
“When they realized how time was unfolding, they renounced obedience and broke away from the lawful path.”
#249
شکستند زندان و برشد خروش
✦
بران سان که هامون برآید بجوش
“They shattered the prison walls, and a roar arose like a boiling, turbulent plain.”
#250
بشهر اندرون هرک بد لشکری
✦
بماندند بیچاره زان داوری
“Whichever soldiers were in the city remained helpless and bewildered before this commotion.”
#251
همی‌رفت گستهم و بندوی پیش
✦
زره دار با لشکر و ساز خویش
“Gostahm and Bandoi marched in the lead, fully armored with their army and battle gear.”
#252
یکایک ز دیده بشستند شرم
✦
سواران بدرگاه رفتند گرم
“One and all cast shame from their eyes; the horsemen marched fiercely toward the court.”
#253
ز بازار پیش سپاه آمدند
✦
دلاور بدرگاه شاه آمدند
“Passing through the market, they advanced ahead of the army, arriving valiantly at the King's palace.”
#254
که گر گشت خواهید با مایکی
✦
مجویید آزرم شاه اندکی
“Saying: 'If you wish to unite as one with us, show not the slightest respect or mercy to the King!'”
#255
که هرمز بگشته‌ست از رای و راه
✦
ازین پس مر اورا مخوانید شاه
“'For Hormoz has strayed from wisdom and the true path; henceforth, call him King no more!'”
#256
بباد افره او بیازید دست
✦
برو بر کنید آب ایران کبست
“Reach out to inflict punishment upon him, and make bitter the waters of Iran's enemies.”
#257
شما را بویم اندرین پیشرو
✦
نشانیم برگاه اوشاه نو
“I shall be your leader in this undertaking, and we shall seat a new king upon his throne.”
#258
وگر هیچ پستی کنید اندرین
✦
شما را سپاریم ایران زمین
“And if you show any weakness in this cause, we shall leave the land of Iran entirely to you.”
#259
یکی گوشه‌ای بس کنیم ازجهان
✦
بیک سو خرامیم باهمرهان
“We shall content ourselves with a corner of the world, and depart to one side with our companions.”
#260
بگفتار گستهم یکسر سپاه
✦
گرفتند نفرین برارام شاه
“Upon hearing Gustahm’s words, the entire army began to pour curses upon King Hormozd.”
#261
که هرگز مبادا چنین تاجور
✦
کجا دست یازد به خون پسر
“Saying: 'May there never be such a crowned monarch who stretches out his hand to spill his son’s blood!'”
#262
به گفتار چون شوخ شد لشکرش
✦
هم آنگه زدند آتش اندر درش
“When his troops grew bold at his words, they instantly set fire to the palace gate.”
#263
شدند اندرایوان شاهنشهی
✦
به نزدیک آن تخت بافرهی
“They stormed into the imperial palace and drew near to that throne of glorious aura.”
#264
چوتاج از سرشاه برداشتند
✦
ز تختش نگونسار برگاشتند
“As they lifted the crown from the king's head, they dragged him down headlong from his throne.”
#265
نهادند پس داغ بر چشم شاه
✦
شد آنگاه آن شمع رخشان سیاه
“They then pressed a red-hot iron upon the king's eyes, and that radiant candle was turned to utter darkness.”
#266
ورا همچنان زنده بگذاشتند
✦
زگنج آنچ بد پاک برداشتند
“They left him alive in that wretched state, and carried off all that was stored in his treasury.”
#267
چنینست کردار چرخ بلند
✦
دل اندر سرای سپنجی مبند
“Such is the manner of the high revolving sky; attach not your heart to this temporary abode.”
#268
گهی گنج بینیم ازوگاه رنج
✦
براید بما بر سرای سپنج
“At times we see fortune from it and at times hardship, as our span in this transient world comes to an end.”
#269
اگر صد بود سال اگر صدهزار
✦
گذشت آن سخن کید اندر شمار
“Whether one lives a hundred years or a hundred thousand, once gone, those days enter no reckoning.”
#270
کسی کو خریدار نیکوشود
✦
نگوید سخن تا بدی نشنود
“He who becomes a seeker of virtue utters no bad word, lest he hear evil in return.”