How much time we should spend on the pursuit of material possessions? In quatrain 157 from Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam he expresses his opinion about this. I will read the original poem in Persian and than its translation. Finally we have a brief analysis.
آن مایه ز دنیا که خوری یا پوشی
معذوری اگر در طلبش میکوشی
باقی همه رایگان نیرزد هشدار
تا عمر گرانبها به آن نفروشی
What of this world that you consume or wear,If in its pursuit, you bear some despair, is justified.
All else is worthless, heed this warning true,Don't waste your precious life in its pursuit.
This quatrain is of the themes of materialism, contentment, and the value of time. It highlights the futility of chasing worldly possessions and emphasizes the importance of cherishing one's life and finding fulfillment beyond material pursuits.
The opening line acknowledges the basic needs for sustenance and clothing, but it cautions against excessive pursuit of material desires. The second line emphasizes that true satisfaction lies not in material possessions but in living a meaningful and fulfilling life.
The third line serves as a stark warning against wasting one's precious life in the pursuit of fleeting worldly pleasures. It underscores the finite nature of life and the importance of making the most of it.
The concluding line reinforces the message of the quatrain, urging one to not to waste their valuable life in the pursuit of material things. It encourages individuals to seek deeper meaning and fulfillment beyond the confines of materialism.
This quatrain serves as a poignant reminder to prioritize experiences, relationships, and personal growth over the accumulation of material wealth. It encourages individuals to live a conscious and meaningful life, one that aligns with their values and aspirations.
Only that portion of worldly wealth, that amount which is necessary for meeting basic human needs and comfort, has a justifiable moral and logical basis for you to strive for. But pursuing more than that will lead you down a path where your mind will be constantly entangled, and you will never again see the color of happiness. And since, in Khayyam's view, life should be lived with joy, he warns humanity against such pursuits.
Khayyam's message serves as a timeless reminder to prioritize experiences, relationships, and personal growth over the accumulation of material possessions. He encourages individuals to seek a life that aligns with their values and aspirations, one that brings genuine happiness and fulfillment.
