Saeb Tabrizi’s poetry often transcends the boundaries of time and space, offering wisdom that resonates across cultures and centuries. In this poem, Saeb dives into the sacrifices and transformations required to attain spiritual growth and enlightenment.
This is no simple journey. Saeb paints a vivid picture of the struggles endured by “beloved ones”—those seekers of truth who transcend the ordinary in pursuit of the extraordinary. Their path is marked by detachment, perseverance, and a relentless quest for something greater than themselves.
Poem in Persian:
تا از خودی خود نبریدند عزیزان
چون نی به مقامی نرسیدند عزیزان
چون عمر سبکسیر ازین عالم پرشور
رفتند و به دنبال ندیدند عزیزان
دادند به معشوق حقیقی دل و جان را
یوسف به زر قلب خریدند عزیزان
دیدند که در روی زمین نیست پناهی
در کنج دل خویش خزیدند عزیزان
تا قطره خود گوهر شهوار نمودند
از بحر چه تلخی نکشیدند عزیزان
تا آب نمودند دل خویش چو شبنم
در چشمه خورشید رسیدند عزیزان
خارست نصیب تو ز گلزار، وگرنه
از خار چه گلها که نچیدند عزیزان
فقری که تو امروز به هیچش نستانی
با سلطنت بلخ خریدند عزیزان
در قید فرنگ آن که نیفتاده چه داند
کز جسم گرانجان چه کشیدند عزیزان
کردند به اکسیر رضا شهد مصفا
تلخی اگر از خلق شنیدند عزیزان
نظارگیان تو ز کونین بریدند
از یوسف اگر دست بریدند عزیزان
صائب نرسیدند به سر منزل مقصود
تا پای به دامن نکشیدند عزیزان
Translation of Saeb Tabrizi's Poem
Until they severed ties with their own selfhood, beloved ones
Did not reach any station of worth, beloved ones.
Like fleeting lives, they left this tumultuous world behind,
And never once looked back to find, beloved ones.
They gave their hearts and souls to the True Beloved,
And bought Joseph for counterfeit gold, beloved ones.
Finding no refuge upon the earth's surface,
They hid within their hearts' own crevice, beloved ones.
To turn their drop into a radiant pearl,
Bitter struggles they endured, beloved ones.
Until their hearts, like dew, dissolved completely,
And met the sun’s fountain sweetly, beloved ones.
For you, a thorn may be all the garden yields,
Yet from thorns, countless roses they peeled, beloved ones.
The poverty you spurn today as worthless,
They bought with Balkh’s kingdoms, no less, beloved ones.
Who has not been bound in the chains of foreign lands,
Knows not the weight heavy bodies demand, beloved ones.
They turned bitterness from people into pure honey,
Through the alchemy of contentment, beloved ones.
The spectators of yours turned from both worlds entirely,
And severed their hands for their Joseph, beloved ones.
Saeb, they did not reach the destination sought,
Until in the skirts of surrender they were caught, beloved ones.
Themes of Detachment and Transformation
Saeb opens the poem with a powerful notion: one must let go of the self to truly ascend. This is echoed in countless spiritual traditions, where the shedding of ego and self-interest is seen as essential for enlightenment. For the "beloved ones," this detachment is the first step in a transformative journey.
The imagery of enduring hardship to become a pearl or dissolving like dew to merge with the sun speaks to the deep struggles and eventual rewards of this path. It’s a metaphor for personal transformation—where trials are not obstacles but catalysts for growth.
The True Beloved
Saeb’s reference to the “True Beloved” reminds us of the ultimate goal of spiritual seekers: a connection with the divine or the eternal. By giving their hearts to this higher love, the beloved ones find fulfillment that transcends the fleeting pleasures of worldly life.
In modern terms, this could symbolize the pursuit of purpose, meaning, and authenticity in a world that often values material success over inner peace.
Lessons for Modern Life
This poem offers timeless insights for those navigating the complexities of modern life:
- Detach from Ego: Whether in personal relationships or professional pursuits, letting go of ego can lead to greater harmony and success.
- Embrace Challenges: Saeb reminds us that growth often requires enduring hardship. The thorns of life may yield roses if we approach them with the right mindset.
- Seek Deeper Meaning: In an age dominated by distractions, the beloved ones' focus on the “True Beloved” invites us to prioritize what truly matters.
Personal Reflections
Saeb’s poetry resonates deeply with me, especially in its emphasis on the transformative power of struggle. Growing up in a small village in Iran, I witnessed firsthand how resilience and determination could turn life's thorns into blossoms.
This poem reminds me of the sacrifices made by those who seek higher truths—whether they’re spiritual aspirants, artists, or individuals striving to make a positive impact. It’s a reminder that the journey may be challenging, but the destination is worth every step.
A Modern Takeaway
In a world where instant gratification often takes precedence, Saeb’s poetry serves as a call to embrace patience and perseverance. The beloved ones didn’t achieve their status overnight—it was their unwavering dedication and ability to endure hardship that set them apart.
As we navigate our own lives, may we remember Saeb’s words and strive to turn our struggles into pearls, our challenges into opportunities for growth.
Closing Thoughts
Saadi’s wisdom remains as relevant today as it was centuries ago. His ability to weave universal truths into beautiful verse makes his poetry a source of inspiration for generations.
What aspects of Saeb’s poem resonate most with you? How can you apply its lessons to your own journey? Let’s start a conversation about the enduring power of Persian poetry and its relevance in modern times.
