O King, may the sphere of the heavens be your polo ball, Ghazal 108 by Hafez
O King, may the sphere of the heavens be your polo ball, Ghazal 108 by Hafez
By
@admin | poet: Hafez Shirazi
خسروا گویِ فلک در خَمِ چوگان تو باد
ساحتِ کون و مکان عرصهٔ میدانِ تو باد
***
زلفِ خاتونِ ظفر شیفتهٔ پرچم توست
دیدهٔ فتحِ ابد عاشقِ جولانِ تو باد
***
ای که انشاءِ عطارد صفتِ شوکتِ توست
عقل کل چاکرِ طُغراکشِ دیوانِ تو باد
***
طِیرهٔ جلوهٔ طوبی قدِ چون سروِ تو شد
غیرتِ خُلدِ بَرین ساحتِ بُستانِ تو باد
***
نه به تنها حَیَوانات و نَباتات و جَماد
هر چه در عالمِ امر است به فرمانِ تو باد
***
Description:
English Translation:
O King, may the sphere of the heavens be your polo ball,
May the expanse of existence and place be your arena.
The locks of the victorious lady are enamored with your banner,
May the eye of eternal victory be in love with your roaming.
O you, whose majestic attribute is like the inscription of Mercury,
May all wisdom be a servant to the seal of your royal decrees.
The constellation of the celestial tree has become envious of your cypress-like stature,
May the jealousy of the highest heaven be the garden of your existence.
Not only animals, plants, and inanimate objects,
May everything in the world of the imperative be at your command.
Explanation of the Ghazal
In this ghazal, Hafez uses royal imagery and cosmic metaphors to express his deep admiration and devotion for his beloved. The poet elevates his beloved to a divine status, comparing them to a king, a celestial body, and a force of nature.
Key Themes:
Divine Love: The beloved is portrayed as a divine being, possessing immense power and beauty.
Royal Imagery: The poet uses royal imagery to emphasize the beloved's majesty and authority.
Cosmic Metaphors: The beloved is compared to celestial bodies and natural forces, suggesting their cosmic significance.
Key Persian terms and their nuances:
خسرو: King
چوگان: Polo
ظفر: Victory
عطارد: Mercury (a planet and also a symbol of eloquence and speed)
طُغرا: A calligraphic monogram, often used as a royal seal
طوبی: A celestial tree, often associated with paradise
This ghazal is a beautiful example of Hafez's poetic mastery, combining deep emotional expression with rich imagery. The poet's use of metaphors and similes creates a vivid and evocative picture of his love and devotion.