Hekayat 14 from Chapter 8 of Golestan of Saadi

Posted on November 22, 2024 by @hamed 10 1

English Translation for Hekayat

When you are hesitant in executing a task, choose the option that causes the least harm.

Do not speak harshly to those with a gentle disposition,
And do not seek conflict with those who strive for peace.

As long as a matter can be resolved with gold, it is not wise to risk one's life. The Arabs say: "The last resort is the sword."

When all other strategies fail,
It is permissible to take up the sword.

متن حکایت

چون در امضای کاری متردد باشی آن طرف اختیار کن که بی آزارتر بر آید.

با مردم سهل خوی دشخوار مگوی

با آن که در صلح زند جنگ مجوی

تا کار به زر برمی‌آید جان در خطر افکندن نشاید. عرب گوید: آخِرُ الحِیَلِ السَّیفُ

چو دست از همه حیلتی در گسست

حلال است بردن به شمشیر دست

hamed
@hamed Nov. 22, 2024, 6:43 p.m.

This piece highlights the wisdom of choosing the path of least harm and reserving drastic measures for when all other options have failed. Saadi's words remind us to act with prudence and compassion in our interactions.