Quatrain 168 from Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam
تا چند حدیث پنج و چار ای ساقیمشکل چه یکی چه صد هزار ای ساقی
خاکیم همه چنگ بساز ای ساقیبادیم همه باده بیار ای ساقی
Description:
A Beautiful Rubai by Omar Khayyam
English Translation:
How long shall we debate the numbers, O cupbearer?
What does it matter if it's one or a hundred thousand, O cupbearer?
We are all but dust, so strike up the music, O cupbearer.
We are all but wind, so pour the wine, O cupbearer.
Analysis of the Rubai
This quatrain by Omar Khayyam is a celebration of life, wine, and the transience of human existence.
A Call for Enjoyment: The poet urges the cupbearer to serve wine, suggesting a desire to escape from the complexities of life and enjoy the present moment.
The Futility of Counting: The reference to numbers and calculations implies the futility of trying to understand the mysteries of the universe.
The Transitory Nature of Life: The comparison of humans to dust and wind emphasizes the impermanence of life and the inevitability of death.
Deeper Meanings and Interpretations
Carpe Diem: The poem encourages the reader to seize the day and enjoy life's pleasures.
The Futility of Material Possessions: The comparison of humans to dust suggests that material possessions and achievements are ultimately meaningless.
The Unity of All Things: The comparison of humans to wind suggests that all beings are interconnected and part of a larger cosmic order.
In essence, this rubai is a meditation on the human condition and the importance of finding joy amidst life's uncertainties.