Quatrain 176 from Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam

Analysis of the Rubai

This quatrain by Omar Khayyám is a philosophical exploration of justice and the human condition.

Cosmic Justice: The poet questions the apparent injustice in the world and wonders if the celestial bodies operate according to principles of fairness.
The Suffering of the Wise: The poet highlights the paradox that often, the wise and learned suffer more than the ignorant.
The Desire for Justice: The underlying desire for a just and equitable world is evident throughout the poem.

Deeper Meanings and Interpretations

The Problem of Evil: This rubai touches upon the age-old philosophical question of why bad things happen to good people.
The Search for Meaning: The poet's questioning of cosmic justice reflects a deeper search for meaning and purpose.
The Human Condition: The poem highlights the inherent suffering and injustice that are part of the human experience.

In essence, this rubai is a meditation on the nature of justice and the human condition.

Possible Interpretations and Questions:

What does the poet mean by "the work of the heavens"? Is it a reference to fate, or a more general concept of cosmic order?
How does the poet define "justice"? Is it based on human concepts of fairness, or is it something more cosmic?
What is the significance of the "learned" in this poem? Do they represent a particular class of people, or a more universal quality?

This rubai offers a rich and complex exploration of the human experience, and it can be interpreted in many different ways. By examining the specific language and imagery used by Omar Khayyám, we can gain a deeper understanding of his thoughts and feelings.