Rubaei 8 By Hafez Shirazi
ماهم که رخش روشنی خور بگرفت
گرد خط او چشمهٔ کوثر بگرفت
دلها همه در چاه زنخدان انداخت
وآنگه سر چاه را به عنبر بگرفت
Description:
Literal Translation:
The moon whose radiance eclipsed the sun's light,
Around her mole, the spring of Kauthar took hold.
She cast all hearts into the well of her dimples,
And then sealed the well's mouth with amber.
Poetic and Interpretive Translation:
Her beauty dimmed the sun's celestial fire,
A mole upon her cheek, a pure desire.
In dimples deep, she's cast each heart astray,
Sealing them within with amber's sway.
Analysis of the Rubai
This rubai is a vibrant example of Hafez's poetic mastery, combining celestial imagery with earthly sensuality. Let's break down the key themes:
Celestial Beauty: The beloved is compared to the moon, eclipsing the sun, suggesting her unparalleled beauty and radiance.
The Power of a Mole: The "mole" on her cheek is not a blemish but a source of fascination and desire, likened to the spring of Kauthar, a sacred spring in Islamic paradise.
The Allure of the Beloved: The "well of her dimples" represents the irresistible allure of her smile, into which hearts are willingly cast.
The Sealing of Hearts: By "sealing the well's mouth with amber," Hafez suggests that once someone falls under the spell of the beloved's beauty, there is no escape.
Interpretation
This rubai is a celebration of the beloved's irresistible charm and beauty. Here are some potential interpretations:
A Love Poem: On a literal level, it's a love poem expressing the poet's deep admiration and longing for the beloved.
A Mystical Allegory: The beloved could represent divine beauty or a higher state of consciousness. The "well of her dimples" might symbolize the path to spiritual enlightenment.
A Commentary on Human Desire: The rubai could be seen as a commentary on the power of love and the human tendency to be captivated by beauty.
Overall, this rubai is a vivid and sensual portrayal of the beloved's allure. The poet's use of celestial imagery and earthly metaphors creates a rich and evocative picture.