Rubaei 15 By Hafez Shirazi
با می به کنار جوی میباید بود
وز غصّه کنارهجوی میباید بود
این مدّت عمر ما چو گل ده روز است
خندان لب و تازهروی میباید بود
Description:
Literal Translation:
One should be by the stream with wine,
And far away from sorrow one should strive.
This period of our life, like a flower for ten days,
Should be with a smiling face and fresh complexion.
Poetic and Interpretive Translation:
Beside a stream, with wine, one should abide,
And sorrow's company should be denied.
Our lives, like blossoms, fleeting and sweet,
Should be filled with joy, from head to feet.
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Analysis of the Rubai
This rubai by Hafez is a celebration of life, pleasure, and the ephemeral nature of existence.
The Invitation to Joy: The first two lines present a clear invitation to embrace the pleasures of life. The image of being "by the stream with wine" is a classic Persian motif symbolizing tranquility, pleasure, and the enjoyment of life.
The Ephemeral Nature of Life: The comparison of human life to a flower that lasts only ten days emphasizes the brevity of existence and the importance of living in the moment.
The Importance of Joy: The final line emphasizes the need to maintain a joyful and optimistic outlook on life.
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Interpretation
This rubai can be interpreted in several ways:
A Carpe Diem Philosophy: Hafez encourages readers to seize the day and enjoy life's pleasures while they can, as life is short and uncertain.
A Critique of Materialism: The emphasis on simple pleasures, such as nature and wine, suggests that true happiness is not found in material possessions but in the enjoyment of the moment.
A Spiritual Interpretation: The image of the stream could symbolize spiritual enlightenment, and the wine could represent divine love. In this interpretation, the rubai suggests that true happiness is found in a connection with something greater than oneself.
Overall, this rubai is a beautiful and timeless expression of the human desire for joy and fulfillment. Hafez reminds us to savor the sweetness of life and to let go of worries and sorrows.