Quatrain 63 from Rubaiyat of Saadi Shirazi

Analysis:

This quatrain from Saadi's Golestan delves deep into the complexities of love and devotion. Let's break down each line:

Line 1: مجنون اگر احتمال لیلی نکند

"If Majnun hadn't hoped for Layla,"
Here, Saadi references the famous Persian love story of Majnun and Layla. He suggests that if Majnun had not held out hope for reciprocation from Layla, perhaps he would not have been so consumed by love.

Line 2: شاید که به صدق عشق دعوی نکند

"Perhaps he wouldn't have claimed sincere love."
This line implies that the intensity of Majnun's love was fueled by his hope for Layla's love in return. It questions the sincerity of love when it is purely self-serving.

Line 3: در مذهب عشق هر که جانی دارد

"In the religion of love, whoever is truly devoted"
Saadi introduces the concept of love as a religion. He suggests that those who are truly devoted to love have a different perspective.

Line 4: روی دل ازو به هر که دنیی نکند

"Doesn't turn their heart away from anyone for worldly reasons"
This line contrasts the conditional love implied in the first two lines. It suggests that true love is unconditional and not influenced by worldly gains or losses.

Deeper Meaning

This quatrain explores the nuances of love, hope, and sincerity. It suggests that:

Hope is a powerful motivator: The hope for reciprocation can fuel the intensity of love.
True love is unconditional: Those who are truly devoted to love do not let worldly considerations influence their feelings.
Love is a religion: It suggests that love is a spiritual pursuit, requiring devotion and sacrifice.

Saadi is questioning the nature of love. He suggests that while hope can be a powerful motivator, true love is selfless and unconditional. The story of Majnun and Layla serves as a backdrop to explore these complex themes.