Quatrain 31 from Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam
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دارنده چو ترکیب طبایع آراستاز بهر چه اوفکندش اندر کم و کاست
گر نیک آمد شکستن از بهر چه بودور نیک نیامد این صور عیب که راست
Description:
A Note on this Rubai
This rubai is a deep philosophical exploration into the nature of existence, creation, and the apparent imperfections of the universe. Khayyam here questions the purpose and reasoning behind the creation of the universe, particularly the existence of suffering and imperfection.
English Translation
A more literal translation
The Possessor, when He adorned the composition of nature,
For what reason did He cast it into increase and decrease?
If breaking is good, for what reason was it?
And if it is not good, then these forms are truly flawed.
A more poetic and interpretive translation
The Maker of this world, so intricate and grand,
Why did He fill it with this mortal hand?
If breaking hearts is good, why does it occur?
If not, then His creation is askew.
A contemporary and informal translation
Whoever made this world, so complex and strange,
Why did He create suffering and pain?
If pain is good, why does it exist?
If not, then the whole thing's a big old twist.
"دارنده چو ترکیب طبایع آراست": This line refers to the creator, or the "possessor" of all things, who has adorned the universe with its various elements.
"از بهر چه اوفکندش اندر کم و کاست": This line questions why the creator would create a world filled with both abundance and scarcity, joy and sorrow.
"گر نیک آمد شکستن از بهر چه بود": This line asks why there is suffering and destruction if it is a good thing.
"ور نیک نیامد این صور عیب که راست": This line suggests that if suffering is not a good thing, then the creation itself is flawed.
Themes and Interpretations
The Problem of Evil: Khayyam here grapples with the classic philosophical question of why evil exists in a world created by a benevolent being.
The Imperfection of Creation: The rubai hints at the idea that the universe, as we experience it, is not perfect or without flaws.
The Search for Purpose: Khayyam seems to be questioning the ultimate purpose of existence and the reasons behind the suffering we experience.
This rubai is a profound exploration of existential questions that have puzzled philosophers for centuries. By questioning the nature of creation and the existence of suffering, Khayyam invites us to contemplate the deeper meaning of life.