Quatrain 20 from Rubaiyat of Rumi
ای داده بنان گوهر ایمانی راداده بجوی قلب یکی کانی را
نمرود چو دل را به خلیلی نسپردبسپرد به پشه، لاجرم جانی را
Description:
English Translation of the Quatrain
O Giver of faith's pearl, a precious core,
You've given a mine to a heart that's poor.
Nimrod, when he didn't give his heart to Khalil,
Gave it to a gnat, and thus lost his life.
Analysis of the Quatrain
The Giver and the Gift: The poet addresses a divine or spiritual entity as the giver of faith and spiritual treasures.
The Heart as a Mine: The heart is compared to a mine, suggesting that it contains immense potential and value.
Nimrod and Khalil: These are historical figures. Nimrod was a tyrannical king in the Quran, while Khalil is often used as a name for Abraham, known for his unwavering faith.
The Gnat and the Loss of Life: The image of Nimrod giving his heart to a gnat suggests a foolish or misguided choice that led to his downfall.
Deeper Meanings
This quatrain can be interpreted in several ways:
The Value of Faith: The poet emphasizes the importance of faith and its transformative power.
The Consequences of Misguided Actions: The story of Nimrod serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of pride and arrogance.
The Divine Gift: The "giver" is seen as bestowing a precious gift upon humanity, but it is up to individuals to recognize and appreciate this gift.