Quatrain 41 from Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam
گویند کسان بهشت با حور خوش استمن میگویم که آب انگور خوش است
این نقد بگیر و دست از آن نسیه بدارکهآواز دهل شنیدن از دور خوش است
Description:
A Note on this Rubai
This rubai is a classic example of Omar Khayyam's hedonistic philosophy and his skepticism towards religious dogma. It presents a stark contrast between the perceived pleasures of an afterlife and the tangible joys of earthly life.
English Translation
A more literal translation
They say that paradise with houris is pleasant,
I say that grape juice is pleasant,
Take this cash in hand and let go of that credit,
For hearing the sound of a drum from afar is pleasant.
A more poetic and interpretive translation
Some say that Heaven's bliss is all they crave,
But give me wine, and I'll be more than brave.
Seize the day, let future hopes be cast,
A distant drum's sweet music is the past.
A contemporary and informal translation
People rave about heaven and its hot babes,
But I'd rather have a glass of grape.
So let's live in the moment, don't delay,
A distant drum's sound is a better way.
"گویند کسان بهشت با حور خوش است": This line refers to the common belief in an afterlife paradise filled with beautiful women.
"من میگویم که آب انگور خوش است": Khayyam counters this belief by stating his preference for the earthly pleasure of wine.
"این نقد بگیر و دست از آن نسیه بدار": This line urges the reader to seize the moment and enjoy the present rather than waiting for future rewards.
"کهآواز دهل شنیدن از دور خوش است": This line uses a metaphor of a distant drum to suggest the allure of the unknown and the fleeting nature of life.
Themes and Interpretations
Carpe diem: The poem emphasizes the importance of living in the moment and enjoying life's pleasures.
Skepticism towards religion: Khayyam expresses doubt about the existence of an afterlife and the rewards promised by religion.
Hedonism: The poem celebrates the pleasures of the senses and the importance of living life to the fullest.
This rubai is a bold statement about the value of earthly pleasures and the limitations of religious belief. Khayyam's willingness to challenge societal norms and his emphasis on the importance of living in the moment have made this rubai one of his most famous and controversial works.