Quatrain 44 from Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam
مهتاب به نور دامن شب بشکافتمی نوش دمی بهتر از این نتوان یافت
خوش باش و میندیش که مهتاب بسیاندر سر خاک یک به یک خواهد تافت
Description:
A Note on this Rubai
This rubai is a beautiful meditation on the fleeting nature of life and the importance of enjoying the present moment. Khayyam uses the image of the moon illuminating the night sky to symbolize the transient beauty of life.
English Translation
A more literal translation
The moonlight has split the skirt of the night with its light,
A moment better than this cannot be found,
Be happy and do not think that the moonlight will shine,
Many times on the head of the earth, one by one.
A more poetic and interpretive translation
The moon has pierced the night's dark veil,
No moment sweeter, no more lovely tale.
So let us joy, nor fear the coming night,
For moons will rise and set on every height.
A contemporary and informal translation
The moon's shining bright, painting the night,
There's nothing better, what a sight!
So let's be happy, live life to the full,
The moon will rise, and time will pull.
"مهتاب به نور دامن شب بشکافت": This line creates a vivid image of the moon illuminating the darkness.
"می نوش دمی بهتر از این نتوان یافت": This line emphasizes the beauty and uniqueness of the present moment.
"خوش باش و میندیش که مهتاب بسی": This line encourages the reader to enjoy the moment without worrying about the future.
"اندر سر خاک یک به یک خواهد تافت": This line uses the image of the moon to symbolize the cyclical nature of life and death.
Themes and Interpretations
Carpe diem: The poem emphasizes the importance of living in the moment and enjoying life's pleasures.
The impermanence of life: The image of the moon rising and setting symbolizes the fleeting nature of existence.
The beauty of nature: The poem celebrates the beauty of the natural world and its ability to inspire wonder and awe.
This rubai is a powerful reminder that life is short and that it is important to savor each moment. By using the simple image of the moon, Khayyam conveys a profound message about the human condition.