Quatrain 5o from Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam
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7
هر ذره که در خاک زمینی بودهستپیش از من و تو تاج و نگینی بودهست
گرد از رخ نازنین به آزرم فشانکآن هم رخ خوب نازنینی بودهست
Description:
A Challenge in Translation and Interpretation
This rubai by Omar Khayyam is rich in symbolism and philosophical undertones, making it a particularly challenging one to translate directly. The imagery of dust on a beautiful face, combined with the reference to the earth and its contents, invites deep contemplation about the cyclical nature of life and the transience of beauty.
English Translation
A more literal translation
Every particle of dust in the earth has been,
Before you and me, a crown and a jewel,
So scatter dust from your lovely face in modesty,
For that too was once a lovely, delicate face.
A more poetic and interpretive translation
Each grain of earth beneath our feet,
Once shone as jewel, radiant and sweet.
So let us veil our beauty, humble and meek,
For all things fade, and time will speak.
A contemporary and informal translation
Every speck of dirt you see,
Was once something beautiful, you'll agree.
So don't be vain, let your beauty fade,
For even the fairest things turn to shade.
"هر ذره که در خاک زمینی بودهست": This line suggests that everything in the universe, even the smallest particle, has a history and a potential for transformation.
"پیش از من و تو تاج و نگینی بودهست": The image of a crown and jewel implies that even the most humble of things once held great value or significance.
"گرد از رخ نازنین به آزرم فشان": This line encourages humility and suggests that beauty is fleeting.
"کآن هم رخ خوب نازنینی بودهست": The final line reinforces the idea that all things, including beauty, are subject to the cycle of life and death.
Themes and Interpretations
The cyclical nature of existence: The rubai hints at the idea of reincarnation or the cyclical nature of existence, suggesting that everything is interconnected and in a constant state of change.
The transience of beauty: The beauty of a human face is compared to the beauty of a jewel, emphasizing the fleeting nature of all things.
Humility: The poet encourages humility and suggests that we should not be overly attached to our earthly possessions or beauty.
This rubai is a profound meditation on the nature of existence and the interconnectedness of all things. The imagery of dust and jewels serves as a powerful reminder of the impermanence of life and the importance of humility.