Quatrain 54 from Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam
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آنان که محیط فضل و آداب شدنددر جمع کمال شمع اصحاب شدند
ره زین شب تاریک نبردند برونگفتند فسانهای و در خواب شدند
Description:
A Challenge in Translating Omar Khayyam's Rubai
This particular rubai of Omar Khayyam is rich in philosophical and literary allusions, making a direct, literal translation quite challenging. The imagery of a candle, the concept of "محیط فضل و آداب" (literally, "surrounded by knowledge and manners"), and the idea of being "lost in a dark night" contribute to the poem's depth and complexity.
English Translation
A more literal translation
Those who were surrounded by knowledge and manners,
Became the candles of the gathering of the learned.
They did not find their way out of this dark night,
They told a tale and fell asleep.
A more poetic and interpretive translation
Scholars, refined, with wisdom's light,
Shone bright, illuminating the night.
Yet lost in darkness, they did roam,
And found in dreams a distant home.
A contemporary and informal translation
The smart and cultured folks, so wise,
Shone bright, like stars in the skies.
But lost in life's dark maze they'd stray,
And dream of a better day.
"آنان که محیط فضل و آداب شدند": This line refers to learned and cultured individuals.
"در جمع کمال شمع اصحاب شدند": This line compares these individuals to candles, symbolizing their role as sources of light and knowledge in their communities.
"ره زین شب تاریک نبردند برون": Despite their knowledge and wisdom, these individuals were unable to find a way out of the darkness of life.
"گفتند فسانهای و در خواب شدند": This line suggests that these individuals sought solace in stories and dreams, rather than facing the realities of life.
Themes and Interpretations
The limitations of knowledge: The rubai suggests that even the most knowledgeable individuals cannot fully understand the mysteries of life.
The search for meaning: The image of the dark night symbolizes the human search for meaning and purpose.
The role of dreams and stories: The poem suggests that dreams and stories can offer comfort and escape from the harsh realities of life.
This rubai is a profound meditation on the human condition. The imagery of the candle and the dark night creates a powerful visual representation of the search for knowledge and meaning.