Quatrain 55 from Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam
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آن را که به صحرای علل تاختهاندبی او همه کارها بپرداختهاند
امروز بهانهای درانداختهاندفردا همه آن بود که درساختهاند
Description:
A Challenge in Translating Omar Khayyam's Rubai
This particular rubai of Omar Khayyam is rich in philosophical and metaphysical undertones, making a direct, literal translation quite challenging. The imagery of a desert, the concept of "علل" (causes), and the idea of tasks being accomplished "without Him" contribute to the poem's depth and complexity.
English Translation
A more literal translation
Those who have journeyed to the desert of causes,
Have accomplished all things without Him.
Today, they have found an excuse,
Tomorrow, all that they have created will be.
A more poetic and interpretive translation
Seekers of reasons, lost in desert's maze,
Have built their worlds in countless, wondrous ways.
Yet, caught in doubt, they pause and hesitate,
Tomorrow's fate, they cannot contemplate.
A contemporary and informal translation
People who spend their lives searching for why,
Get stuff done without asking 'why'.
Today they're making excuses, it's true,
Tomorrow, their dreams will come true.
"آن را که به صحرای علل تاختهاند": This line refers to those who are constantly seeking the reasons behind things, the philosophers and scientists.
"بی او همه کارها بپرداختهاند": This line suggests that despite their search for causes, all things happen regardless of their understanding.
"امروز بهانهای درانداختهاند": This line implies that these seekers often find excuses or reasons to doubt or delay their actions.
"فردا همه آن بود که درساختهاند": This line suggests that the future is already predetermined, regardless of human efforts.
Themes and Interpretations
The limitations of human understanding: The rubai suggests that human understanding is limited and that there are many things beyond our comprehension.
The role of fate: The poem hints at the idea of fate or destiny, suggesting that our actions may be predetermined.
The search for meaning: The image of the desert symbolizes the endless search for meaning and purpose.
This rubai is a profound meditation on the nature of existence and the limits of human knowledge. The imagery of the desert and the concept of "causes" create a powerful visual representation of the human condition.