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Rostam Sets Out in the Babr-e Bayan
Book B4 · The War with Mazandaran

Rostam Sets Out in the Babr-e Bayan

From B4.4, Kay Kavus Writes to Zal and Rostam. It illustrates B4.4.52–57:

  • B4.4.52
    He donned his Babr-e Bayan for the road,While Zal invoked God’s blessing as he rode.
  • B4.4.53
    Like an elephant he mounted Rakhsh with might;The stallion stood as firm in heart and sight.
  • B4.4.54
    Rudabeh came with tears that would not cease,While Zal wept bitterly and found no peace.
  • B4.4.55
    She said: “You leave and fill my heart with fear;What hope in Yazdan bears you onward, dear?”
  • B4.4.56
    He answered: “Mother, I chose not this way;Time gave this lot; to God give soul and clay.”
  • B4.4.57
    The people gathered round to bid farewell;Who knew if they would see him more, or dwell?

In the picture

RostamRudabehZalRakhsh
Read it in the poemIn the Illustrated PoemAll panels of Book B4
Previous · B4.3The White Div Taunts the Blinded ShahNext · B5.1Rakhsh Kills the Lion in the Reeds

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