
Siavash Rides Unscathed from the Fire
From B9.13, Siavash’s Trial by Fire. It illustrates B9.13.41–50:
- B9.13.41Then from the flames the noble youth rode free,Rose-faced and smiling for the world to see.
- B9.13.42A roar went up from all the gathered throng:“The young Shah lives! He leaves the fire whole and strong!”
- B9.13.43His horse and robe and rider shone as white,Like jasmine blossoms opening to sight.
- B9.13.44Had it been water, he might well be wet;The fire had left no mark upon him yet.
- B9.13.45When pure Yazdan extends His mercy true,The breath of fire and wind are one to you.
- B9.13.46He passed from fiery mountain to the field,And cries from town and plain around him pealed.
- B9.13.47The riders rushed to meet him in delight,And cast their silver coins to left and right.
- B9.13.48All people, high and low, rejoiced as one,And praised the miracle that had been done.
- B9.13.49They said: “The just Judge guards the guiltless true,And brings the schemer’s wickedness to view.”
- B9.13.50Sudabeh, mad with anger at the sight,Tore hair and scratched her face in bitter spite.
In the picture
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