New Naqqaliشاهنامه
Soroush Speaks to Khosrow in Dream

Soroush Speaks to Khosrow in Dream

From C4.50, Soroush Appears to Khosrow in Dream. It illustrates C4.50.8–19 (to C4.50.21):

  • C4.50.8
    One night the Shah, from suffering, could not sleep,Until the moon climbed up the azure steep.
  • C4.50.9
    Then sleep came on, though wisdom still was bright,His mind awake within the dream of night.
  • C4.50.10
    He dreamed that blessed Soroush, drawing near,Spoke secretly a message in his ear.
  • C4.50.11
    “O Shah, whom stars and fortune claim their own,You who have handled armlet, crown, and throne,
  • C4.50.12
    Now swiftly leave the world and do not stay;All you have sought is yours; be on your way.
  • C4.50.13
    Abide no longer in this world of care;A place beside the pure Judge you will share.
  • C4.50.14
    Let someone else possess this passing throne;Give worthy men the treasure that you own.
  • C4.50.15
    Enrich the poor; let gifts to them increase,And bring your people happiness and peace.
  • C4.50.16
    Who flees this dragon’s breath escapes the gripOf dire affliction’s claws that tear and rip.
  • C4.50.17
    Each man who bore your hardships had in viewThe wealth he hoped to gain by serving you.
  • C4.50.18
    You will not tarry long upon this earth;Bestow your wealth on men of proven worth.
  • C4.50.19
    Choose for the throne a king whose rule is sound;Let him not hurt an ant upon the ground.

In the picture

Woodcut panels, identity sheets and banners © 2026 New Naqqali LLC, licensed CC BY-NC 4.0: share and adapt them for non-commercial use, with credit to New Naqqali. Rights & permissions.