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