
Jamasp Reads the Stars by the Jihun
From C6.10, Goshtasb Hears Jamasp’s Prophecy. It illustrates C6.10.9–19:
- C6.10.9Now read the stars and all their aspects show, And tell me how this war will come and go.
- C6.10.10How will the battle pass from first to last? Which side shall meet disaster, falling fast?”
- C6.10.11The old Jamasp grew sorrowful and pale; Then spoke before the Shah his bitter tale:
- C6.10.12“I wish the Just had never made me wise, Nor taught me how to read the turning skies.
- C6.10.13Then would the Shah not ask of me this thing, Nor would I bear such truth before the king.
- C6.10.14Yet I must speak, for if I answer not, The king of kings may make my death my lot.
- C6.10.15But pledge that neither you nor those you sendWill harm me for the fate I must portend.”
- C6.10.16The Shah replied, “By God, the Faith confessed, Its bringer, with a spotless wisdom blessed,
- C6.10.17And by the life of brave Zarir in fight, And great Esfandiyar, my shining light,
- C6.10.18I swear I will not bring you any harm, Nor set another hand against your arm.
- C6.10.19You know the remedy; I seek the way. Tell all you know of this affair, I pray.”
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.
New Naqqali
