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Kayd Reads the Shah's Stars
Book D7 · The Early Sasanians

Kayd Reads the Shah's Stars

From D7.4, Ardeshir Writes to Kayd of Hind. It illustrates D7.4.16–22:

  • D7.4.16
    The envoy came to Kayd with gifts in hand,And offerings sent from Ardeshir’s own land.
  • D7.4.17
    He told the Shah’s whole message, word by word,And bared each secret trouble he had heard.
  • D7.4.18
    Kayd questioned him; concern upon him weighed,Then turned to all his learning for its aid.
  • D7.4.19
    He brought his astrolabe to read the skies,With Indian tables spread before his eyes.
  • D7.4.20
    He weighed what heaven’s turning might portend:Ease, profit, pain, and harm that it might send.
  • D7.4.21
    “I reckoned Iran’s fortune, gauged its hope,And with it read the Shah’s own horoscope.
  • D7.4.22
    If Ardeshir’s line joins with Mehrak’s own,The son of Nushzad, peace shall bless his throne.
Read it in the poemIn the Illustrated PoemAll panels of Book D7
Previous · D7.3Gold and Jewels Poured on the HeirNext · D7.5Shapur Hauls the Maiden's Bucket

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