{ "title": "The Shahs and Their Pahlevans", "source": "/poem/", "retrieved": "2026-10-22", "method": "Curated, episode-specific ties. Arrows run from champion to Shah in every type. Groups organize navigation; they are not a complete genealogy or a claim of permanent allegiance.", "houses": [ { "id": "early", "name": "Early Shahs", "color": "#a88444" }, { "id": "kayanian", "name": "Shahs of the heroic age", "color": "#92773d" }, { "id": "later", "name": "Later Shahs", "color": "#777c65" }, { "id": "sahm", "name": "Sahm’s line", "color": "#a85d49" }, { "id": "keshvad", "name": "Keshvad’s line", "color": "#ac7859" }, { "id": "iran", "name": "Other Iranian champions", "color": "#65769a" }, { "id": "turan", "name": "Turan’s champions", "color": "#427b80" }, { "id": "commanders", "name": "Later commanders", "color": "#8a7398" } ], "people": [ { "id": "fereydoon", "name": "Fereydoon", "house": "early", "note": "Sahm recalls receiving his champion’s office from Fereydoon; this is retrospective testimony." }, { "id": "manuchehr", "name": "Manuchehr", "house": "early", "note": "Shah addressed by Sahm at the opening of his reign." }, { "id": "kay_qobad", "name": "Kay Qobad", "house": "kayanian", "note": "Rostam escorts him from Alborz before his accession; the first campaign follows his coronation." }, { "id": "kay_kavus", "name": "Kay Kavus", "house": "kayanian", "note": "Rostam’s patron, rescued sovereign and antagonist in several distinct episodes." }, { "id": "kay_khosrow", "name": "Kay Khosrow", "house": "kayanian", "note": "Giv brings the future Shah from Turan; later military commissions and counsel belong to his reign." }, { "id": "afrasiab", "name": "Afrasiab", "house": "kayanian", "note": "Shah of Turan, served and advised by Piran and rescued by Houman." }, { "id": "lohrasp", "name": "Lohrasp", "house": "kayanian", "note": "A royal warrior under Kay Khosrow before becoming Shah himself. His one node preserves both roles." }, { "id": "goshtasb", "name": "Goshtasb", "house": "kayanian", "note": "Zarir’s brother and Esfandiyar’s father; service and remonstrance are separate records." }, { "id": "hormizd", "name": "Hormizd", "house": "later", "note": "Son of Anooshirvan; Bahram Chubin’s commander-in-chief relationship deteriorates into open challenge." }, { "id": "yazdegard_last", "name": "Yazdegard", "house": "later", "note": "The final Shah in this selection; his commander Rostam is Ormozd’s son, not the hero of Sistan." }, { "id": "sahm", "name": "Sahm", "house": "sahm", "note": "Son of Nariman. His promise to fight for Manuchehr distinguishes the champion’s work from the Shah’s office." }, { "id": "zal", "name": "Zal", "house": "sahm", "note": "Sahm’s son and Rostam’s father. He counsels Shahs and pledges the loyalty of his house." }, { "id": "rostam", "name": "Rostam · son of Zal", "house": "sahm", "note": "The champion of Sistan. Several colors joining the same Shah record different episodes, not a single unchanging allegiance." }, { "id": "keshvad", "name": "Keshvad", "house": "keshvad", "note": "Warrior in the center of Kay Qobad’s first battle; father of Gudarz." }, { "id": "gudarz", "name": "Gudarz", "house": "keshvad", "note": "Son of Keshvad. He restrains Kay Kavus’s anger and leads an army for Kay Khosrow." }, { "id": "giv", "name": "Giv", "house": "keshvad", "note": "Son of Gudarz. His protection of the future Kay Khosrow precedes the latter’s accession." }, { "id": "gharan", "name": "Gharan", "house": "iran", "note": "Commands the center in Kay Qobad’s first campaign." }, { "id": "ashkash", "name": "Ashkash", "house": "iran", "note": "Receives an army and a destination from Kay Khosrow." }, { "id": "zarir", "name": "Zarir", "house": "iran", "note": "Goshtasb’s brother and chief commander; a royal prince can also act as Pahlevan." }, { "id": "esfandiyar", "name": "Esfandiyar", "house": "iran", "note": "Goshtasb’s son and military champion. His protest against the Rostam mission is not classified as a completed rebellion." }, { "id": "piran", "name": "Piran", "house": "turan", "note": "Turanian commander and counselor, son of Viseh. Counseling Afrasiab is distinct from defending the future Kay Khosrow." }, { "id": "houman", "name": "Houman", "house": "turan", "note": "Turanian champion who helps Afrasiab escape Rostam in battle." }, { "id": "bahram_chubin", "name": "Bahram Chubin", "house": "commanders", "note": "A later commander, separate from Bahram son of Gudarz. He accepts Hormizd’s banner and later sends a challenge." }, { "id": "rostam_general", "name": "Rostam · son of Ormozd", "house": "commanders", "note": "Yazdegard’s commander. Distinct from Rostam son of Zal, who lived in the heroic age." } ], "relationships": [ { "id": "pc01", "source": "sahm", "target": "fereydoon", "type": "service", "scene": "An office remembered", "note": "Sahm says Fereydoon raised him to the Pahlevan’s place. This records his retrospective statement, not a newly narrated appointment.", "ref": "A7.1.38", "evidence": [ { "id": "A7.1.38", "lines": [ "My forebears all were champions of renown,", "The refuge of great nobles and the crown." ] }, { "id": "A7.1.39", "lines": [ "From Garshasp down to Nariman of fame,", "Sepahbods, khanjar-wielders, bore that name." ] }, { "id": "A7.1.40", "lines": [ "I shall go round the world from end to end,", "And bind each rising foe who would contend." ] }, { "id": "A7.1.41", "lines": [ "Fereydoon raised me to the Pahlevan’s place;", "Your wisdom now confirms that honored grace.”" ] } ] }, { "id": "pc02", "source": "sahm", "target": "manuchehr", "type": "service", "scene": "The champion takes the field", "note": "Addressing Manuchehr, Sahm undertakes the fighting while the Shah occupies the throne. The pledge is explicit.", "ref": "A7.1.29", "evidence": [ { "id": "A7.1.29", "lines": [ "Then world-champion Sahm rose from his place:", "“O just king, judgment shines upon your face." ] }, { "id": "A7.1.30", "lines": [ "I have seen kings through many years gone by;", "In you shines justice clear to every eye." ] }, { "id": "A7.1.36", "lines": [ "You washed the earth clean with the Indian blade;", "Now sit at ease and let the feast be made." ] }, { "id": "A7.1.37", "lines": [ "From now the turn of battle falls to me;", "Your place is throne and feast, from warfare free." ] }, { "id": "A7.1.38", "lines": [ "My forebears all were champions of renown,", "The refuge of great nobles and the crown." ] }, { "id": "A7.1.39", "lines": [ "From Garshasp down to Nariman of fame,", "Sepahbods, khanjar-wielders, bore that name." ] }, { "id": "A7.1.40", "lines": [ "I shall go round the world from end to end,", "And bind each rising foe who would contend." ] }, { "id": "A7.1.41", "lines": [ "Fereydoon raised me to the Pahlevan’s place;", "Your wisdom now confirms that honored grace.”" ] }, { "id": "A7.1.42", "lines": [ "The Shah then blessed him, praising all he said,", "And royal gems before the chief were spread." ] } ] }, { "id": "pc03", "source": "rostam", "target": "kay_qobad", "type": "protection", "scene": "Bringing the future Shah to Iran", "note": "Before Qobad’s accession, Rostam tells him to stand back, breaks the opposing force, and escorts him to Zal. This is protection during the accession journey.", "ref": "B2.4.81", "evidence": [ { "id": "B2.4.81", "lines": [ "Rise now; together we must ride away,", "To join Iran’s great chiefs without delay.”" ] }, { "id": "B2.4.82", "lines": [ "Then Qobad sprang like fire and took his seat", "Upon his bay warhorse, both proud and fleet." ] }, { "id": "B2.4.83", "lines": [ "Then Rostam girded up and took his place,", "And rode with Qobad at a driving pace." ] }, { "id": "B2.4.84", "lines": [ "They rode and never paused to sleep or rest,", "Till Turan’s outposts barred the mountain crest." ] }, { "id": "B2.4.85", "lines": [ "When Kulun learned the royal pair drew near,", "He rushed like fire to battle without fear." ] }, { "id": "B2.4.86", "lines": [ "The Shah would set his ranks in war’s array,", "But Rostam said, “Stand back, my king, and stay:" ] }, { "id": "B2.4.87", "lines": [ "This battle is no work for you, my king;", "Stand back and watch what Rakhsh and I shall bring." ] }, { "id": "B2.4.88", "lines": [ "With Rakhsh, my gorz, his bargostvan, my hand,", "I need no other force to break their band." ] }, { "id": "B2.4.103", "lines": [ "The Turanian ranks broke up and fled in fear,", "Their fortune darkened as the Shah drew near." ] }, { "id": "B2.4.104", "lines": [ "Beyond the rout he struck the pickets dead,", "Then toward the mountain road he swiftly sped." ] }, { "id": "B2.4.105", "lines": [ "He reached a meadow where clear waters flowed,", "And there dismounted from the mountain road." ] }, { "id": "B2.4.106", "lines": [ "Until the daylight faded from the plain,", "He made all ready for the royal train." ] }, { "id": "B2.4.107", "lines": [ "He brought Pahlavi robes and crown to light,", "And chose the royal steed for that same night." ] }, { "id": "B2.4.108", "lines": [ "When darkness fell, the watchful chief arrayed", "The Shah in royal dress, his crown displayed." ] }, { "id": "B2.4.109", "lines": [ "In silence Rostam brought the Shah away,", "And reached old Zal unseen before the day." ] }, { "id": "B2.4.110", "lines": [ "For seven days they sat in close debate,", "While Mobadan weighed needs of crown and state." ] }, { "id": "B2.4.111", "lines": [ "They found no king like Qobad in their quest,", "Revealed or hidden, he surpassed the rest." ] } ] }, { "id": "pc04", "source": "rostam", "target": "kay_qobad", "type": "service", "scene": "The first Kayanian vanguard", "note": "After Qobad’s coronation, Rostam leads the vanguard in the army arrayed for battle.", "ref": "B3.1.1", "evidence": [ { "id": "B3.1.1", "lines": [ "When Kay Qobad ascended to the throne,", "And claimed the ancient crown and realm his own," ] }, { "id": "B3.1.2", "lines": [ "The chiefs drew near: brave Zal and Gharan bold,", "With Keshvad, Kharrad, Barzin famed of old." ] }, { "id": "B3.1.7", "lines": [ "Then Rostam armed, his heart aflame for fight,", "And rose like a raging elephant in might." ] }, { "id": "B3.1.8", "lines": [ "Iranian ranks were ordered for the fray,", "And girded themselves for bloodshed that day." ] }, { "id": "B3.1.9", "lines": [ "On one wing stood Mehrab of Kabul’s band,", "Upon the other Gostaham took his stand." ] }, { "id": "B3.1.10", "lines": [ "Gharan held fast the center of the field,", "With Keshvad near, whose foes were made to yield." ] }, { "id": "B3.1.11", "lines": [ "Before them Rostam led the van ahead,", "Behind him marched the chiefs where banners spread." ] }, { "id": "B3.1.12", "lines": [ "Behind them Zal and royal Qobad came,", "One hand bore wind, the other carried flame." ] }, { "id": "B3.1.13", "lines": [ "The Kaveh standard streamed before the fight,", "And dyed the world red, yellow, violet-bright." ] } ] }, { "id": "pc05", "source": "zal", "target": "kay_qobad", "type": "counsel", "scene": "A warning at the new throne", "note": "Zal is one of the named chiefs who greet Qobad and urge him to prepare against Turan. This is collective advice, not a claim that Zal alone enthroned him.", "ref": "B3.1.1", "evidence": [ { "id": "B3.1.1", "lines": [ "When Kay Qobad ascended to the throne,", "And claimed the ancient crown and realm his own," ] }, { "id": "B3.1.2", "lines": [ "The chiefs drew near: brave Zal and Gharan bold,", "With Keshvad, Kharrad, Barzin famed of old." ] }, { "id": "B3.1.3", "lines": [ "They scattered gems upon the new-made crown,", "And hailed the Shah whose rule would win renown." ] }, { "id": "B3.1.4", "lines": [ "They said: “O king, prepare your men to fight;", "The troops of Turan thunder into sight.”" ] }, { "id": "B3.1.5", "lines": [ "He heard their words, then turned his gaze that day", "On Afrasiab and all his vast array." ] } ] }, { "id": "pc06", "source": "gharan", "target": "kay_qobad", "type": "service", "scene": "Holding the center", "note": "The battle array under the newly crowned Qobad assigns Gharan the center.", "ref": "B3.1.1", "evidence": [ { "id": "B3.1.1", "lines": [ "When Kay Qobad ascended to the throne,", "And claimed the ancient crown and realm his own," ] }, { "id": "B3.1.2", "lines": [ "The chiefs drew near: brave Zal and Gharan bold,", "With Keshvad, Kharrad, Barzin famed of old." ] }, { "id": "B3.1.7", "lines": [ "Then Rostam armed, his heart aflame for fight,", "And rose like a raging elephant in might." ] }, { "id": "B3.1.8", "lines": [ "Iranian ranks were ordered for the fray,", "And girded themselves for bloodshed that day." ] }, { "id": "B3.1.9", "lines": [ "On one wing stood Mehrab of Kabul’s band,", "Upon the other Gostaham took his stand." ] }, { "id": "B3.1.10", "lines": [ "Gharan held fast the center of the field,", "With Keshvad near, whose foes were made to yield." ] }, { "id": "B3.1.11", "lines": [ "Before them Rostam led the van ahead,", "Behind him marched the chiefs where banners spread." ] }, { "id": "B3.1.12", "lines": [ "Behind them Zal and royal Qobad came,", "One hand bore wind, the other carried flame." ] }, { "id": "B3.1.13", "lines": [ "The Kaveh standard streamed before the fight,", "And dyed the world red, yellow, violet-bright." ] } ] }, { "id": "pc07", "source": "keshvad", "target": "kay_qobad", "type": "service", "scene": "Beside Gharan in the center", "note": "Keshvad is explicitly named in the center of Qobad’s battle array. No separate appointment is inferred.", "ref": "B3.1.1", "evidence": [ { "id": "B3.1.1", "lines": [ "When Kay Qobad ascended to the throne,", "And claimed the ancient crown and realm his own," ] }, { "id": "B3.1.2", "lines": [ "The chiefs drew near: brave Zal and Gharan bold,", "With Keshvad, Kharrad, Barzin famed of old." ] }, { "id": "B3.1.7", "lines": [ "Then Rostam armed, his heart aflame for fight,", "And rose like a raging elephant in might." ] }, { "id": "B3.1.8", "lines": [ "Iranian ranks were ordered for the fray,", "And girded themselves for bloodshed that day." ] }, { "id": "B3.1.9", "lines": [ "On one wing stood Mehrab of Kabul’s band,", "Upon the other Gostaham took his stand." ] }, { "id": "B3.1.10", "lines": [ "Gharan held fast the center of the field,", "With Keshvad near, whose foes were made to yield." ] }, { "id": "B3.1.11", "lines": [ "Before them Rostam led the van ahead,", "Behind him marched the chiefs where banners spread." ] }, { "id": "B3.1.12", "lines": [ "Behind them Zal and royal Qobad came,", "One hand bore wind, the other carried flame." ] }, { "id": "B3.1.13", "lines": [ "The Kaveh standard streamed before the fight,", "And dyed the world red, yellow, violet-bright." ] } ] }, { "id": "pc08", "source": "rostam", "target": "kay_kavus", "type": "protection", "scene": "Restoring the captive Shah’s sight", "note": "Rostam returns with the White Div’s blood and restores the sight of Kay Kavus and the captive chiefs. The record preserves the concrete rescue episode.", "ref": "B5.7.56", "evidence": [ { "id": "B5.7.56", "lines": [ "He reached the Shah; a joyful cry rang clear,", "And all the captive champions gathered near." ] }, { "id": "B5.7.57", "lines": [ "They rushed to greet him, praising Rostam’s name,", "And hailed the chief who crowned himself with fame." ] }, { "id": "B5.7.58", "lines": [ "He said: “Rejoice! The White Div now is slain;", "His power is broken and his strength made vain." ] }, { "id": "B5.7.59", "lines": [ "I ripped the liver from his body dark;", "Of White Div’s dreaded name remains no mark.”" ] }, { "id": "B5.7.60", "lines": [ "Kavus embraced him, tears upon his brow:", "“May crown and army never lack you now." ] }, { "id": "B5.7.61", "lines": [ "Blessed the mother who gave birth to you;", "No woman bore a champion half so true." ] }, { "id": "B5.7.62", "lines": [ "A thousand blessings fall on Zal’s great line,", "And on your Zabul, for this deed divine." ] }, { "id": "B5.7.63", "lines": [ "No age has seen your equal in its span,", "Nor Time produced another such a man." ] }, { "id": "B5.7.64", "lines": [ "My Fortune too is happier in renown,", "To have such lion-slayer serve my crown." ] }, { "id": "B5.7.65", "lines": [ "Now place White Div’s blood upon our eyes,", "That I may see your face beneath the skies.”" ] }, { "id": "B5.7.66", "lines": [ "He touched the blood to every darkened lid,", "And sight returned; the darkness from them slid." ] }, { "id": "B5.7.67", "lines": [ "Their darkened eyes grew Sun-like, clear and bright,", "And all the chiefs rejoiced in new-found sight." ] }, { "id": "B5.7.68", "lines": [ "An ivory throne was raised beneath the king,", "Above it hung the crown in glittering ring." ] } ] }, { "id": "pc09", "source": "rostam", "target": "kay_kavus", "type": "service", "scene": "Named World-Champion", "note": "Kavus raises Rostam as World-Champion after his return to Pars. This is an explicit royal recognition.", "ref": "B6.8.1", "evidence": [ { "id": "B6.8.1", "lines": [ "When Kavus came to Pars, his royal seat,", "The world grew bright, its former bloom complete." ] }, { "id": "B6.8.2", "lines": [ "An age of joy and order then began,", "With justice guiding every work of man." ] }, { "id": "B6.8.3", "lines": [ "He set the throne in balance, firm and right,", "And filled his halls with feasting and delight." ] }, { "id": "B6.8.4", "lines": [ "He sent forth Pahlevans, resolute and wise,", "To rule each province under watchful eyes." ] }, { "id": "B6.8.9", "lines": [ "All crown-bearing kings joined his array,", "And stood as soldiers, ready to obey." ] }, { "id": "B6.8.10", "lines": [ "He raised up Rostam, foremost in renown,", "As World-Champion, glory of the crown." ] } ] }, { "id": "pc10", "source": "rostam", "target": "kay_kavus", "type": "defiance", "scene": "The champion walks out", "note": "After Kavus orders Rostam seized and hanged, Rostam strikes Tus, rejects the Shah’s authority over his strength, and leaves. This breach is an episode, not permanent desertion.", "ref": "B8.13.8", "evidence": [ { "id": "B8.13.8", "lines": [ "At Giv he first unleashed his bitter spite,", "Then turned on Rostam, burning in his sight." ] }, { "id": "B8.13.9", "lines": [ "“Who is this man who scorns my royal call,", "And counts my summons as no thing at all?" ] }, { "id": "B8.13.10", "lines": [ "Were there a sword beneath my hand this day,", "His head should fall; a citron, cast away." ] }, { "id": "B8.13.11", "lines": [ "Seize Rostam now! Go hang him from the height!", "Let him not stand before my royal sight!”" ] }, { "id": "B8.13.24", "lines": [ "In fury Rostam struck Tus with his hand;", "Tus reeled beneath a blow he could not stand." ] }, { "id": "B8.13.25", "lines": [ "As when a raging elephant might pound", "A tabira; headfirst Tus crashed to ground." ] }, { "id": "B8.13.26", "lines": [ "Then Rostam strode beyond the royal hall,", "And left in rage before the eyes of all." ] }, { "id": "B8.13.27", "lines": [ "He mounted Rakhsh, his anger bearing down:", "“I slay the lion; I bestow the crown!" ] }, { "id": "B8.13.28", "lines": [ "When anger wakes, what power has Kavus then?", "What fear have I of kings or armed men?" ] }, { "id": "B8.13.29", "lines": [ "And who is Tus, to lay his hand on me?", "When I grow enraged, who can Kavus be?" ] }, { "id": "B8.13.30", "lines": [ "My strength is mine from God and God alone;", "No king or army gives the might I own." ] }, { "id": "B8.13.31", "lines": [ "I entered life a free man, not a slave;", "I serve the Maker who my spirit gave." ] }, { "id": "B8.13.32", "lines": [ "The earth my servant, Rakhsh my royal seat;", "My gorz decides which foemen face defeat." ] }, { "id": "B8.13.33", "lines": [ "My sword my signet, helmet as my crown;", "My spear and gorz strike the enemy down." ] }, { "id": "B8.13.34", "lines": [ "My two strong arms and heart are sovereign here;", "No earthly crown can make their purpose veer." ] }, { "id": "B8.13.43", "lines": [ "What care I now for Kavus’s empty claim?", "His words are wind that cannot stir my name." ] }, { "id": "B8.13.44", "lines": [ "Go save yourselves; Sohrab will soon appear,", "And leave no great nor lowly standing here." ] }, { "id": "B8.13.45", "lines": [ "Make haste and flee while time remains your friend;", "Without my arm, all Iran meets its end." ] }, { "id": "B8.13.46", "lines": [ "The land is yours; the vulture’s wings are mine;", "I leave you now, and cross no more this line.”" ] }, { "id": "B8.13.47", "lines": [ "He struck his steed and rode in burning rage,", "While fear and grief possessed both chief and sage." ] } ] }, { "id": "pc11", "source": "gudarz", "target": "kay_kavus", "type": "counsel", "scene": "Bringing the Shah back to reason", "note": "Gudarz challenges Kavus’s treatment of Rostam and reminds him of the rescues. Kavus accepts the rebuke and asks that Rostam return.", "ref": "B8.13.65", "evidence": [ { "id": "B8.13.65", "lines": [ "Then Gudarz hurried to the Shah to plead,", "And spoke with measured force that fit the need:" ] }, { "id": "B8.13.66", "lines": [ "“What wrong has Rostam done to earn your scorn,", "That you would drive this hero out forlorn?" ] }, { "id": "B8.13.67", "lines": [ "Why raise such dust through Iran in this strife?", "Why hang the man whose arm has saved your life?" ] }, { "id": "B8.13.68", "lines": [ "A king should never speak in reckless heat;", "Such words make royal dignity retreat." ] }, { "id": "B8.13.69", "lines": [ "Have you forgotten Mazandaran’s night,", "And how he saved you in that desperate fight?" ] }, { "id": "B8.13.70", "lines": [ "When Hamavaran held you bound and low,", "Who broke your chains and struck your greatest foe?" ] }, { "id": "B8.13.71", "lines": [ "If he departs and Sohrab takes the field,", "What strength remains for you to hope to wield?" ] }, { "id": "B8.13.72", "lines": [ "Gazhdaham has seen him; heed his warning plain:", "No man but Rostam should confront his strain." ] }, { "id": "B8.13.73", "lines": [ "If Rostam goes, who meets that wolf-like youth,", "When Gazhdaham has warned us of the truth?" ] }, { "id": "B8.13.74", "lines": [ "A king with Rostam standing at his side,", "Who drives him off has wisdom cast aside." ] }, { "id": "B8.13.75", "lines": [ "Recall his service; weigh it in your mind;", "No gain is born when loyalty is maligned.”" ] }, { "id": "B8.13.76", "lines": [ "The Shah grew still, and reason found its place;", "He saw his fault and owned his deep disgrace." ] }, { "id": "B8.13.77", "lines": [ "The Shah said, “Age gives counsel worth the cost;", "The old see roads that younger eyes have lost." ] }, { "id": "B8.13.78", "lines": [ "A king needs wisdom; haste and rage mislead;", "No lasting good can spring from violent speed.”" ] }, { "id": "B8.13.79", "lines": [ "“You speak the truth,” he said, “your counsel stands;", "Go bring him back; restore him to my hands." ] }, { "id": "B8.13.80", "lines": [ "Tell him my anger rose beyond control;", "I now repent the storm within my soul." ] }, { "id": "B8.13.81", "lines": [ "Bring Rostam back before my royal sight,", "That this dark soul of mine may turn to light.”" ] } ] }, { "id": "pc12", "source": "rostam", "target": "kay_kavus", "type": "counsel", "scene": "Keep the covenant", "note": "Rostam urges Kavus to honor the peace made by Siavash and not force his son to break his word. This advice is separately recorded from the earlier walkout.", "ref": "B9.25.1", "evidence": [ { "id": "B9.25.1", "lines": [ "Then Rostam, lion-hearted, came to greet", "The Shah and stood before the royal seat. " ] }, { "id": "B9.25.2", "lines": [ "He bowed with folded arms; then Kavus rose,", "And clasped the chief whom long ago he chose." ] }, { "id": "B9.25.3", "lines": [ "He asked of Siavash and of the fight,", "The battles waged, the army’s course and plight." ] }, { "id": "B9.25.27", "lines": [ "Then Rostam said: “O Shah, restrain your ire,", "And hear my counsel before feeding fire." ] }, { "id": "B9.25.28", "lines": [ "The world lies wholly subject to your will;", "Yet hear me first, and then your wish fulfill." ] }, { "id": "B9.25.29", "lines": [ "You said before: ‘Do not cross the stream;", "Hold back the army from the battle scheme." ] }, { "id": "B9.25.30", "lines": [ "Wait till Afrasiab himself should fight;", "Then meet his battle with your gathered might.’" ] }, { "id": "B9.25.31", "lines": [ "So we obeyed and waited for his blow,", "But he first opened peace and willed it so." ] }, { "id": "B9.25.32", "lines": [ "It would be shame to strike at one who yields,", "Who comes with peace and feast instead of shields." ] }, { "id": "B9.25.33", "lines": [ "No loyal well-wisher would counsel you", "To break a bond and make your promise untrue." ] }, { "id": "B9.25.34", "lines": [ "When Siavash had conquered in the fight,", "Was not the time for feast and glad delight?" ] }, { "id": "B9.25.35", "lines": [ "What more could you desire? Crown, throne, and seal,", "Iran’s full treasury, and rest made real." ] }, { "id": "B9.25.36", "lines": [ "You have it all; then seek no needless war,", "Nor wash your bright heart with turbid streams more." ] }, { "id": "B9.25.43", "lines": [ "Do not compel your son to break his word,", "Nor urge a deed that guilt would make absurd." ] }, { "id": "B9.25.44", "lines": [ "I speak the truth and hide no part from you:", "Your son will keep his covenant firm and true." ] }, { "id": "B9.25.45", "lines": [ "If you persist, his fortune will grow dim,", "And joy will leave your heart through grief for him.”" ] } ] }, { "id": "pc13", "source": "giv", "target": "kay_khosrow", "type": "protection", "scene": "Across the Jihun", "note": "Giv pledges to defend Khosrow’s life and crosses the river with him and Farangis. The future Shah is not yet reigning in Iran.", "ref": "B10.28.1", "evidence": [ { "id": "B10.28.1", "lines": [ "Then Giv addressed the prince: “If Khosrow’s name", "Is truly yours, this flood shall bring no shame." ] }, { "id": "B10.28.2", "lines": [ "When Fereydoon once crossed the Arvand’s tide,", "His farr made all the world bow at his side." ] }, { "id": "B10.28.3", "lines": [ "If Shah of Iran, refuge of the brave,", "Why should you fear the fury of this wave?" ] }, { "id": "B10.28.4", "lines": [ "With farr and royal station as your right,", "How can these waters overcome your might?" ] }, { "id": "B10.28.5", "lines": [ "If your mother or I sink in the deep,", "Do not lament; your life is ours to keep." ] }, { "id": "B10.28.6", "lines": [ "The world desired the child your mother bore;", "The Shahanshah’s throne will lack its king no more." ] }, { "id": "B10.28.7", "lines": [ "My mother bore me for this very end,", "To serve your throne, your royal life defend." ] }, { "id": "B10.28.8", "lines": [ "Delay, or Afrasiab soon will ride,", "And reach us raging at the river’s side." ] }, { "id": "B10.28.9", "lines": [ "He will then hang me from the gallows high,", "Then cast you both to fish, or hooves, to die.”" ] }, { "id": "B10.28.14", "lines": [ "He rose, a morning star before their sight,", "Then mounted Shabrang, radiant and bright." ] }, { "id": "B10.28.15", "lines": [ "He urged the dark horse into Jihun’s tide,", "And like a ship across the flood did ride." ] }, { "id": "B10.28.16", "lines": [ "With Giv and Farangis close at his side,", "All three passed through the swelling waters wide." ] }, { "id": "B10.28.17", "lines": [ "Beyond the flood they reached the farther land;", "He washed his head and body on the strand." ] } ] }, { "id": "pc14", "source": "rostam", "target": "kay_khosrow", "type": "service", "scene": "An army for Sistan and Hind", "note": "Kay Khosrow entrusts thirty thousand riders to Rostam and gives an explicit campaign charge.", "ref": "C3.3.49", "evidence": [ { "id": "C3.3.49", "lines": [ "From that great army, he chose a mounted band,", "Thirty thousand, each with a sword in hand." ] }, { "id": "C3.3.50", "lines": [ "To Rostam he entrusted all that might,", "And turned to speak before the men of fight." ] }, { "id": "C3.3.51", "lines": [ "He said, “Famed hero, lead this force away", "To Sistan and to Hind without delay." ] }, { "id": "C3.3.52", "lines": [ "From Ghaznin take the upper road, and gain", "The crown and throne and signet of that reign." ] }, { "id": "C3.3.53", "lines": [ "Give Faramarz the crown and signet there,", "With troops he chooses left within his care." ] }, { "id": "C3.3.54", "lines": [ "When you have won the realm and fashioned peace,", "So leopard and lamb may drink while conflicts cease," ] }, { "id": "C3.3.55", "lines": [ "Then sound the brazen koust with all your might;", "Let shaypur sound and ney ring clear and bright." ] }, { "id": "C3.3.56", "lines": [ "In Kashmir and in Kabul, do not stay;", "No longer linger; take the homeward way." ] }, { "id": "C3.3.57", "lines": [ "This war with Afrasiab gives no release;", "I find no food, no sleep, no rest or peace.”" ] } ] }, { "id": "pc15", "source": "lohrasp", "target": "kay_khosrow", "type": "service", "scene": "Before he wears the crown", "note": "Lohrasp receives a field command from Kay Khosrow. He is a royal warrior here; later records treat the same person as Shah.", "ref": "C3.3.58", "evidence": [ { "id": "C3.3.58", "lines": [ "Lohrasp received Alanons, Garcha’s land,", "And set that charge within the hero’s hand." ] }, { "id": "C3.3.59", "lines": [ "To Lohrasp, warrior born of royal race,", "He turned and spoke before him, face to face:" ] }, { "id": "C3.3.60", "lines": [ "He said, “Choose seasoned riders from the lines,", "A mountain-force beneath its battle signs." ] }, { "id": "C3.3.61", "lines": [ "Lead hardened horsemen out to meet the foe,", "And bring the enemy to grief and woe.”" ] } ] }, { "id": "pc16", "source": "ashkash", "target": "kay_khosrow", "type": "service", "scene": "The road to Khwarazm", "note": "Kay Khosrow gives Ashkash thirty thousand horse and orders him against Shideh at Khwarazm.", "ref": "C3.3.62", "evidence": [ { "id": "C3.3.62", "lines": [ "He bade Ashkash lead thirty thousand horse,", "Armed with the spear, a lion-hearted force." ] }, { "id": "C3.3.63", "lines": [ "His wolf-like troops to Khwarazm took their way,", "And bore the mighty koust in their array." ] }, { "id": "C3.3.64", "lines": [ "He bade him camp before Khwarazm’s walls,", "And fight Shideh, who ruled within its halls." ] } ] }, { "id": "pc17", "source": "gudarz", "target": "kay_khosrow", "type": "service", "scene": "The fourth army", "note": "Kay Khosrow entrusts the fourth army to Gudarz and names the chiefs accompanying him.", "ref": "C3.3.65", "evidence": [ { "id": "C3.3.65", "lines": [ "The fourth great army he gave Gudarz to lead,", "With much advice for every coming need." ] }, { "id": "C3.3.66", "lines": [ "“Go with the great men of Iran in pride,", "With Zangeh, Gorgin, Gostaham beside." ] }, { "id": "C3.3.67", "lines": [ "Take Fariborz, Kavus’s son, with you,", "And Farhad, Giv, Guraza, bold Shapur too.”" ] }, { "id": "C3.3.68", "lines": [ "He bade them arm themselves for battle’s fray,", "And hasten to Turan without delay." ] }, { "id": "C3.3.69", "lines": [ "Gudarz, the son of Keshvad, seasoned, shrewd,", "Stood with the chiefs in stern and martial mood." ] }, { "id": "C3.3.70", "lines": [ "They heard and mounted at the king’s command,", "Gudarz rode at the head of every band." ] }, { "id": "C3.3.71", "lines": [ "The Shah then said, “You now are bound for fight;", "Girded for war, keep this command in sight:" ] }, { "id": "C3.3.72", "lines": [ "Take care you do no wrongful deed by might;", "Destroy no thriving home in battle’s spite." ] } ] }, { "id": "pc18", "source": "giv", "target": "kay_khosrow", "type": "service", "scene": "In Gudarz’s commissioned force", "note": "Giv is named among the men assigned to Gudarz’s army by Kay Khosrow. This is subordinate participation, not independent supreme command.", "ref": "C3.3.65", "evidence": [ { "id": "C3.3.65", "lines": [ "The fourth great army he gave Gudarz to lead,", "With much advice for every coming need." ] }, { "id": "C3.3.66", "lines": [ "“Go with the great men of Iran in pride,", "With Zangeh, Gorgin, Gostaham beside." ] }, { "id": "C3.3.67", "lines": [ "Take Fariborz, Kavus’s son, with you,", "And Farhad, Giv, Guraza, bold Shapur too.”" ] }, { "id": "C3.3.68", "lines": [ "He bade them arm themselves for battle’s fray,", "And hasten to Turan without delay." ] }, { "id": "C3.3.69", "lines": [ "Gudarz, the son of Keshvad, seasoned, shrewd,", "Stood with the chiefs in stern and martial mood." ] }, { "id": "C3.3.70", "lines": [ "They heard and mounted at the king’s command,", "Gudarz rode at the head of every band." ] } ] }, { "id": "pc19", "source": "rostam", "target": "kay_khosrow", "type": "counsel", "scene": "Against a royal single combat", "note": "Rostam advises Kay Khosrow against Afrasiab’s proposed duel. The next section says Khosrow changes course after hearing him.", "ref": "C4.27.22", "evidence": [ { "id": "C4.27.22", "lines": [ "Khosrow, when he had heard the message through,", "Spoke to the son of Zal, great Rostam true." ] }, { "id": "C4.27.23", "lines": [ "“This scheming king, whose words deceive us all,", "Still looks from lofty heights and sees no fall." ] }, { "id": "C4.27.24", "lines": [ "He slipped our grasp by cunning of his own,", "And thinks he sits upon Turan’s high throne." ] }, { "id": "C4.27.25", "lines": [ "He speaks so much of battle that, it seems,", "He longs for Shideh’s grave within his dreams." ] }, { "id": "C4.27.26", "lines": [ "No shame would stain me if I faced this man,", "Descended from Fereydoon through Pashang’s clan.”" ] }, { "id": "C4.27.27", "lines": [ "But Rostam answered: “Shah, such fierce desire", "Would make you clasp within your lap a fire." ] }, { "id": "C4.27.28", "lines": [ "It shames a Shah to enter single fight,", "Though Pashang faced him, armed in all his might." ] }, { "id": "C4.27.29", "lines": [ "He says: ‘Fight not my men or kin or land,’", "And asks you thus to stay your army’s hand." ] }, { "id": "C4.27.30", "lines": [ "Your armies stretch from sea to distant sea;", "Their wishes with these terms do not agree." ] }, { "id": "C4.27.31", "lines": [ "If you make vows to him in God’s great name,", "Your heart must bear no guile beneath that claim." ] }, { "id": "C4.27.32", "lines": [ "Now order full assault without delay;", "Let no false counsel turn our strength away.”" ] }, { "id": "C4.28.1", "lines": [ "When Khosrow heard old Rostam’s counsel plain,", "He set a different course for his campaign:" ] } ] }, { "id": "pc20", "source": "zal", "target": "kay_khosrow", "type": "counsel", "scene": "Bitter counsel at the end of a reign", "note": "Zal asks the withdrawing Kay Khosrow to hear an elder’s frank warnings. His account of the Shah’s forebears is Zal’s argument in the poem, not an editorial judgment.", "ref": "C4.53.1", "evidence": [ { "id": "C4.53.1", "lines": [ "Zal heard those words, then rose before Khosrow:", "“O righteous Shah, now hear what age may know." ] }, { "id": "C4.53.2", "lines": [ "Hear what an elder of the world would tell;", "If I give crooked counsel, then rebel." ] }, { "id": "C4.53.3", "lines": [ "Though honest speech is bitter, it can bar", "The door of ruin, visible from far." ] }, { "id": "C4.53.4", "lines": [ "Take therefore in good part the words I say,", "Before this noble group of men today." ] }, { "id": "C4.53.5", "lines": [ "In Turan you were born, and there you dwelt;", "You drank its water, there its comforts felt." ] }, { "id": "C4.53.6", "lines": [ "One forebear, Afrasiab, knew no dream", "But sorcery and every magic scheme." ] }, { "id": "C4.53.7", "lines": [ "Kavus, your other forebear, harsh and old,", "Had furrowed cheeks, a heart that schemes controlled." ] }, { "id": "C4.53.8", "lines": [ "From west to east, all greatness and all power,", "The crown and royal belt were his that hour." ] }, { "id": "C4.53.9", "lines": [ "He wished to pass beyond the heavens’ height,", "And trace the stars through every circling flight." ] }, { "id": "C4.53.10", "lines": [ "Though I advised him often, frank and clear,", "And spoke these bitter warnings for his ear," ] }, { "id": "C4.53.11", "lines": [ "He profited by none of my advice;", "I turned away in sorrow from his vice." ] }, { "id": "C4.53.12", "lines": [ "He soared, then fell down headlong to the dust,", "But holy God preserved his life in trust." ] }, { "id": "C4.53.13", "lines": [ "He came back thankless, dust upon his head,", "His heart possessed by fear and filled with dread." ] } ] }, { "id": "pc21", "source": "zal", "target": "lohrasp", "type": "service", "scene": "Accepting the successor", "note": "Zal recognizes Kay Khosrow’s appointment and explicitly promises service to the new Shah Lohrasp.", "ref": "C4.64.1", "evidence": [ { "id": "C4.64.1", "lines": [ "When escort troops returned with news of woe,", "Lohrasp learned what had passed with Kay Khosrow." ] }, { "id": "C4.64.2", "lines": [ "He sat with golden crown upon the throne,", "And heroes came with golden belts that shone." ] }, { "id": "C4.64.3", "lines": [ "When chiefs and lords had each assumed their place,", "Lohrasp rose up and looked on every face." ] }, { "id": "C4.64.4", "lines": [ "He spoke with feeling, open, clear, and plain,", "And said, “O leaders of the Shah’s domain," ] }, { "id": "C4.64.11", "lines": [ "Zal answered, “Kay Khosrow confirmed your claim,", "And raised you to the throne with royal name." ] }, { "id": "C4.64.12", "lines": [ "I hold his final words as sacred law;", "From his command I never shall withdraw." ] }, { "id": "C4.64.13", "lines": [ "You are the Shah; we are your servants all,", "And we will answer when your orders call." ] }, { "id": "C4.64.14", "lines": [ "I, Rostam, and the men of Zabul’s land", "Will keep our faith and serve at your command." ] }, { "id": "C4.64.15", "lines": [ "Whoever turns from this appointed way", "Shall find all good withdrawn from him that day.”" ] }, { "id": "C4.64.16", "lines": [ "When Zal had spoken, Lohrasp gave him praise,", "Then paused before the chieftains’ watchful gaze." ] } ] }, { "id": "pc22", "source": "rostam", "target": "lohrasp", "type": "service", "scene": "A pledge spoken by Zal", "note": "Zal includes Rostam and Zabul’s men in his pledge to Lohrasp. The evidence is a pledge made on Rostam’s behalf, not a separate speech by Rostam.", "ref": "C4.64.11", "evidence": [ { "id": "C4.64.11", "lines": [ "Zal answered, “Kay Khosrow confirmed your claim,", "And raised you to the throne with royal name." ] }, { "id": "C4.64.12", "lines": [ "I hold his final words as sacred law;", "From his command I never shall withdraw." ] }, { "id": "C4.64.13", "lines": [ "You are the Shah; we are your servants all,", "And we will answer when your orders call." ] }, { "id": "C4.64.14", "lines": [ "I, Rostam, and the men of Zabul’s land", "Will keep our faith and serve at your command." ] }, { "id": "C4.64.15", "lines": [ "Whoever turns from this appointed way", "Shall find all good withdrawn from him that day.”" ] }, { "id": "C4.64.16", "lines": [ "When Zal had spoken, Lohrasp gave him praise,", "Then paused before the chieftains’ watchful gaze." ] } ] }, { "id": "pc23", "source": "zarir", "target": "goshtasb", "type": "service", "scene": "Brother and chief commander", "note": "The narrative explicitly identifies Zarir as Goshtasb’s brother, chief commander and foremost Pahlevan.", "ref": "C6.6.16", "evidence": [ { "id": "C6.6.16", "lines": [ "The Shah, on opening the letter, raged;", "He writhed in wrath that nothing yet assuaged." ] }, { "id": "C6.6.17", "lines": [ "He called Jamasp, his counselor of worth,", "Whose wisdom guided him in rule on earth." ] }, { "id": "C6.6.18", "lines": [ "He called Iran’s sepahbods, chiefs of fame,", "And seasoned lords; the Mobadan too came." ] }, { "id": "C6.6.19", "lines": [ "He spread the Zand-Avesta out in sight,", "And called the priests who served the holy rite." ] }, { "id": "C6.6.20", "lines": [ "He called Zardosht, his prophet, to draw near,", "His Mobad, and his chosen chief, Zarir." ] }, { "id": "C6.6.21", "lines": [ "Zarir, his brother, held the chief command", "Of all the mighty warriors of the land." ] }, { "id": "C6.6.22", "lines": [ "Then he was Pahlevan above his peers;", "Esfandiyar was still a child in years." ] }, { "id": "C6.6.23", "lines": [ "He gave the troops their refuge and their stay,", "And guarded like a king the whole array." ] }, { "id": "C6.6.24", "lines": [ "He kept the world from evil, held it clear;", "In battle he was first to couch his spear." ] }, { "id": "C6.6.25", "lines": [ "Goshtasb addressed Jamasp and brave Zarir,", "And his own son, assembled now to hear:" ] } ] }, { "id": "pc24", "source": "esfandiyar", "target": "goshtasb", "type": "service", "scene": "Command before the promised throne", "note": "Goshtasb puts Iran’s command, troops and banners in Esfandiyar’s care while deferring his accession.", "ref": "C6.21.1", "evidence": [ { "id": "C6.21.1", "lines": [ "One day the bright, fair-fortuned monarch shone,", "In Kayanian glory sat on his throne." ] }, { "id": "C6.21.2", "lines": [ "He gave his audience to the realm’s great men,", "The nobles and chiefs, princes gathered then." ] }, { "id": "C6.21.3", "lines": [ "Then brave Esfandiyar before him came,", "Ox-headed gorz in hand, renowned by name." ] }, { "id": "C6.21.4", "lines": [ "A Kayanian helmet on his moon-bright head;", "He stood before the throne with reverent dread." ] }, { "id": "C6.21.5", "lines": [ "He bowed his head and crossed his hands in grace", "Before the Shah who held the Kayanian place." ] }, { "id": "C6.21.6", "lines": [ "The Shah beheld his son, whom he thought dear", "Beyond his life and all the earthly sphere." ] }, { "id": "C6.21.7", "lines": [ "The smiling Shah said, “Esfandiyar, brave heart,", "Do you not long again for war to start?”" ] }, { "id": "C6.21.8", "lines": [ "The swordsman answered, “Yours alone the voice;", "You hold the world and kingship; yours the choice.”" ] }, { "id": "C6.21.9", "lines": [ "The famous Kayanian gave a crown of gold,", "Unlocked his treasure-house, and wealth was doled." ] }, { "id": "C6.21.10", "lines": [ "He placed Iran’s command beneath his care,", "For Pahlevan-like strength was his to bear." ] }, { "id": "C6.21.11", "lines": [ "He gave him banners, treasure, troops, and said,", "“The time to take the throne still lies ahead." ] }, { "id": "C6.21.12", "lines": [ "Mount now your steed and ride through every land;", "Bring all its peoples to the Faith’s command.”" ] }, { "id": "C6.21.13", "lines": [ "The Shah’s son rode, a swordsman trained to slay,", "And led his army on its distant way." ] } ] }, { "id": "pc25", "source": "esfandiyar", "target": "goshtasb", "type": "counsel", "scene": "Questioning the Rostam mission", "note": "Esfandiyar tells Goshtasb that binding Rostam would violate justice and the royal covenant. This is a remonstrance; it is not labeled a completed refusal or rebellion.", "ref": "C8.3.10", "evidence": [ { "id": "C8.3.10", "lines": [ "Set out for Sistan with your chosen train;", "Use craft and force and guile across that plain." ] }, { "id": "C8.3.11", "lines": [ "Draw sword and raise your gorz; let Rostam see", "His hands in bonds and bring him here to me." ] }, { "id": "C8.3.12", "lines": [ "Bring brave Zavareh, Faramarz beside;", "Let none of them take horse again to ride." ] }, { "id": "C8.3.13", "lines": [ "Then by the Judge, the source of strength and light,", "Who made the sun and moon and stars burn bright," ] }, { "id": "C8.3.14", "lines": [ "When you complete this charge, our strife shall cease;", "From me you shall hear no dispute, but peace." ] }, { "id": "C8.3.15", "lines": [ "I give you treasure, troops, and royal seat;", "And crown you on the throne, your claim complete.”" ] }, { "id": "C8.3.16", "lines": [ "Esfandiyar replied, “O noble king,", "You leave old justice for a crooked thing." ] }, { "id": "C8.3.17", "lines": [ "A sovereign’s speech should measured wisdom bear;", "His words should balance justice, truth, and care." ] }, { "id": "C8.3.18", "lines": [ "Fight Chin’s great king and scatter all his horde;", "Send dust from warriors beaten by your sword." ] }, { "id": "C8.3.19", "lines": [ "Why fight that aged man, whom Kavus named", "A lion-catcher, mighty and acclaimed?" ] }, { "id": "C8.3.20", "lines": [ "From Manuchehr to Kay Qobad, his fame", "Made Iran’s heart rejoice to hear his name." ] }, { "id": "C8.3.21", "lines": [ "They called him Lord of Rakhsh, world-conquering guide,", "King-maker, lion-queller, Iran’s pride." ] }, { "id": "C8.3.22", "lines": [ "His greatness is no rumor newly heard;", "Kay Khosrow pledged his bond and gave his word." ] }, { "id": "C8.3.23", "lines": [ "If royal covenants cannot hold true,", "Why seek a charter, Shah Goshtasb, from you?”" ] } ] }, { "id": "pc26", "source": "piran", "target": "afrasiab", "type": "counsel", "scene": "Make room for Siavash", "note": "Piran urges Afrasiab to welcome Siavash, treat him as a son, and consider a marriage. Afrasiab explicitly approves the counsel.", "ref": "B9.29.16", "evidence": [ { "id": "B9.29.16", "lines": [ "Then Piran said: “O king, may joy be yours;", "May life endure as long as time endures." ] }, { "id": "B9.29.17", "lines": [ "In wisdom, treasure, valor, you excel,", "In every weighty matter judging well." ] }, { "id": "B9.29.18", "lines": [ "My thought and judgment lead me to this view,", "And this is what I counsel now to you." ] }, { "id": "B9.29.19", "lines": [ "Whoever can do good, concealed or known,", "Should not withhold it from this prince alone." ] }, { "id": "B9.29.20", "lines": [ "Let toil and treasure serve him, freely spent,", "And every form of aid be swiftly sent." ] }, { "id": "B9.29.32", "lines": [ "If now the king in wisdom sees it right,", "Then send a letter framed in gentle light." ] }, { "id": "B9.29.33", "lines": [ "Entreat the prince with kindness as your son,", "As loving fathers cherish such a one." ] }, { "id": "B9.29.34", "lines": [ "Prepare for him a dwelling of his due,", "And honor him as honor should accrue." ] }, { "id": "B9.29.35", "lines": [ "Give him a daughter of your royal line,", "With royal honor let his station shine." ] }, { "id": "B9.29.36", "lines": [ "If here he stays, beside your royal seat,", "He may make Turan’s land his own retreat." ] }, { "id": "B9.29.37", "lines": [ "And if he later turns to Kavus’s side,", "The good you did will still with you abide." ] }, { "id": "B9.29.38", "lines": [ "Then Kavus will give thanks for what was done,", "And great men bless your name beneath the sun." ] }, { "id": "B9.29.39", "lines": [ "Through him the armies may from vengeance cease,", "If the Just Creator brings him here in peace." ] }, { "id": "B9.29.40", "lines": [ "This matches justice from the Maker’s hand,", "And sets the course of time and world to stand.”" ] }, { "id": "B9.29.41", "lines": [ "The monarch heard Piran and understood", "What might arise from counsel wise and good." ] }, { "id": "B9.29.42", "lines": [ "Then for a while he weighed it in his mind,", "What good or evil lay concealed behind." ] }, { "id": "B9.29.43", "lines": [ "He said, “Piran, your counsel pleases me;", "In all your words I hear what ought to be." ] }, { "id": "B9.29.44", "lines": [ "Among the tested counselors I know,", "No man can match the wisdom that you show." ] } ] }, { "id": "pc27", "source": "piran", "target": "afrasiab", "type": "service", "scene": "The Shah-appointed road", "note": "Afrasiab’s written command gives Piran a campaign and tribute-collection itinerary; he departs at the head of the army.", "ref": "B9.41.1", "evidence": [ { "id": "B9.41.1", "lines": [ "They passed seven days in joy and good cheer,", "And spoke of kings whose fame all lands revere." ] }, { "id": "B9.41.2", "lines": [ "Upon the eighth, the king’s command was read", "To Piran, chief who Turan’s army led." ] }, { "id": "B9.41.3", "lines": [ "“March first toward Chin and to its distant shore,", "And choose the warriors you will take to war." ] }, { "id": "B9.41.4", "lines": [ "Then reach the borderlands of Hind below,", "And cross the Sind where its broad waters flow." ] }, { "id": "B9.41.5", "lines": [ "Demand the tribute all those regions pay,", "Toward Khazar’s frontier send your array.”" ] }, { "id": "B9.41.6", "lines": [ "Then koust and tabira rang out their sound,", "Their thunder shook the earth and all around." ] }, { "id": "B9.41.7", "lines": [ "From every side the warriors gathered fast", "And formed a battle-seeking army, massed." ] }, { "id": "B9.41.8", "lines": [ "From Turan’s court the army took its course,", "And took the Shah-appointed road in force." ] }, { "id": "B9.41.9", "lines": [ "Before Siavash lay treasure richly made,", "With steeds and dinars splendidly arrayed." ] }, { "id": "B9.41.10", "lines": [ "Then Piran took his leave before he went,", "And led his army out as he was sent." ] } ] }, { "id": "pc28", "source": "houman", "target": "afrasiab", "type": "protection", "scene": "A king pulled from danger", "note": "Houman helps Afrasiab escape Rostam’s grasp in battle. The account credits his stratagems without asserting he was the only helper.", "ref": "B10.9.27", "evidence": [ { "id": "B10.9.27", "lines": [ "Then Rostam wheeled to see who dealt the stroke;", "His hold on Afrasiab at once broke." ] }, { "id": "B10.9.28", "lines": [ "Afrasiab escaped and found another steed,", "And mounted it at once with desperate speed." ] }, { "id": "B10.9.29", "lines": [ "The chiefs roared out; their heavy gorz all rang,", "And iron answered iron with a clang." ] }, { "id": "B10.9.30", "lines": [ "Then Rostam drove swift Rakhsh at Houman’s rear,", "His anger hot, his heavy spear held near." ] }, { "id": "B10.9.31", "lines": [ "He chased Houman, furious in the fight,", "But could not reach him in his headlong flight." ] }, { "id": "B10.9.32", "lines": [ "His destined hour had not yet come, and so", "Fate shielded Houman from the hero’s blow." ] }, { "id": "B10.9.33", "lines": [ "Then men of Iran gathered at his side,", "To guard him from each blade the press might hide." ] }, { "id": "B10.9.34", "lines": [ "By hundred stratagems Houman broke through,", "From Rostam’s dragon-grasp the king he drew." ] }, { "id": "B10.9.35", "lines": [ "Once Afrasiab was safely drawn away,", "Houman withdrew; Rostam still sought the fray." ] } ] }, { "id": "pc29", "source": "bahram_chubin", "target": "hormizd", "type": "service", "scene": "A second Rostam", "note": "Hormizd gives Bahram Chubin the old dragon banner and calls him a second Rostam. Bahram accepts the banner and blesses the Shah.", "ref": "E5.6.92", "evidence": [ { "id": "E5.6.92", "lines": [ "The king grew fresh as roses in the spring,", "And said, “Put on your jowshan; serve your king." ] }, { "id": "E5.6.93", "lines": [ "Depart the palace to the riding-ground;", "Let horse and weapon there with you be found.”" ] }, { "id": "E5.6.94", "lines": [ "His helm and jowshan came at his command;", "He mounted, taking up his coiled kamand." ] }, { "id": "E5.6.95", "lines": [ "The Shah and all his wazirs then went out,", "With arrows, clubs, and polo-balls about." ] }, { "id": "E5.6.96", "lines": [ "Bahram came, jowshan-clad, in Roman helm;", "The Shah then blessed the guardian of the realm." ] }, { "id": "E5.6.97", "lines": [ "He kissed the earth before the royal seat,", "His homage to the king of kings complete." ] }, { "id": "E5.6.98", "lines": [ "Then came the violet dragon-banner bright,", "The flag of Rostam, borne in ancient fight." ] }, { "id": "E5.6.99", "lines": [ "The Shah bestowed it: “Take it from my hand;", "A second Rostam rises in the land.”" ] }, { "id": "E5.6.100", "lines": [ "Bahram then blessed the Shah and took his stand,", "The glorious banner under his command." ] } ] }, { "id": "pc30", "source": "bahram_chubin", "target": "hormizd", "type": "defiance", "scene": "The gift of sharpened swords", "note": "Bahram sends twelve blades as an explicit challenge to Hormizd. After the king breaks and returns them, Bahram calls for a renewed pledge to himself. This records the breach, not an inferred lifelong hostility.", "ref": "E5.23.29", "evidence": [ { "id": "E5.23.29", "lines": [ "Then Bahram sent an envoy to the throne,", "With twelve broad blades of watered steel, well known:" ] }, { "id": "E5.23.30", "lines": [ "Sharp, venom-tempered swords of deadly light,", "A challenge to the monarch and his might." ] }, { "id": "E5.23.31", "lines": [ "Hormizd beheld that grim, defiant load,", "And fury through his royal bosom glowed:" ] }, { "id": "E5.23.32", "lines": [ "He bade smiths take their sledgehammers and smite,", "Till each snapped blade was broken in their sight!" ] }, { "id": "E5.23.33", "lines": [ "He packed the shattered steel to send away,", "With words of bitter malice and dismay." ] }, { "id": "E5.23.34", "lines": [ "When Bahram viewed the fragments in the field,", "Those blades destroyed, too fractured now to wield," ] }, { "id": "E5.23.35", "lines": [ "His wayward spirit filled with darker thought;", "He called the chiefs to view what had been brought." ] }, { "id": "E5.23.36", "lines": [ "“Behold the king’s gift; do not count it small:", "It says our force is worthless, one and all." ] }, { "id": "E5.23.37", "lines": [ "It means no warrior here shall keep his head;", "He marks us all for ruin with the dead.”" ] }, { "id": "E5.23.41", "lines": [ "May such a Shah no longer hold the throne;", "May all reject him and his name disown." ] }, { "id": "E5.23.42", "lines": [ "If Bahram, child of Goshnasp’s blood, again", "Should ride to court to serve this Shah of men," ] }, { "id": "E5.23.43", "lines": [ "May neither brain nor bone of him remain,", "Nor seed of all his lineage on the plain!”" ] }, { "id": "E5.23.44", "lines": [ "He heard them, marked how royal wrongs oppressed", "Their grieving hearts, and then the chiefs addressed:" ] }, { "id": "E5.23.45", "lines": [ "“Stay watchful, clear of mind; Kharrad has shown", "Our hidden matters to the royal throne." ] }, { "id": "E5.23.46", "lines": [ "Let each devise how best to live this day;", "Renew your pledge to me without delay." ] } ] }, { "id": "pc31", "source": "rostam_general", "target": "yazdegard_last", "type": "service", "scene": "The last Shah’s commander", "note": "Yazdegard gathers his troops and gives full command to Rostam son of Ormozd. The later commander is kept distinct from Rostam son of Zal.", "ref": "E10.2.1", "evidence": [ { "id": "E10.2.1", "lines": [ "Umar sent Sa’ad Wakkas to the fray,", "With troops to fight the Shah in full array." ] }, { "id": "E10.2.2", "lines": [ "When Yazdegard heard what the foe had done,", "He gathered troops from every side as one." ] }, { "id": "E10.2.3", "lines": [ "Then Ormozd’s son received the full command;", "His name was Rostam, famed throughout the land." ] }, { "id": "E10.2.4", "lines": [ "A wary warrior, wise in high estate,", "He read the stars and weighed the strokes of fate." ] }, { "id": "E10.2.5", "lines": [ "The Mobad listened closely to his word,", "Attentive to the wisdom that he heard." ] }, { "id": "E10.2.6", "lines": [ "With battle-tested chiefs he took his stand;", "For thirty months he stalled in that wide land." ] }, { "id": "E10.2.7", "lines": [ "At Kadisiya they pursued the fight,", "But Rostam read the heavens’ altered light." ] }, { "id": "E10.2.8", "lines": [ "He said, “This war can bring no victory’s glow;", "The kings’ stream does not through this channel flow.”" ] } ] } ] }