English
The Old Man's Praise of King Ardeshir
When King Ardeshir took his throne, an old man came forward and stood before him.
The old man's name was Khorad; his tongue and his soul were full of justice.
He answered like this: O king, may you live free of sorrow as long as time endures.
May you always be joyful and victorious, and may your land, crown, and throne rejoice in you.
You have reached such heights that even the birds and beasts line up in ranks before and behind your throne.
You are the great one of the world, from end to end, standing tall above the crowned nobles.
Who could ever describe your justice, when justice and greatness are your very foundation?
We keep adding to our blessings on you, and we offer our prayers to the God of the world,
that we are alive in your time, trusting in your goodness for every deed.
We long to see your face, your fine words, and your kindness.
You can rest assured, for we are safe because of you; may we never break our promise to you.
You have blocked the path of those who wish us harm, from India, from China, and from our rivals.
Plunder, war, and turmoil have scattered away; the roar of the enemy no longer reaches our ears.
May this king endure forever, always in the company of the wise priests.
No king possesses wisdom like yours, and no thought surpasses your judgment.
Through justice you have laid a foundation in Iran, so that our children too may delight in fairness.
In speech you have risen so high that even the old man is made young again by your wisdom.
Minds have grown richer through your words; the world has brightened at the sight of you.
Everyone of noble birth in this gathering is glad because of you and joyful in your justice.
You are the divine robe of honor upon fortune itself, worthy of the crown, the belt, and the throne.
May this king endure with love and justice; the world remembers no ruler like you.
The whole world stands by your judgment and your glory; happy is the one who rests in the shade of your wings.
May the head of the throne be your place forever; may the world lie under your command and your will.