English
Part 13
You who seek the heart of every word,
tear your heart away from this ancient house of the world.
It has seen countless people like you and me,
and will never settle down or stay loyal to anyone.
Whether you are a king or a servant,
you are passing, and the world remains.
Whether you live in hardship or with crown and throne,
in the end you must pack up and leave.
Even if you were made of iron, the turning sky would melt you down,
and once you grow old, it shows you no more tenderness.
When the graceful cypress of the body bends with age,
the bright eyes go dim and weep.
The cheeks that were red as blossoms turn pale as saffron,
and a once cheerful, nimble person grows heavy and slow.
Whether you are a king or a lowly subject,
you will find no resting place but the dark earth.
Where are those great ones with their crowns and thrones?
Where are those triumphant, lucky horsemen?
Where are those wise and mighty champions?
Where are those proud leaders of war?
Where are our chosen ancestors?
Where are our brave and pure ones?
They all have earth and clay for a pillow now;
lucky is the one who sowed nothing but the seed of goodness.
King Ardeshir is proof enough of this;
since you hear these words from me, take them to heart.