25 Jul The Mystic HAFEZ!

Just like the magnificently talented poet Saadi, the impressive HAFEZ was also born in the magical city of Shiraz (~1325). DIVAN is the name of a beautiful collection of his poems. Many proud Persian speakers learn Hafez’ inspiring work by heart and use it in their everyday life as sayings, proverbs or teachings.

I know my father has quoted him often to bring my attention to life’s subtleties. I knew of this beautiful poet before I was old enough to learn understand the depth of his poetic soul.

Below is an excerpt from DIVAN, I hope you enjoy it as much as I do:

“She is not the beauty who hath only waist and hair to boast of: be the obedient slave of her commands only who is all perfection!

The blandishments of Huri and Pari are pleasant: but one whom I could name is the lovely and delightful one.

O rose, approach smilingly the fountain of my eye, which, in the hope of beholding thee, welleth forth in sweet waters.

The curving of thine eyebrows with an archer’s skill taketh the arrow out of the hand of all who hold the bow.

My words must touch the heart, since thou deignest to receive them: indeed and indeed the words of love do leave their tokens!

In the way of love no one hath been fully initiated into the mystery; every one hath a judgment about it according to the measure of his intelligence.”

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