Selections from the Golestan of Sa’di (1)

Saadi Shirazi is one of the most important poets and storytellers of the 13th century. He left an indelible mark on Persian literature with his profound works. Among his many compositions, the Bustan and the Golestan stand as his most celebrated masterpieces, displaying his mastery of language and profound insights into human nature.

The Golestan (sometimes transliterated as Gulistan) is one of the three pillars of Persian literature, alongside Ferdowsi’s Shahnameh and Rumi’s Masnavi. It was completed in 656 AH and is known as Saadi’s intellectual journey across the Middle East and beyond. The journey began in Shiraz, where he diligently pursued his education. Upon completing his studies, he embarked on a series of extensive travels. His accounts of these journeys, woven into his works, paint vivid pictures of diverse cultures and customs. Driven by a thirst for knowledge and a desire to broaden his horizons, Saadi’s travels extended beyond mere exploration. Each journey served as a spiritual odyssey, deepening his understanding of the world and his place within it.

The fruits of Saadi’s travels and intellectual pursuits are manifested in a rich tapestry of stories, anecdotes, and observations rooted in the realities of life. Each tale in the Golestan serves as a window into the human experience, offering timeless lessons in morality, social conduct, and the pursuit of knowledge.

Saadi’s wisdom and wit resonated with the common people, and many of his sayings from the Golestan have become ingrained in Persian folklore and proverbs.
The Golestan’s influence extended beyond Persia’s borders, reaching audiences across the globe. In 1634, the first translation of the Golestan into a European language emerged, with André du Ryer rendering the work into French. Since then, countless translations have been made, bringing Saadi’s timeless wisdom to readers worldwide.

Saadi’s Golestan is famous for its rhythmic structure. The rhymed prose of Golestan is pleasing to the ear and easy to remember. In Saadi’s hands, the Persian language transforms into a pliable medium, effortlessly molded to convey his profound messages. His masterful use of carefully chosen words and polished phrases not only delivers his intended meaning but also preserves the beauty and harmony of his prose.

1. Fascinating stories: Golestan isn’t a boring history textbook. It’s packed with engaging fables, funny anecdotes, and poems about love, loss, and the beauty of life.
2. A Brain Workout: Reading Golestan isn’t just fun, it’s a mental workout. You’ll encounter thought-provoking proverbs, groan-worthy puns (in a good way), and stories that challenge your assumptions.
3. A literary masterpiece: “Golestan” is a classic for a reason. Its elegant prose, engaging stories, and profound insights have captivated readers for centuries. Join the legacy that inspired great minds like Rumi, Goethe, and Emerson!
4. Not as hard as you think:  “Golestan” is written in a beautiful, accessible style, with short stories and sayings you can easily pick up and read between classes or late-night study sessions. It’s a light and engaging read, promising quick bursts of wisdom.