Rudaki Memorial Day – Honoring the Father of Persian Poetry
On December 24, we commemorate Rudaki, the pioneering classic of Persian literature. Living in the 9th–10th centuries, Rudaki elevated Persian poetry to new artistic heights, becoming a beacon of inspiration for generations. His profound words, filled with wisdom, emotion, and beauty, continue to resonate across cultures.
In Georgia, Rudaki’s legacy has been cherished and studied through translations by prominent Georgian Iranists, including Davit Kobidze, Magali Todua, Vakhushti Kotetishvili, Aleksandre Gvakharia, and Aleksandre Elerdashvili.
Here are a few timeless excerpts from Rudaki’s poetry:
“‘If you’re the king of your own self, you’re a good man,
If you don’t fault the deaf and blind, you’re a good man,
If you don’t kick a fallen one whilst he’s down,
And support him instead, you’re a good man.’”
“There are four elements which liberate us from sorrow:
A healthy body, a gentle disposition, a kind name, and wisdom.
Anyone who is bestowed these four things by the Creator,
Is worthy of living in eternal merriment without sorrow.”
Rudaki’s verses remind us of the fleeting nature of life, the power of love, and the beauty in seizing the moment. His poetry is a timeless celebration of humanity and art.
Let us honor Rudaki’s genius by revisiting his work and reflecting on the universal truths he so eloquently captured.
Rudaki Memorial Day – Honoring the Father of Persian Poetry 
On December 24, we commemorate Rudaki, the pioneering classic of Persian literature. Living in the 9th–10th centuries, Rudaki elevated Persian poetry to new artistic heights, becoming a beacon of inspiration for generations. His profound words, filled with wisdom, emotion, and beauty, continue to resonate across cultures.
In Georgia, Rudaki’s legacy has been cherished and studied through translations by prominent Georgian Iranists, including Davit Kobidze, Magali Todua, Vakhushti Kotetishvili, Aleksandre Gvakharia, and Aleksandre Elerdashvili.
Here are a few timeless excerpts from Rudaki’s poetry:
“‘If you’re the king of your own self, you’re a good man,
If you don’t fault the deaf and blind, you’re a good man,
If you don’t kick a fallen one whilst he’s down,
And support him instead, you’re a good man.’”
“There are four elements which liberate us from sorrow:
A healthy body, a gentle disposition, a kind name, and wisdom.
Anyone who is bestowed these four things by the Creator,
Is worthy of living in eternal merriment without sorrow.”
Rudaki’s verses remind us of the fleeting nature of life, the power of love, and the beauty in seizing the moment. His poetry is a timeless celebration of humanity and art.
Let us honor Rudaki’s genius by revisiting his work and reflecting on the universal truths he so eloquently captured.
