Overview

In Section 18 of Salaman and Absal (from the Haft Awrang), Jami presents a didactic discourse on the incompatibility of carnal lust (hawa) and effective political governance. He argues that a ruler who is enslaved by sensual passions cannot successfully maintain their sovereignty or defend their realm.

Key Themes

• Sovereignty vs. Lust: Jami asserts that if a king's heart becomes a worshipper of passion (hawa-parast), both his kingdom (mulk) and faith (din) will face ruin. Sensual distraction undermines the focus, discipline, and moral authority required for leadership.
• The Beloved of Victory (Shahid-e Zafar): Instead of pursuing physical beloveds (shahidan-e sade-azar), Jami argues that a true king's sole focus (or qibla) should be victory itself. He personifies victory as the most beautiful beloved, whose curls are the dust of the army's hooves and whose glances are armor-piercing lances.
• Sublimation of Desire: The passage calls ...