Concept

The Allegory of the Crane and the Falcon in Jami's Haft Awrang

In Section 101 of Jami's Haft Awrang, the story of the crane (kolang) that attempts to hunt pigeons like a falcon (baz) serves as an allegory warning against greed (tama'), greed-driven ambition, and the foolish imitation of others' natures.

Narrative Summary

A crane lives contentedly on the banks of the Tigris, catching waterworms and flying high, free from the humiliation of greed. One day, it witnesses a swift falcon swoop down, capture a pigeon, eat a small portion, and leave the rest due to its noble and high-spirited nature. Filled with envy and a desire to mimic the falcon, the crane abandons its modest diet of waterworms to chase after pigeons. In doing so, it fails to capture any pigeons, loses its ability to catch waterworms, and ultimately becomes prey itself.

Core Allegorical Themes

  • The Danger of Greed and Covetousness: The narrative warns that greed (tama') degrades a person's dignity and leads to loss of contentment (qana'at).
  • **The Folly ...

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Updated 2026-07-07

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Humanities

Literature

Persian Literature Prerequisite Course