Kasra - Persian Capital

The Splendor of Ctesiphon: The Iranian Capital Before the Arab Invasion

In the tapestry of ancient civilizations that have shaped our modern world, few are as enchanting or as complex as the Persian Empire. Its heart, Ctesiphon, was more than just a political center; it was a symbol of cultural and economic prosperity before the Arab invasion in the 7th century CE. Located on the banks of the Tigris River, near present-day Baghdad, Ctesiphon was a city of unparalleled splendor, a melting pot of cultures, and a testament to the architectural, scientific, and artistic achievements of the time.

The Rise of Ctesiphon

Ctesiphon's story is one of resilience and strategic brilliance. Originally a small village, it rose to prominence under the Parthian Empire (247 BCE – 224 CE) and later, the Sasanian Empire (224–651 CE), becoming the capital and the heart of Persian civilization. Its geographical location was no accident; situated on the Silk Road, it was perfectly poised to facilitate trade between the East and the West, making it one of the wealthiest cities of its time.

Architectural Marvels

Among the city's most enduring legacies is the Taq Kasra, also known as the Archway of Ctesiphon. This massive brick structure, with its iconic pointed arch, was part of the royal palace complex and stands as a testament to the engineering prowess of the Sasanians. It was the largest vault of its kind at the time and still impresses modern architects with its grandeur and innovative construction.

A Cultural Melting Pot

Ctesiphon was a bustling hub of intellectual and cultural exchange. Scholars, artists, and traders from all corners of the world were drawn to its flourishing markets and libraries. The city's diverse population contributed to a rich cultural tapestry that featured a blend of Greek, Roman, Indian, and Chinese influences. This confluence of cultures fostered advancements in science, medicine, and philosophy, further elevating Ctesiphon's status as a center of learning and innovation.

The Fall and Its Aftermath

Despite its magnificence, Ctesiphon could not withstand the changing tides of history. In 637 CE, the city fell to Arab forces, marking the beginning of Islamic rule in Persia. The conquest led to significant cultural and religious transformations, and while Ctesiphon's influence waned, its legacy endured through the spread of Persian culture across the Islamic world.

Conclusion

Ctesiphon's story is a poignant reminder of the impermanence of empires and the fleeting nature of earthly splendors. Yet, in its ruins lies the enduring spirit of a civilization that once dazzled the ancient world with its achievements. As we explore these ancient sites and delve into their histories, we not only pay homage to the past but also learn valuable lessons for the future. The Iranian capital before the Arab invasion, with all its grandeur and sophistication, continues to inspire awe and wonder, reminding us of the incredible heights human civilization can reach.

--- The history of Ctesiphon is a captivating chapter in human history, embodying the glory of the Persian Empire and its lasting impact on the world. As we reflect on its legacy, we are reminded of the incredible cultural, architectural, and intellectual achievements that have shaped our global heritage.

Omar Khayyam, born Ghiyath al-Din Abu’l-Fath Umar ibn Ibrahim Al-Nisaburi al-Khayyámi, was an 11th-century Persian poet, astronomer, and mathematician. Raised in the town of Nishapur in present-day northern Iran, Khayyam is thought to have been the son of tent makers, as “al-khayyami” translates to “tent maker.” His diverse talents spanned mathematics, astronomy, and poetry.

1. Mathematical and Astronomical Contributions:

   • Khayyam’s mathematical and astronomical ideas were groundbreaking. His Treatise on Demonstrations of Problems of Algebra (1070) remains a seminal text in algebra. In addition to engaging Euclidean geometry, he offered methods for solving cubic and quadratic equations, introducing the concept of binomial expansion.
   • As part of a scientific team under the patronage of Sultan Jalal al-Din Malekshah Saljuqi, Khayyam built an observatory. There, he precisely measured the length of the solar year, losing only one day every 5,000 years—far superior to the Gregorian calendar’s loss of a day every 3,330 years. He also contributed to the development of the Jalali calendar, a precursor to the modern Iranian calendar.

2. Poetry and the Rubáiyát:

   • Khayyam’s poetic legacy centers around his collection of quatrains, known as the Rubáiyát. These short poems celebrate life’s pleasures while navigating the nuanced political and religious context of their creation.
   • The Rubáiyát was first translated from Farsi into English by Edward Fitzgerald in 1859. Although Fitzgerald’s translations remain influential, it’s important to note that they take liberties with the original content. Some scholars believe Khayyam penned only about 150 quatrains, with peers or predecessors contributing the rest.
   • Khayyam’s indulgent attitudes in the Rubáiyát sometimes contradicted Islamic precepts, leading to his falling out of favor with court patrons. He passed away in 1131.

Khayyam’s poems are enigmatic, rich in symbolism, and explore existential themes—the meaning of life, the transient nature of time, and the mysteries of love and mortality

Hafez & Khayyam

حسن روی تو بیک جلوه که در آینه کرد

این همه نقش** در آینه اوهام افتاد

من ز مسجد بخرابات نه خود افتادم

این هم از عهد ازل حاصل فرجام افتاد

سر نوشت هر کسی در بدو تولدش فرم *  میگیرد.

** نقش = فرم

*فرم :از نظر حافظ فرم همان فرمیست که افلاطون تعریف کرده

*The terms form and matter describe a basic duality in all existence, between the essence or "whatness" of a thing (form) and the stuff that the thing is made of (matter). That such a duality exists is widely held, but the definitions of form and matter have differed throughout the history of philosophy; hence a precise definition of each will differ depending on the specific philosophical system.

و خیام  بینش ازلی را چنین  بیان کرده