Four categories of talent

Author: (Persian) Nizami Aruzi Samarqandi
Translator: Zhang Hongnian
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2005-06-01
Features: This book is an important Persian work on literature, poetry, astronomy, and medicine, written between 1156 and 1157. It is divided into four chapters, each with a general introduction followed by anecdotes of ten scholars. The content is detailed and vivid, making it a significant reference for ancient Iranian literature and history, and holding high academic value.
Postscript: It is not to show off my erudition, nor to express my diligent loyalty, but to advise future scholars and praise my master. My master is the unconquerable and invincible king, the sword that defends the state and the religion, a friend of Islam and Muslims, the commander-in-chief of all armies, the pride of kings and rulers, the enemy of infidels and polytheists, the opponent of schismatics and heretics, the model of the age, the protector of humanity, the arm of the Caliph, the glory of the nation, the guardian of Arabs and Iranians, the elite of the world, the sun in the sky, the king of kings, the viceroy of the ruler of believers, Abul Hasan Ali ibn Mas'ud Husayn (may Allah bless him with health and prosperity, and grant him good fortune), the king takes pride in him, and the state flourishes and prospers with him. It is the Almighty God who has enabled him to serve the country and has made his noble deeds shine for the nation. Our other invincible master, Shams al-Dawla Wadid, is supported and cared for by him. May the blessings of Allah and the prosperity of the state always accompany the two great kings. May the generous king, the great ruler, the just philosopher, the invincible master, the pride of the state and the religion, the glory of Islam and Muslims, the king of the Samanid dynasty, always be joyful and live a long life.