Kūsh Nāmah Persian 1998

“Kush-nama” is one of the valuable epic poems of Persian literature, narrating the life and adventures of Kush-e Pil-Dandan (Kush the Elephant-Toothed), the nephew of Zahhak. The poem was composed by Iranshan ibn Abi al-Khayr in the early sixth century AH, between 500 and 504 AH, in 10,129 verses using the motagharib meter, and was dedicated to Muhammad ibn Malik-Shah Seljuk.

Considered one of the lesser-known epics of Persian literature, “Kush-nama” presents an extensive account of the life of Kush-e Pil-Dandan, a figure who initially appears as a tyrannical and demonic character, but whose life journey is marked by transformation, awareness, and a return to justice. The narrative connects with Iranian mythological traditions, including stories of Jamshid, Zahhak, and Fereydun, while also incorporating events across eastern and western lands, creating a vast world of myth, history, and legend.

The poem consists of three main sections: an introduction praising God, wisdom, and the Prophet of Islam; a section explaining the origin of the narrative and the discovery of the story of Kush; and the main part, which recounts the long and eventful life of Kush-e Pil-Dandan.

“Kush-nama” holds a unique position among Persian epics due to its distinctive characteristics, including the portrayal of a protagonist who, unlike traditional epic heroes, begins as an enemy of Iran and a symbol of evil; the extensive presence of Islamic and Semitic elements; and its alternative interpretations of certain familiar figures and events from the Shahnameh.

The work is also of great scholarly importance, as its only known manuscript is preserved in the British Library, and its critical edition was first prepared by Jalal Matini. This edition, compiled and edited through Matini’s efforts, provides valuable access to a less explored aspect of the Persian epic tradition and the mythological world of Iran.