Ask Hafez 3.0

Hafez (1325/1326–1389/1390) was a renowned Persian lyric poet whose significant body of work, contained in collections of Persian poetry (Divan), holds a revered place in the households of Persian speakers in Iran and around the globe. His verses, often committed to memory, serve as enduring proverbs and expressions. The examination and interpretation of his life and poetry have led to profound insights and reflections, shaping post-fourteenth century Persian literature in unparalleled ways.

Themes prevalent in Hafez's ghazals encompass expressions of love, devotion, faith, and the exposure of societal duplicity. His profound impact on Iranian culture manifests through practices like "Hafez readings" (fāl-e hāfez), the frequent integration of his poetry into traditional Persian music, visual arts, and calligraphy.

This application presents a curated selection of Hafez's poetic creations accompanied by English translations. Among Iranian traditions is the custom of consulting Hafez's Divan when faced with uncertainty or seeking glimpses into the future. As they engage with his works, individuals virtually commune with Hafez by opening his book to a random page and interpreting the verse encountered as guidance. Remarkably, adherents attest to the efficacy of this ritual more often than not. This application aims to replicate this thoughtful interaction.

Moreover, the app boasts a search feature that allows users to explore the entire Divan to pinpoint specific ghazals. Search results facilitate seamless navigation through the selected ghazal for an enriching experience.