Rumi

Jalāl ad-Dīn Muhammad Rūmī, commonly known as Rumi, was a 13th-century Persian poet, Islamic scholar, theologian, and Sufi mystic. Born on September 30, 1207, in Balkh (present-day Afghanistan), Rumi’s life and work have transcended centuries, influencing countless individuals across cultures and religions.

Rumi’s family fled their homeland due to the Mongol invasion, eventually settling in Konya, Anatolia (modern-day Turkey), where Rumi spent most of his life. He inherited his father’s position as a prominent Islamic scholar, but his meeting with the wandering dervish, Shams-e Tabrizi, marked a profound turning point. The intense spiritual companionship between Rumi and Shams catalyzed a transformative inner journey for Rumi, leading him to compose some of the most profound and enduring poetry in world literature.

Rumi’s poetry, written in Persian (also known as Farsi), reflects his deep spiritual insights, encompassing themes of love, devotion, unity with the divine, and the journey of the soul. His magnum opus, the “Mathnawi,” is a six-volume poetic masterpiece considered one of the greatest works of mystical literature. In addition to the Mathnawi, Rumi’s “Divan-e Shams-e Tabrizi” contains his ghazals and quatrains inspired by his spiritual connection with Shams.

Rumi’s teachings emphasize love as the path to spiritual enlightenment, famously encapsulated in his concept of “divine love” or “ishq-e haqiqi.” His verses often employ metaphorical language, drawing imagery from everyday life to convey profound spiritual truths. His poetry transcends linguistic and cultural boundaries, resonating with audiences around the world.

After Rumi’s death on December 17, 1273, his legacy endured through his poetry and the spiritual tradition of the Mevlevi Order, also known as the Whirling Dervishes, founded by his followers. Rumi’s influence continues to thrive in contemporary culture, inspiring seekers of spiritual wisdom and lovers of poetry globally.