Rumi, Jalal al-Din al-
Etymology and Translations
- Arabic: جلال الدين الرومي
- Turkish: Mevlânâ Celâleddîn-i Rûmî
Introduction
Rumi, Jalal al-Din al- (d. 1273) stands as one of the most influential figures in Islamic mysticism and Persian literature. Born in Balkh (modern-day Afghanistan), he spent much of his life in Qonya (modern-day Konya, Turkey), where he developed the spiritual and literary oeuvre that has captivated global audiences for centuries.
Life and Legacy
- Early Life: Rumi was initially influenced by the existing Sufi paths before experiencing a transformative encounter in 1244, which set him on a new, ecstatic path of aesthetic and emotional mysticism.
- Mawlawiyya (Mevlevi) Order: After Rumi’s death, his followers established the Mawlawiyya Order, known for its distinctive whirling dance or Semâ. This practice symbolizes the mystical journey towards God, emulating the cosmic order by spinning in circles around the shaykh like planets revolving around the sun.
Teachings and Influence
Rumi’s teachings center on the identification of the self with divine Being. He envisioned the Master of the Way as a conduit between God and humanity. He emphasizes humanism, devotion to music, and dhikr (remembrance of God) exercises. His influence permeates Turkish culture and has led to the reconciliation of certain Christian elements with Islam.
Literary Contributions
Rumi produced over seventy thousand verses of Persian poetry, characterized by its ordinary language yet profound themes. His masterpieces exude the divine presence in creation, aiming to inspire joy and evoke spiritual ecstasy in the listener. His most celebrated work, Mathnawi, is a compilation of spiritual outbursts, anecdotal ruminations, and parables. Many followers regard it as revealing the inner meaning of the Quran.
Recommended Books for Further Study
- “The Essential Rumi” by Coleman Barks
- “Rumi: Past and Present, East and West” by Franklin D. Lewis
- “The Sufi Path of Love: The Spiritual Teachings of Rumi” by William C. Chittick
- “Rumi’s Masnavi: A Study of Its Mystical Poetry” by Mojdeh Bayat and Mohammad Ali Jamnia
Key Takeaways
- Ecstatic Sufism: Rumi’s form of spiritual practice emphasizes aesthetics and emotional experiences.
- Whirling Dervishes: The Mawlawiyya Order’s ritual dance reflects deep cosmological and mystical themes.
- Literary Mastery: With over seventy thousand verses, Rumi’s poetry continues to inspire and translate the profound experiences of divine and mystical union.
Conclusion
Rumi, Jalal al-Din al-, marks an essential yet dynamic traverse in the landscape of Islamic mysticism and literary output. His profound influence spans across Persian literature, Sufism, and continues to reach a global audience, seamlessly bridging cultural and spiritual divides through his timeless poetic expressions.
