Opinion | Rumi: The Mystic Poet Who Whirled Hearts With Divine Love!

In the small town of Balkh, Afghanistan, on September 30, 1207, a remarkable soul came into this world, destined to leave an indelible mark on humanity. His name was Jalāl al-Dīn Muḥammad Rūmī, but he would become known simply as Rumi. From an early age, Rumi displayed a curiosity and thirst for knowledge that set him apart from his peers. Little did anyone know that this young boy would grow up to be one of the most celebrated poets and mystics in history. Rumi’s family moved to Konya, present-day Turkey, where his father, a respected theologian, continued his religious teachings.

As Rumi grew older in Konya, Turkey, he continued his pursuit of knowledge, immersing himself in various fields of study. His father’s reputation as a religious scholar opened doors for Rumi to interact with prominent theologians and scholars of his time.At the age of 24, Rumi’s life underwent a profound transformation when he met a wandering mystic named Shams Tabrizi in 1244. Their encounter sparked an intense spiritual friendship that forever altered Rumi’s path. Shams became his spiritual mentor and ignited a fire within Rumi’s heart, igniting a passionate search for a deeper connection with God.Under Shams’ guidance, Rumi delved into the realms of mysticism, exploring the depths of Sufi spirituality. The two spent hours engaged in profound conversations and spiritual practices, often to the bewilderment of those around them. Shams’ sudden disappearance in 1248 plunged Rumi into a state of profound grief, yet it also catapulted him further into the realms of divine love and longing.During this transformative period of his life, Rumi began composing poetry as a means to express his profound spiritual experiences and emotions. His poetic outpourings became a testament to his love for the Divine, and his words carried a universal message of love, compassion, and unity.
“Let yourself be silently drawn by the strange pull of what you really love. It will not lead you astray.”
This quote by Rumi encourages individuals to follow the natural attraction and inclination towards the things they truly love and are passionate about. Rumi speaks of a “strange pull,” which refers to an inner calling or intuition that draws us towards specific interests, dreams, or pursuits in life.Rumi’s message is about trusting this inner pull and being receptive to its guidance. When we align ourselves with what genuinely brings us joy and fulfillment, we are more likely to find our purpose and meaning in life. Following our heart’s desires does not necessarily guarantee an easy path, but it assures us that we are moving in the right direction for our soul’s growth and well-being.By heeding this silent pull, we can tap into our authentic selves and discover the true essence of who we are. It encourages us to listen to our inner voice and embrace the journey, no matter how unconventional it may seem to others. Rumi assures us that by following what we genuinely love, we will find fulfillment and not be led astray from our true path in life. This way, we can live a life that is more meaningful, purposeful, and in harmony with our deepest aspirations.
Rumi’s poetry and teachings attracted a devoted following, and he established a spiritual community around him. He also developed a deep bond with a wandering dervish named Salahuddin-e Zarkub, who played a significant role in further shaping Rumi’s spiritual journey.In 1273, at the age of 66, Rumi breathed his last breath, leaving behind a legacy of love and spiritual wisdom that continues to inspire people worldwide. His disciples, recognizing the immense impact of his teachings, formed the Mevlevi Order, popularly known as the Whirling Dervishes, to honor his memory.The order embraced dance and music as a form of worship, seeking to achieve a state of spiritual union with the Divine through ecstatic dance ceremonies. Today, these mesmerizing whirling ceremonies stand as a testament to the enduring influence of Rumi’s spiritual journey and his profound contribution to world literature.Though Rumi’s physical presence may have departed, his spiritual essence lives on through his timeless poetry, touching the hearts and souls of countless individuals who seek inner peace, love, and a deeper connection with the divine source. His works continue to resonate across cultures and generations, carrying the message of love as a bridge that unites all of humanity in a shared journey towards spiritual enlightenment.
Rumi’s achievements and magic are found in his timeless poetry, which remains relevant and captivating after over 800 years. His universal message of love, compassion, and unity transcends cultural and religious boundaries, resonating with people worldwide. Through his deep understanding of Sufi mysticism, he offered profound insights into spiritual experiences and devotion to the Divine.His disciples formed the Mevlevi Order, known as the Whirling Dervishes, to carry on his legacy. Rumi’s influence on literature has inspired countless poets and writers globally. His words have the power to touch the depths of the soul, leading to inner transformation and spiritual growth for many.Rumi’s life and teachings continue to inspire seekers and truth-seekers across generations. He has become a cultural icon celebrated in various art forms, music, and performances. His emphasis on love and unity serves as a powerful reminder of the potential to bridge divides and foster understanding among people from diverse backgrounds. Rumi’s magic lies in his ability to infuse spirituality with love and joy, making him an eternal source of guidance and inspiration.
– The author is a Sopore-based writer, a Civil Services’ aspirant and has BCA degree from Kashmir University. He can be reached at hackermudu@gmail.com