Rumi: A Universal Messenger Amidst Religious Tensions

Jalāl al-Dīn Muammad Rūmī, commonly known as Rumi, was a 13th-century Persian poet, theologian, and Sufi mystic whose work continues to inspire and enlighten people from diverse religious backgrounds. Rumi was not merely a reflective Muslim; he was a man who transcended the superficial forms and symbols of any given religion to explore the deeper, more universal truths that underlie all faith traditions.

The Nature of Rumi's Religiosity

When asked about his beliefs, Rumi famously replied: “I do not care for religion! Religions are not valid before me because every time we brought a new religion, more differences appeared, hatreds and enmity increased, religious wars were repeated, and people's blood spilled on the ground, again and again, in the name of religion. I am not Muslim nor fear nor effort. I bow down to the judgment of reason. Reason says to live and love others. Life is in coexistence with others. Religion instead says to shed the blood of infidels for your reward or they believe that other people's thoughts are not worthy to listen to. For this reason, I do not have religion, so I won't have to shed the blood of others. You my son, only follow the wisdom and love all human kind. It is in loving others that I find the best religion.”

Foregoing Religious Dogma in Favor of Universal Love

Rumi's poetry often emphasizes the importance of interpersonal relationships and the interconnectedness of all beings. He believed that the essence of religion lies in the core values such as love, compassion, and kindness, which are universal and can be experienced beyond any specific religious framework. His works, therefore, advocate for a non-dualistic approach to spirituality that embraces unity and inclusivity.

One of Rumi’s poems captures this spirit beautifully:

Oh God, ??? Me and God are two books ??? Yet in truth, we are one book.

This poem highlights Rumi's belief in the oneness of humanity and the unity of all creation. It suggests that while we might outwardly differentiate ourselves, at the core, we are all part of a single, harmonious entity.

Challenging Traditional Religious Boundaries

Rumi's teachings often went beyond traditional religious boundaries. For instance, his circle included not only Muslims but also Christians, Jews, and people of other faiths. Moreover, these individuals did not need to convert to receive his teachings; instead, they received spiritual growth and understanding through their own existing faith traditions.

Rumi's openness to other religions and his emphasis on mutual respect and understanding have led some to question whether he was truly a Muslim. While his work is deeply influenced by Islamic Sufism, it also transcends specific religious labels, promoting a universal message of love and unity. His view that life is in coexistence rather than confinement, and that religion should not be a justification for violence, brings a modern and inclusive perspective to traditional religious beliefs.

Contemporary Relevance and Influence

Today, Rumi remains a powerful figure in the global conversation about interfaith dialogue and religious pluralism. His teachings continue to challenge and inspire people to appreciate the common threads that connect all religions and to strive for a more harmonious world.

For many, Rumi's non-dualistic approach to spirituality offers a pathway to overcoming religious divisions and fostering a deeper sense of compassion and unity. His message resonates with individuals seeking to reconcile their faith with their understanding of love, peace, and humanity.

Therefore, while Rumi can certainly be seen as a Muslim, his profound and inclusive philosophy transcends religious boundaries, making him a universal messenger for unity and love in a world often divided by dogma and sectarianism.