The Enduring Appeal of Jalāl ad-Dīn Muhammad Rumi’s Poems and Sayings

Setting aside the question of native genius with which Rumi was plentifully endowed, it’s worth noting that he was a Persian who lived in Turkey and sometimes wrote in Greek. However, these linguistic and cultural influences did not detract from his universal appeal. Instead, they contributed to the richness and depth of his work. Most notable among these influences is the observation that literary art depends on generalizing personal experience. While most generalities are generally true, being an outsider as Rumi was and chose to be provided an additional objective layer to his musings. In this way, he sampled the observations of those around him, particularly those who lay outside his ordinary milieu, enriching his work with a unique and pervasive perspective.

The Evolution of Love as a Universal Theme

One of the most compelling manifestations of Rumi’s work is his synthesis of Greco-Roman myth, where he attributes the creation of birds to the interactions between men and gods. 1200 years later, Rumi put this conjecture on a moral footing, outlining a profound journey of self-enhancement and transformation:

I died to the mineral state and became a plant I died to the vegetal state and became an animal I died to the animal state and became a man Then what should I fear? I have never become less by dying. At the next change, I will die to human nature So that I might lift up my head and wings To soar among the angels.

This simple sentiment can be translated into or out of any language, and it resonates with contemporary ideas about human evolution and spiritual growth. In an era when theoreticians fret whether Artificial Intelligence might not render the human race obsolete, Rumi remains a constant in the contemporary conversation, his words validating the timeless essence of the human condition.

The Popularity of Rumi’s Poetry

Rumi’s popularity can be attributed to several factors:

Accessibility: His poetry is lovely and accessible to people of all cultures and backgrounds. His ability to convey complex spiritual and philosophical ideas through simple and relatable language makes his works approachable to a wide audience. Universal Message: His message of love and tolerance resonates with people across the globe. Rumi’s teachings on the power of love as a unifying force in the universe appeal to many who seek to find common ground in a divided world. Spiritual Dimension: Rumi’s Sufi beliefs add a spiritual dimension to his work that many people find appealing. His deeply spiritual and mystical poetry offers solace and guidance to those seeking a spiritual path.

The main message of Rumi’s poetry is that love is the key to happiness. Rumi believed that love is the most potent force in the universe and that it could overcome any obstacle. This belief is encapsulated in his famous saying, “I don’t have a religion. My religion is love.” This quote succinctly captures the essence of his spirituality, which transcends traditional religious boundaries.

An Eternal Message

What sets Rumi apart is his ability to communicate timeless truths. His poetry and sayings continue to inspire and provoke thought, even in a world vastly different from his own. Literary critics and scholars have praised his work, and it has found a special place in the hearts of many, from poets and philosophers to everyday readers. His words, simple yet profound, continue to speak to the human soul, reminding us of our shared humanity and the power of love to transform and uplift.

As we continue to navigate the complexities of the modern world, Rumi’s message of universal love and the transformative power of the human spirit remains as relevant as ever. His works offer a roadmap for spiritual and emotional growth, encouraging us to embrace the journey of self-discovery and the quest for a more compassionate world.