Rumi Biography – Persian Poet, Islamic Scholar, Sufi Mystic, Persian Literature, Legacy
Rumi. See page for author, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Rumi Biography and Legacy
Rumi, born Jalāl ad-Dīn Muhammad Rūmī in 1207 in present-day Afghanistan, was a 13th-century Persian poet, Islamic scholar, and Sufi mystic. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest poets in history, and his work transcends national and ethnic borders.
Rumi’s poetry primarily focuses on themes of love, spirituality, and the quest for union with the divine. His most famous works include the Masnavi (Mathnawi), a vast six-book spiritual poem, and the Divan-e Shams-e Tabrizi, a collection of lyrical poems inspired by his spiritual mentor, Shams of Tabriz.
Rumi’s influence has grown over time, particularly in the West, where his poetry has been embraced for its deep spiritual insights, promoting values of tolerance, unity, and the love of God. His work continues to inspire readers globally, crossing religious, cultural, and linguistic divides.
Early Life
Rumi was born on September 30, 1207, in the city of Balkh, located in present-day Afghanistan, which was then part of the Persian Empire. His father, Baha ud-Din Walad, was a well-respected Islamic scholar, preacher, and mystic, often referred to as “Sultan of the Scholars.” Rumi’s mother, Mu’mina Khatun, was believed to be of noble descent.
Rumi’s early life was shaped by his father’s teachings and spiritual influence. When Rumi was a young boy, around 1215 or 1216, his family fled Balkh to escape the impending Mongol invasions. This migration took them through various regions of the Islamic world, including Nishapur in Iran, where Rumi met the famous Persian poet and mystic, Attar, who reportedly recognized Rumi’s spiritual potential and gave him a copy of his book, The Book of Mysteries (Asrar Nama).
Eventually, the family settled in Konya, a city in present-day Turkey, then part of the Seljuk Empire. Rumi’s father became a prominent figure there, leading a madrasah (religious school), and after his death in 1231, Rumi took over his father’s role as a religious teacher and scholar.
Rumi’s early life was marked by extensive religious education and exposure to a variety of intellectual and spiritual influences, laying the groundwork for his later mystical development.
Early Education
Rumi’s early education was deeply rooted in the Islamic tradition, reflecting his family’s scholarly and spiritual background. His father, Baha ud-Din Walad, was not only a respected Islamic scholar but also a Sufi mystic, and he played a central role in Rumi’s intellectual and spiritual development.
Islamic Theology and Jurisprudence (Fiqh)
Rumi was trained in Islamic law and jurisprudence, as was typical for someone from a scholarly family. He studied Hanafi jurisprudence, one of the four major Sunni schools of law, which later allowed him to take over his father’s role as a religious leader.
Quranic Studies
Rumi learned to recite and interpret the Quran at an early age. His poetry and later works are infused with Quranic references and Islamic teachings, showing his deep familiarity with the sacred text.
Hadith Studies
He studied the sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad, known as Hadith, which were essential for understanding Islamic law and ethics.
Sufism and Spiritual Mysticism
Although Rumi’s early education was formal and rooted in Islamic law, he was exposed to Sufism, largely through his father’s teachings. Sufism emphasizes the inner, mystical aspects of Islam, focusing on the believer’s personal relationship with God.
Literature and Persian Poetry
While his education was grounded in religion, Rumi was also exposed to Persian literary traditions. This early exposure influenced his own writing style, which is rich with allegories, metaphors, and lyrical beauty.
Mentorship from Attar of Nishapur
During his travels as a child, Rumi briefly met the renowned Persian poet and mystic, Attar. Though this encounter was brief, it is said to have left a deep impression on Rumi. Attar’s mystical poetry, particularly his book The Conference of the Birds, would later influence Rumi’s own poetic works.
Scholarly Travel
After settling in Konya, Rumi’s formal education continued under various scholars. He also traveled to cities like Damascus and Aleppo, both centers of Islamic learning at the time, where he deepened his understanding of religious and philosophical thought.
Thus, Rumi’s early education combined the rigorous study of Islamic law and theology with a deepening exposure to the mystical dimensions of Sufism, which would later come to define his spiritual path.
Becoming a Poet
Rumi’s journey to becoming a poet was deeply intertwined with his spiritual transformation, particularly through his relationship with Shams of Tabriz, a wandering Sufi mystic. Although Rumi was already a respected Islamic scholar and teacher by the time of their meeting, it was this profound friendship that awakened his poetic voice and mystical expression.
Meeting Shams of Tabriz (1244)
Rumi’s encounter with Shams of Tabriz in 1244 marked the turning point in his life. Shams was an unconventional and intense Sufi mystic, whose teachings and spiritual presence profoundly impacted Rumi. Shams challenged Rumi to look beyond traditional religious scholarship and experience direct, mystical union with the Divine. Their relationship was not just intellectual but deeply spiritual, and it awakened in Rumi a profound sense of love and longing for God. This intense emotional and spiritual bond opened a new realm of expression for Rumi. He began to write poetry, pouring out verses about divine love, longing, and spiritual transformation, often inspired by his relationship with Shams.
The Disappearance of Shams
After an intense period of friendship and spiritual communion, Shams mysteriously disappeared, either because he was murdered or chose to leave. This loss devastated Rumi, and his grief found expression in poetry. The absence of Shams transformed Rumi’s personal love for him into a universal, mystical love for God, and his poetry reflected this spiritual evolution.
Poetic Outpouring
Following Shams’ disappearance, Rumi entered a period of prolific poetic creation. He composed thousands of poems, particularly in the form of ghazals (lyric poems) and rubaiyat (quatrains), which were later collected in the Divan-e Shams-e Tabrizi (The Collected Poems of Shams of Tabriz). This collection, named after his beloved friend, is one of Rumi’s most famous works, filled with themes of love, loss, longing, and the search for the divine.
How Poetry Became Rumi’s Medium
Rumi’s poetry was not merely a creative outlet but a form of spiritual expression. For him, poetry became a way to articulate the inexpressible experiences of divine love, union, and longing. He believed that words could point toward deeper truths, though they were always limited compared to the mystical experience itself. His use of metaphor, symbolism, and allegory allowed him to convey spiritual realities in a way that transcended ordinary religious language.
Rumi often composed his poems spontaneously, sometimes while teaching, dancing, or in deep spiritual states. The spontaneous and ecstatic nature of his poetry reflects the deep connection between his spiritual practices, such as the whirling dervish dance, and his creative output.
Life as a Poet
After Rumi became a poet, his life was marked by deep spiritual growth, public recognition, and the establishment of a lasting legacy, both as a spiritual leader and as a poet. His transformation through poetry not only reshaped his personal life but also had a profound impact on the community around him.
Spiritual Leadership and Teaching
Even after his shift from scholar to mystic poet, Rumi continued to play a prominent role as a religious teacher and spiritual guide in Konya. His followers grew in number, and he became known not just for his scholarly knowledge but for his mystical insight and poetic expression of divine love. He taught students and gave sermons, but his teachings became more focused on Sufi mysticism and the inner journey toward union with God, which was central to his poetry.
Rumi also led the Mevlevi order, a Sufi brotherhood that would later become known for the practice of the “whirling dervishes” – a meditative dance that mirrors the spiritual themes of movement, inner transformation, and connection to the divine, which Rumi often evoked in his poetry.
Continued Mourning and Love for Shams
The disappearance of Shams remained a defining event in Rumi’s life even after he became a prolific poet. His grief transformed into a spiritual longing for the divine, and Shams became a symbol of the divine beloved in much of his poetry. This profound emotional and spiritual yearning fueled his poetic output for years.
Although Rumi continued to mourn the loss of Shams, he formed new deep spiritual relationships, including with his disciple Husam al-Din Chalabi, who encouraged him to write the Masnavi. Another close companion was Salah al-Din Zarkub, a goldsmith whom Rumi held in high regard, and whose presence provided further inspiration for his poetry.
Writing of the Masnavi (Mathnawi)
In the later years of his life, Rumi began to compose his masterwork, the Masnavi (or Mathnawi), a six-volume spiritual poem that became one of the most important works in Sufi literature. Written in rhyming couplets, the Masnavi is a rich blend of parables, fables, and spiritual teachings aimed at guiding seekers on the path to divine truth.
The Masnavi was written over many years, with Rumi often dictating verses to his disciple Husam al-Din Chalabi. The work was more structured than his earlier lyrical poetry and served as a comprehensive guide to understanding Sufi mysticism.
Growth of the Mevlevi Order
As Rumi’s fame spread, his teachings and poetry attracted a wide circle of disciples. This led to the eventual formation of the Mevlevi order (also known as the “Whirling Dervishes”), a Sufi brotherhood that practiced rituals of music, dance, and poetry as a means of attaining spiritual connection with God. Though the Mevlevi order was formally established by Rumi’s son, Sultan Walad, after Rumi’s death, it was deeply rooted in the spiritual and poetic traditions that Rumi had established.
The Sema, the ritual dance performed by the Mevlevi dervishes, symbolized the soul’s journey toward divine love, an idea often reflected in Rumi’s poetry. This dance became one of the lasting legacies of Rumi’s mystical practices and was an embodiment of his teachings on divine unity and love.
Fame and Influence
Rumi’s poetry spread far beyond his immediate circle, and during his later years, he became widely known throughout the Islamic world. His reputation as both a scholar and a mystic poet attracted students, travelers, and pilgrims to Konya from across the Middle East and Central Asia. His poetry, infused with universal themes of love, longing, and divine union, resonated deeply with people from various backgrounds.
Despite his growing fame, Rumi lived a life focused on spiritual practice and teaching rather than worldly concerns. His poetry reflected this, often emphasizing the importance of transcending the ego and connecting with the divine.
Rumi’s Philosophy
Rumi’s philosophy was deeply rooted in the mystical tradition of Sufism, focusing on themes of divine love, the unity of existence, and the spiritual journey of the soul toward God. His teachings transcended formal religious boundaries and emphasized a personal, experiential relationship with the Divine.
Divine Love (Ishq-e-Haqiqi)
At the heart of Rumi’s philosophy is the concept of Ishq, or divine love. For Rumi, love is the fundamental force that drives the universe and connects all beings to God. This love is not just emotional but is the very essence of existence, a spiritual power that guides the soul back to its source. Rumi’s poetry frequently explores the metaphor of the lover and the beloved, where the lover represents the human soul and the beloved represents God. The intense longing and passion described in his poems symbolize the soul’s yearning for union with the Divine.
In Rumi’s view, everything in life, from joy to suffering, is a manifestation of divine love, and understanding this love brings one closer to God. He writes:
“The minute I heard my first love story,
I started looking for you, not knowing
how blind that was.
Lovers don’t finally meet somewhere.
They’re in each other all along.”
Unity of Being (Wahdat al-Wujud)
Rumi believed in the oneness of all existence, a concept known as Wahdat al-Wujud (Unity of Being). According to this philosophy, all things in the universe are interconnected and ultimately emanate from the same divine source. God is not separate from creation but is present in everything, and the purpose of life is to realize this unity.
Rumi often used metaphors like the ocean and its waves to explain this idea. Individual souls are like waves on the ocean of divine existence; they appear separate but are, in essence, part of the same whole. The ultimate spiritual goal is to transcend the illusion of separation and realize one’s oneness with the Divine.
He wrote:
“You are not a drop in the ocean.
You are the entire ocean in a drop.”
The Spiritual Journey (Sulook)
Rumi’s philosophy emphasizes the spiritual journey, or Sulook, which involves moving from the material world to a deeper connection with the Divine. This journey is one of self-discovery and transformation, where the ego is gradually dissolved in order to experience the divine presence within.
In his work, particularly the Masnavi, Rumi used stories, parables, and metaphors to describe the stages of the spiritual journey. He often spoke of the importance of spiritual practice (such as prayer, meditation, and whirling) as tools to purify the heart and mind, allowing the seeker to move closer to God. He believed that the ultimate goal of the journey was to attain Fana, the annihilation of the self in the presence of the Divine, and Baqa, the state of remaining in God after this annihilation.
The Role of the Teacher (Murshid) and Companionship
In Rumi’s philosophy, the relationship between a spiritual seeker and a guide (known as a Murshid or Pir) is essential. Rumi’s own relationship with Shams of Tabriz exemplifies this dynamic. The teacher, through wisdom and presence, helps the seeker strip away illusions and ego, guiding them toward the truth.
Similarly, companionship with other seekers plays an important role in the spiritual journey. Rumi believed that love and friendship with other seekers create a shared energy that brings one closer to God. This is reflected in his emphasis on the Sufi community and rituals like the Sema (whirling dance), which foster a collective spiritual experience.
Selflessness and Ego-Transcendence
Central to Rumi’s philosophy is the need to transcend the ego (nafs). The ego is seen as the barrier between the individual and God, the source of all selfishness, pride, and attachment to the material world. Rumi taught that one must overcome the ego in order to experience true love and unity with the Divine.
Through love, selflessness, and surrender, one can dissolve the illusions of the self and awaken to the divine reality. This process is painful, as it requires letting go of worldly attachments and desires, but Rumi saw suffering as a necessary part of spiritual growth. He frequently used the metaphor of fire or burning to describe the transformative power of love:
“When you go through a hard period,
when everything seems to oppose you…
Remember, diamonds are made under pressure,
and olives are pressed to release oil.
Seeds grow in darkness, and
birds get strength to fly against the wind.”
Acceptance and Non-Judgment
Rumi advocated for an open, accepting, and non-judgmental approach to life and spirituality. He believed that all paths lead to God, and he encouraged tolerance and understanding among different faiths and belief systems. His famous lines:
“Come, come, whoever you are,
Wanderer, worshiper, lover of leaving,
It doesn’t matter.
Ours is not a caravan of despair.
Come, even if you have broken your vows a thousand times.
Come, yet again, come, come.”
This invitation to all, regardless of background or past, reflects Rumi’s belief in the inclusivity of divine love. His philosophy transcends religious boundaries, and he often speaks of a direct, personal connection with God that goes beyond formal religious practice.
Symbolism of Nature and the Universe
Rumi often used symbols from nature—such as the sun, moon, flowers, and birds—to express his mystical ideas. He saw the natural world as a reflection of the divine, filled with signs of God’s presence. In his poetry, the sun often represents divine love, and the night the soul’s longing. The rose and the nightingale, commonly found in Persian poetry, are symbols of the lover and the beloved.
This focus on nature reflects Rumi’s belief that the entire universe is a mirror of the divine, and that one can find traces of God’s presence in all things, from the smallest grain of sand to the stars in the sky.
Rumi’s philosophy is a profound blend of Sufi mysticism, love, and unity, with a focus on the soul’s journey toward God. Through the transformative power of divine love, the dissolution of the ego, and the recognition of the unity of all existence, Rumi’s teachings offer a path to spiritual enlightenment and a deep connection with the divine. His philosophy, expressed so beautifully through his poetry, continues to resonate with people across the world, transcending religious, cultural, and temporal boundaries.
Death
Rumi passed away on December 17, 1273, in Konya. His funeral was attended by people from diverse religious backgrounds—Muslims, Christians, Jews, and others—reflecting his wide-reaching influence. His death marked the end of an era, but the Mevlevi order carried on his teachings and traditions.
Rumi’s poetry continued to spread after his death, eventually becoming celebrated far beyond the Islamic world. Today, his works have been translated into many languages and are widely read across cultures, often for their deep insights into love, spirituality, and the human condition.
Legacy
Rumi’s legacy and significance today are vast, extending across multiple cultures, religious traditions, and artistic forms. His poetry and philosophy continue to inspire people around the world, offering a message of love, unity, and spiritual transcendence that transcends boundaries of time, geography, and faith.
Universal Appeal Across Cultures and Religions
Rumi’s teachings and poetry have universal resonance, which has allowed him to transcend the confines of his original Islamic and Persian context. His emphasis on love, the unity of all existence, and the inner spiritual journey appeals to people from various religious backgrounds, including Christians, Jews, Buddhists, and Hindus, as well as secular readers seeking spiritual insight.
Influence on Sufism and Islamic Mysticism
Rumi’s works are a cornerstone of Sufi literature and practice. His teachings have shaped the spiritual paths of countless Sufi practitioners and continue to inspire Sufi orders around the world, particularly the Mevlevi order, also known as the Whirling Dervishes. The Sema, or whirling dance, which is performed by Mevlevi dervishes, symbolizes the soul’s movement toward union with the Divine, echoing the themes of Rumi’s poetry.
Rumi’s concept of divine love, the unity of existence, and selflessness continues to be central to Sufi thought and practice, making him one of the most influential figures in Islamic mysticism.
Global Literary Impact
Rumi is one of the best-selling poets in the world today, with translations of his works widely available in many languages, including English, French, Spanish, and German. His poetry, particularly the Masnavi and the Divan-e Shams-e Tabrizi, has captivated audiences far beyond the Persian-speaking world. His themes of love, loss, and spiritual longing resonate with readers on a deeply emotional level.
Translations of Rumi’s poetry, such as those by Coleman Barks, have played a major role in popularizing his works in the West. Although some argue that these translations take liberties with the original texts, they have helped to introduce Rumi’s mystical insights to new audiences, making him a household name in global literature.
Inspiration for Art, Music, and Performance
Rumi’s poetry has inspired countless artistic interpretations across different media. His works have been adapted into music, dance, visual art, and theater. For example, musicians from various traditions—classical, Sufi, and contemporary—have set his poems to music. The practice of the Whirling Dervishes, which grew out of Rumi’s spiritual practices, has become a symbol of the union between art and spirituality.
His poetry has also inspired filmmakers, playwrights, and visual artists who seek to express the spiritual depth and beauty of his writings. The metaphorical richness of his verses provides fertile ground for artistic exploration.
Philosophy of Love and Unity
Rumi’s emphasis on love as the ultimate force in the universe has resonated strongly with modern audiences. His teachings offer a counterpoint to the materialism and fragmentation of contemporary life by encouraging a focus on inner transformation and spiritual growth. His concept of Wahdat al-Wujud (the Unity of Being) emphasizes the interconnectedness of all things, a message that aligns with modern ideas of global unity and environmental consciousness.
In a world marked by division and conflict, Rumi’s vision of unity, inclusivity, and love offers a healing and hopeful perspective. His philosophy speaks to the human need for connection—both with others and with the Divine.
Bridging East and West
Rumi serves as a cultural and spiritual bridge between East and West. His works have introduced many in the West to the spiritual depth of Islamic mysticism and Persian culture, fostering greater understanding and appreciation across cultural divides. At a time when there is often misunderstanding between the Islamic world and the West, Rumi’s teachings offer a common ground where people of different backgrounds can find inspiration.
Rumi’s ideas of love, tolerance, and the inner journey resonate deeply with contemporary values of inclusivity and self-discovery, making him an important figure in interfaith dialogue.
Psychological and Therapeutic Insights
Rumi’s poetry also resonates with modern psychological and therapeutic approaches. His teachings about overcoming the ego, embracing suffering as part of spiritual growth, and finding inner peace align with many contemporary ideas in psychology and self-help. His reflections on love, loss, and transformation offer comfort to people facing personal challenges, and his emphasis on selflessness and surrender provides a path for those seeking deeper meaning in life.
Many therapists and spiritual counselors draw upon Rumi’s wisdom to guide individuals in their personal development, healing, and emotional well-being.
Symbol of Spiritual Ecstasy and Joy
Rumi’s portrayal of spiritual ecstasy, expressed through metaphors of music, dance, and the divine embrace, continues to inspire people in their spiritual practices. His joyful approach to the divine relationship—filled with rapture, surrender, and transcendence—has made him an icon of spiritual joy and mysticism.
Rumi’s legacy today is vast and multifaceted. He is celebrated as one of the greatest poets and spiritual teachers in history, whose works continue to inspire love, compassion, and the search for the divine. His philosophy of unity, inclusiveness, and transcendent love offers a timeless message that resonates across cultures, making Rumi not just a historical figure but a living presence in the spiritual and literary life of the world today.
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