The Sacrifice of Being and the Ascent of Love
In the poems that gush forth from Jalaluddin Rumi’s Divan-i Kebir, the quest for merging with love by transcending the boundaries of existence is deeply explored. Just as a moth circles around a flame, the effort to reach Truth by passing through the self (nafs-i emmare) is symbolized. During this process, it is emphasized that the ego must be sacrificed and being abandoned; because true joy and happiness are only possible with love. Love, in Rumi’s teaching, represents a transformation; it is a path where an individual transcends their own limitations, integrates with the universe, and is illuminated by divine love.
The Garden of the Heart and Traces of Divine Existence
In Rumi’s poems, the beloved is not merely a human object of affection but also a manifestation of divine existence. The garden of the heart is a place that holds the beauties of this divine existence and nourishes the soul. The heart adorned with the beauty of the beloved is lofty like a cypress tree and eloquent like a saffron flower. Rumi expresses that his love for the beloved makes him willing to be burned by fire; this is an indication of sacrifice to sever worldly ties and reach divine love. This passionate devotion requires the individual to make their entire being non-existent in the beloved.
Sacrifice and Attainment of Truth on the Journey
Rumi’s teaching encourages turning away from worldly pleasures and towards truth. Joys such as drinking wine and listening to music gain meaning in the shadow of divine love and bring solace to the soul. However, these joys are only possible when the self is completely annihilated and being merges with the secret. The person described by Rumi, whose “I” has vanished and who focuses solely on the existence of the Beloved, is a concrete example of true surrender and attaining divine love. On this journey, what is superior to even the crown of kingship is the fervor and desire for the beloved; this desire almost like a ring encircles the soul and draws it towards truth.