The Quest for Annihilation and Integration with Divine Love
This gazel section selected from Mevlânâ Celaleddin Rûmî’s Divan-ı Kebir strikingly expresses how love deeply affects the human soul and can distance an individual from their own self. The poet, saying ‘My friends, my friends, take hold of me from the scent; I am intoxicated, I don’t know the path of that beautiful beloved,’ brings to life a figure of a lover who loses his way due to the influence of love, striving to reach divine love. This signifies not only a physical loss but also a desire to embark on a journey towards truth by transcending the boundaries of self; being intoxicated with love can be interpreted as the first step in breaking free from worldly thoughts and reaching a higher level of consciousness.
From Joy to Pain: Spiritual Purification Through the Metaphor of Wine
The metaphor of wine in the gazel is a symbolic element frequently used in Sufi thought. Here, wine represents purification from worldly pleasures and attaining spiritual ecstasy. The poet’s request ‘Saki, offer me wine, intoxicate me; let no thought remain,’ expresses the desire to overcome bodily desires and integrate with divine love. The acceptability of even a turbid wine mixed with troubles if pure wine is not found, teaches perseverance in the face of difficulties and obstacles in the spiritual journey; the important thing is not to abandon the quest.
Integration with the Earth and Service to Humanity
Mevlânâ’s expressions ‘My friends, my friends, entrust me to his neighborhood; bury me in that earth; that earth is kohl, a vision for the eye,’ emphasizes the connection between humans and nature and the universe. The earth, here, is not only a physical entity but also the source of divine love and a symbol of rebirth. Surrendering to this earth expresses the desire to transcend the boundaries of self and serve humanity; for according to Mevlânâ, true love is sacrificing oneself and being beneficial to others. Being instrumental in awakening the goodness that lies within everyone, opening their eyes and showing them the right path, is the greatest grace.