The Boundaries of the Self and the Journey to Truth
In the thoughts of Mevlana Celaleddin Rumi, the individual’s relationship with their own self is addressed with deep questioning. The expression “I cannot even fit into my own being; can another now fit there?” begins with a person struggling with the nafs-i emmare (carnal self) realizing that they are limited and incomplete. This awareness is the first step in the quest for truth, because true knowledge and love are possible only by reaching a universal reality that lies beyond the self. However, this effort to transcend oneself begins in the darkness and blindness of the mind; one cannot see the truth without recognizing the obstacles within themselves.
Abandoning the Self: A Prerequisite for Brotherhood
Mevlana emphasizes abandoning the nafs-i emmare as a prerequisite for reaching the sincerity of brotherly relationships. With the words, “Since you are running towards the side of brotherhood, first you must turn your face,” he states that one should not ignore their own flaws and weaknesses. In order to understand and support others’ suffering, one must first alleviate their internal distress; otherwise, the fraternal relationship cannot go beyond increasing burdens in hearts. Therefore, Mevlana emphasizes the importance of outward and spiritual purification by likening freedom from pride to getting rid of body odor.
The Poetic Language of Love: The Exuberance of Existence
Mevlana’s poems present love as a quest, a surrender, and an exuberance. Expressions such as “O cupbearer, have mercy; what a beautiful face you have; I am from the earth, where are you?” express longing for God and enthusiasm for servitude. For Mevlana, love is not only an emotional experience but also a way for a person to reveal their creative power, sacrifice themselves, and integrate with universal love. In this journey of love, a surrender that transcends the limits of logic and is filled with excitement through the sema (whirling dervish) cycle is essential; because true love cannot be grasped by reason; it is felt by the heart and lived by the soul.