The Traces of a Sovereign in the Ocean of Existence
In the works of Mevlânâ Celaleddin-i Rûmî, we encounter the story of a sovereign journeying through the depths of the ocean of existence. This sovereign is depicted as a manifestation that affects the stars in the sky, represents the dominion of the Throne (Arsh), and illuminates all creation. The presence of Shams-i Tabrizi is the brightest example of this manifestation; he is so powerful that even seven seas are merely a layer before him. These metaphors express humanity’s powerlessness in the face of the universe’s infinity and the greatness of divine power, while also demonstrating how high the source of love and grace is—an invitation to guide people towards this sublime existence.
The Collapse of the Heart and Love’s Transformative Power
In Mevlana’s poetry, the heart is depicted as a treasure lost in a gambling den; it is a space that must be cleansed of falsehoods and illusions. This collapse is also the beginning of a transformation. Under the influence of love, withered trees rise, faces shine, and hearts are illuminated. Souls wailing like reeds under the caress of Shams-i Tabrizi see grief replaced by exuberance. This demonstrates that even the pains of love possess a transformative power, cleansing the heart and preparing it for divine love—a Sufi purification process.
The Heart’s Circle in the Quest for Union with God
In Mevlana’s teachings, reaching God is possible only through transforming the heart. This transformation is depicted as a circle revolving around Shamsu Tabrizi; each revolution purifies the heart further and kneads it with divine love. The heart’s circle represents detaching from worldly ties, disciplining the ego, and turning towards Truth (Hakk). In this quest, the meeting of the eye and the heart appears as a metaphor for seeing truth—a symbol of true love and spiritual serenity; this forms the essence of the Sufi journey.