Transcending the Boundaries of the Body with Love
In the works of Mevlana Jalaluddin Rumi, the transient and deceptive nature of the physical world is frequently emphasized. The body is likened to a mount; this mount has constant needs – such as barley and hay – but what truly matters is the soul realm behind the body. This soul realm should transcend the limitations of bodily desires, like the Milky Way obstructing the path of the Samanuğrusu (a celestial bird), and turn towards truth. While the body’s share is worldly, the soul’s share is unique and limitless; therefore, self-sacrifice through love and transcending the ego is a fundamental principle in Mevlana’s teachings.
Shedding Old Armor in Spiritual Development
Mevlana compares the process of spiritual maturation to an old and worn cloak. Although this cloak may be recognized and respected by everyone over time, it now hinders the soul’s progress. The person who wants to advance on the path of spirituality must abandon this old armor, that is, question past habits, beliefs, and assumptions. Shaping the soul is like replacing the old cloak with a new one; this transformation reveals the soul’s light, enabling it to reach higher levels. However, this process of simplification and purification can be as profound as to disturb even the fairies.
Destruction of the Illusion of Existence and Reaching the Light of Unity
In Mevlana’s poetry, the world is depicted as a constant illusion and deception. The illusion of existence – that is, the assumption of existence – vanishes like ashes by a divine light that existed before anything else. This destruction leads to the shining of the light of unity along with the annihilation of the ego; all concepts of “I” and “we” disappear, increasing proximity to God (Allah). Even deep feelings such as patriotism lose their meaning in the face of this divine love, and a person sheds themselves from their own self and reaches truth; this forms the foundation of Mevlana’s philosophy of unity of existence.
Burning with the Wine of Love and Understanding Truth
Mevlana likens love to wine; this wine burns hearts and purifies souls. Like a saki (cupbearer) who takes a goblet instead of a manuscript, the person seeking truth must taste the fire of divine love beyond worldly knowledge and rules. Burning with this fire of love transcends bodily limitations and leads one into the depths of truth. The intelligent person focuses on inner richness rather than outward appearances; just as a person cleansed of their bile is inclined towards sweet fruits, spiritual maturation also occurs by purifying the heart.