Ascension from the Transient World to Divine Existence
The poems of Mevlana Celaleddin-i Rumi are a striking reflection of humanity’s desire to rise above fleeting worldly pleasures and ascend into the realm of truth. The poet’s lyrical narration depicts the rituals of daily life, the exuberance experienced in taverns, and the passion of love; while simultaneously pointing to the transience of these earthly bonds and the need for humans to reach a higher level of consciousness. Actions such as grasping, unraveling, and braiding the end of hair symbolize the self’s constant state of transformation, a symbolic expression of existential quest. In this quest, even the exuberance of the tavern is presented as temporary solace, with the ultimate goal being integration with divine love.
The Self-Sacrifice of Love and the Depth of Elest Existence
The love in Rumi’s poetry is not merely a worldly passion but also a manifestation of the deep connection between God and the servant. This intense feeling, described as the affliction of love, allows humans to transcend ego boundaries and merge with the universe. The ‘Elest’ supplication carries an important message about the origin of existence; it expresses humanity’s allegiance and unity with the Divine in the divine realm. The poet’s profound reflections emphasize the importance of turning away from worldly concerns and towards truth, demonstrating that reaching existence through love is possible.
Between Two Planes of Existence: The Balance of the Self
Rumi addresses both the worldly and the divine in his poetry, bringing to light the complexity of human selfhood. The contrast between the above, a tranquil and abundant realm like a garden, and the below, a dark and troubled world cut off from treasures, expresses humanity’s movement back and forth between these two different dimensions of existence. The poet’s ‘neither from above nor from below’ symbolizes the effort to find balance between these two poles – fulfilling worldly responsibilities while also yearning for integration with divine love. Achieving this state of balance is an important virtue in Rumi’s teachings.