The Secret of Abandoning the Self and Reaching Divine Existence
In the works of Mevlânâ Celaleddin Rûmî, love is not merely an emotion but a path for humans to transcend themselves and reach divine existence. The person progressing on this path must break free from worldly attachments and purify themselves of their ego; this is a metaphorical expression of shedding the garment of the self. The dervish who acts with deep surrender becomes acquainted with the secrets of the universe and attracts the ear of fate, establishing contact with it. This is an important stage in the process of purifying oneself from the nafs-i emmared (the commanding self) and being molded by divine love; because attaining spiritual maturity requires overcoming worldly desires.
Burning with a Sweetness: The Transformative Power of Love
In Mevlânâ, love also brings with it a desire to burn; just as a piece of sugar shows excitement when it comes into contact with fire. This “burning” means the melting and annihilation of the self; it is as if the person surrenders so completely that they become like a wick. Love allows humans to transcend their limits, think outside the norm, and act differently. In this process, the hesitations brought about by custom disappear, and even wine seems to have its sins forgiven; because the exuberance of love overcomes worldly laws.
Liberation from Spiritual Apathy: Rumi’s Enthusiastic Call
Mevlânâ’s teaching is a storm of enthusiasm and joy against spiritual apathy. He states that if we consider the source of love to be Paradise or the River Kawthar, great goodness and blessing will be attained. However, this exuberance has no limits; it expresses a kind of stubbornness, even to the point of losing oneself in a state of intoxication and shedding one’s own blood. This is an indication of the courage and surrender necessary to overcome obstacles encountered on the spiritual path and open the heart; Mevlânâ invites us to this enthusiasm.