The Titans of Civilization: The People Who Shaped the World - Sykalo Eugen 2023

Rumi

Rumi, also known as Jalāl al-Dīn Muhammad Rūmī, was a 13th-century Persian poet, jurist, Islamic scholar, theologian, and mystic. He is renowned for his profound poetry that explores themes of love, spirituality, and the union with the divine. Rumi's works have had a lasting impact on literature, philosophy, and spirituality, and he is considered one of the most influential poets in the world. Here are the key facts about Rumi:

Early Life and Background:
- Rumi was born in Balkh, in present-day Afghanistan, on September 30, 1207. His family later moved to Konya, Turkey, which became his lifelong home.
- He belonged to a family of scholars and religious leaders, and he received a comprehensive education in various disciplines.

Meeting with Shams Tabrizi:
- One of the most significant events in Rumi's life was his encounter with the wandering dervish and mystic, Shams Tabrizi.
- Shams became Rumi's spiritual guide and close companion, igniting a deep spiritual transformation in Rumi's life and inspiring his poetic outpourings.

Mystical Awakening and Poetry:
- Rumi's encounters with Shams led him to embrace Sufism, a mystical branch of Islam that emphasizes direct experience of the divine and the pursuit of spiritual union with God.
- Rumi's poetry, written in Persian, expressed his deep love for God, his longing for union with the divine, and his exploration of the human soul's journey toward spiritual realization.

Mathnawi and Divan-e Shams-e Tabrizi:
- Rumi's most famous works include the "Mathnawi" and the "Divan-e Shams-e Tabrizi."
- The "Mathnawi" is a collection of stories, parables, and poetry that delves into themes of divine love, spiritual awakening, and the search for truth.
- The "Divan-e Shams-e Tabrizi" contains poems dedicated to Rumi's spiritual mentor, Shams Tabrizi. It showcases Rumi's intense emotional and spiritual experiences.

Union with the Divine:
- Rumi's poetry often employs metaphors of love, longing, and the union between the lover (the individual) and the Beloved (God).
- His verses emphasize the idea that through the path of love and surrender, individuals can transcend the limitations of the material world and experience a profound connection with the divine source.

Legacy and Influence:
- Rumi's poetry transcends religious and cultural boundaries. His themes of love, unity, and spiritual awakening resonate with people of various faiths and backgrounds.
- He founded the Mevlevi Order, also known as the Whirling Dervishes, whose ecstatic dances (Sama) are a symbolic expression of the soul's journey toward divine union.

Global Impact:
- Rumi's poetry has been translated into numerous languages and continues to be celebrated worldwide.
- His teachings have inspired countless individuals to explore the depths of spirituality, seek inner transformation, and foster a deeper connection with the divine.

Death and Commemoration:
- Rumi passed away on December 17, 1273. His death anniversary, known as "Rumi's Urs," is celebrated by admirers as a time of spiritual reflection and remembrance.

Rumi's timeless poetry and spiritual insights continue to inspire people to explore the depths of their own spirituality, find meaning in their lives, and connect with the profound mysteries of the universe.