The Concept of God in the poetry of Maulana Jalaluddin Rumi

Abstract

This paper delves into Jalal ad-Din Rumi’s mystical conception of God as attested in his poetry. Through an in-depth examination of selected verses, the study reveals how Rumi portrays all human thought and imagination as transient and ephemeral—mere shadows that ultimately give way to the everlasting divine essence. The verses illustrate Rumi’s assertion that the fleeting constructs of the mind are subordinate to an immutable, omnipresent God. Using a rich tapestry of metaphor and allegory, Rumi challenges the reader to look beyond the superficial manifestations of the physical world and to seek the hidden, inner truth where the soul and the divine intersect.

The analysis further demonstrates that Rumi’s poetic imagery encompasses a complex interplay between the visible and the invisible, the tangible body and the concealed spirit. His depictions of the human form as both a mere shell and a vessel for a deeper metaphysical presence underscore the Sufi idea of annihilation (fana) of the self in order to achieve union with the Creator. Moreover, the discussion touches on Rumi’s critique of superficial intellectualism, urging a shift from mere cognitive understanding to an experiential, heart-led comprehension of the divine.

Ultimately, the paper posits that Rumi’s verses are a call to transcend worldly limitations and awaken to a transformative spirituality. By emphasizing that every transient thought is a stepping stone to the realization of God’s eternal presence, Rumi invites the reader to embark on a journey of self-discovery and spiritual reawakening—a journey where the dissolution of the self-paves the way for the emergence of a new, more profound consciousness.