Quatrain 139 from Rubaiyat of Rumi

By hamed @hamed | 40 1

آن عشق مجرد سوی صحرا می‌تاخت
دیدش دل من ز کر و فرش بشناخت


با خود می‌گفت چون ز صورت برهم
با صورت عشق عشقها خواهم باخت


Description:

English Translation of the Quatrain

That abstract love was galloping towards the desert.
My heart recognized it from its dust and carpets.

It said to itself, 'Since I've broken free from form,'
I'll lose many loves by loving with form.

Analysis of the Quatrains

Abstract Love: This refers to a pure, unconditioned love that is not tied to physical forms or earthly attachments.
The Heart's Recognition: The poet's heart, being spiritually attuned, recognizes this abstract love even in its simplest manifestations.
Breaking Free from Form: The abstract love has transcended physical limitations and is free to explore a higher realm.
The Loss of Earthly Loves: By pursuing this higher form of love, the poet recognizes that they may lose the attachments and loves associated with the material world.


hamed
@hamed Dec. 16, 2024, 4:48 p.m.

Deeper Meanings

This quatrain, like much of Rumi's poetry, can be interpreted on multiple levels:

Sufi Mysticism: The quatrain reflects the Sufi concept of ma'rifat, or divine knowledge, and the journey towards union with the divine.
The Nature of Love: The poet explores the difference between earthly love, which is often conditional and tied to form, and divine love, which is unconditional and infinite.
Spiritual Awakening: The image of the abstract love galloping towards the desert can symbolize the spiritual awakening and the journey towards enlightenment.