The Rubáiyát of Omar Khayyám

The text delves into the profound evolution and significance of Jeláleddín Rúmí, a preeminent Persian mystical poet, whose works have transcended cultural and temporal boundaries to influence both Eastern and Western literary traditions. Recognized as the greatest mystical poet of any age, Jeláleddín's poetry is celebrated for its spiritual depth, lyrical beauty, and philosophical insight. His works, particularly the "Mesnevi" and his lyrical "Divan," are revered as masterpieces that explore themes of divine love, unity, and the transcendence of the soul. The text highlights the admiration of Western scholars, such as Hegel, who acknowledged Jeláleddín's alignment with speculative thought, and Rückert, who introduced the Persian ghazel form to European literature. The ghazel, a lyrical form characterized by its repeating rhyme scheme and thematic focus on love and spirituality, is central to understanding Jeláleddín's poetic style. The text also contrasts Jeláleddín's spiritual and uplifting themes with the more hedonistic and skeptical tones of Omar Khayyám, as popularized by Fitzgerald's translation. Through this exploration, the text underscores Jeláleddín's enduring legacy as a poet who harmonized the spiritual and the aesthetic, offering a transformation of divine love that continues to resonate with readers worldwide.