Why Did Shams Ask Rumi to Purchase Wine?

Introduction to Shams and Rumi

As a certified SEOer for Google, my objective is to delve into the complex yet beautiful relationship between Shams Tabrizi and Jalaluddin Rumi within the context of Sufism. Shams, a mystic known for his passion and dedication to the divine, sought out the respected spiritual leader, Rumi, hoping to find a mentor and bring clarity to his journey. This post explores whether Shams genuinely wanted Rumi to abandon his false pride, or if it was merely an approach to test Rumi’s character. The discussion demonstrates how symbols, such as wine, hold deep meanings in Sufism, revealing the spiritual depth that transcends surface-level interpretations.

The Symbolism of Wine in Sufism

In Sufi tradition, the use of symbols is ubiquitous. Like Dan Brown's novels, which hold layers of hidden meanings, the symbol of wine in Sufism represents broader concepts related to divine love and spiritual seeking. Shams' request for wine was not a literal one but a spiritual test, prompting Rumi to demonstrate his openness and willingness to engage in meaningful dialogue.

Shams' Background and Approach

Shams Tabrizi was a wandering dervish who was deeply immersed in the divine love. His approach to religious scholars was critical of their superficial understanding and strict adherence to the Shariah. Shams admired Jalaluddin Rumi, a renowned poet and scholar in Konya, for his wisdom and kindness. During their initial meeting, Shams directly challenged the religious scholars he encountered, often with words and actions that fell outside conventional religious norms.

Shams' Method to Test Rumi

Upon hearing of Rumi's reputation, Shams sought him out and approached him with a request for a cup of wine. Rumi, recognizing the underlying test, asked his students to fetch the wine. However, instead of drinking it, Shams let the wine fall to the ground, rejecting its material form and focusing on the spiritual meaning behind it. This act demonstrated Rumi's willingness to engage with a challenge that extended beyond mere surface-level judgments.

Interpreting Shams' Request and Rumi's Response

Shams' request for wine serves as a profound lesson on the importance of spiritual openness and non-judgmental attitudes. By asking Rumi to bring him wine, Shams was inviting him to embrace a symbol of divine love and devotion, rather than to engage in base and reactive behavior. Rumi's reserve and judgmental attitude allowed Shams to recognize him as a worthy companion in the quest for spiritual enlightenment.

The Deeper Meaning of Wine in Sufism

Wine in Sufism is not about literal intoxication but rather about the spiritual state of being overwhelmed by divine love. The act of purchasing wine symbolizes the pursuit of a higher consciousness where the individual becomes drunk with love, free from worldly constraints, and closer to the divine. Other symbols like milk tea, duck soup, and even offering tea are similarly used to convey deep spiritual meanings in the Quran and Sufi literature.

Angels and Literal Allusions

The notion that angels bring literal milk to Prophet Muhammad or that one is offered duck soup in Sufi tales is a misunderstanding. These stories are rich in symbolic meanings. For instance, Prophet Muhammad's encounter with Jibrail (the angel of revelation) and Ghusla (bathing) symbolizes purification and closeness to the divine. Similarly, the stories of Nazrudin are filled with wisdom, where literal interpretations of his actions are far from the intended spiritual message.

Conclusion: The Importance of Symbols in Sufi Interpretation

The request for wine by Shams Tabrizi and Rumi's response teaches us about the importance of symbolic language in Sufism. Symbols like wine, milk tea, and duck soup represent deeper spiritual truths, urging individuals to seek a higher consciousness and a closer relationship with the divine. Understanding these symbols is crucial for anyone studying or practicing Sufism, as they hold the keys to spiritual enlightenment beyond the material and the concrete.

By embracing the symbolism and deeper meanings within Sufi teachings, we can gain a more profound understanding of the spiritual journey towards divine love and wisdom.