Was Rumi a Prophet of Islam? Unveiling the Truth Behind a Misunderstanding

Rumi is often misunderstood as a prophet in Islam. However, he was none of these. This renowned poet, jurist, theologian, and Sufi mystic made significant contributions to Islamic culture and spirituality, but his role was entirely different from that of a prophet.

Rumi's Background and Contributions

Rumi was born in 1207 in Balkh, present-day Afghanistan, and later settled in Konya, Anatolia, in present-day Turkey. During his lifetime, he wrote extensively, creating works that have deeply influenced Islamic tradition and culture.

Literary Works

Among Rumi's most famous works are his poetry and prose writings, known for their spiritual content that resonates with the universal language of the human soul. His writings were recorded, collected, and compiled during his lifetime and after his death by his son, his friends, and his students, particularly his much-loved disciple Husameddin Chelebi.

Mathnawi

Shortly after his spiritual friend Shams appeared in his life, Rumi began his masterpiece, The Masnawi. This work comprises twenty-five thousand verses and is written in couplets, collected into six large volumes. Through linked stories, Rumi expresses his burning love, refined spirit, fine intelligence, and mysticism, making the Mathnawi a profound and timeless piece of literature.

Divan-i Kebir

Also known as Divan-i Shems-i Tebriz, this monumental collection of poems is composed of over forty thousand couplets. Rumi used the name of his friend Shams of Tebriz as a pseudonym, giving it a unique and reverent quality. This work is a masterpiece of divine lyricism and a testament to Rumi's poetic genius.

Fihi Ma Fihi

Fiji ma Fihi, translated as "It Is What It Is," is written in prose and is a collection of discourses and spiritual discussions given at gatherings with his students. Using stories and examples, the work covers various topics such as the mystical view of life and death, the phases of initiation into the mystical life, the relationship between the master and the initiate, faith, love, conduct, and ethics.

The Role of Prophethood and Islam

It is a fundamental tenet of Islam that prophethood ended with Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). No Muslim can claim prophethood and still be recognized as a follower of Islam. This is further reinforced in the Quran, which explicitly states:

O people! Muhammad has no sons among you, but verily he is the Apostle of God and the last in the line of Prophets. And God is aware of everything.
(Allah's Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him) Quran, Al-Ahzab 33:40)

Furthermore, the Quran clearly states:

Muhammad is not the father of any of your men, but he is the Messenger of Allah and the Seal of the Prophets: and Allah has full knowledge of all things.
(Quran, Al-Ahzab 33:40)

Conclusion

Rumi was a revered Muslim who contributed significantly to Islamic poetry, theology, and Sufism. His teachings and works continue to inspire people across the globe, but he was not a prophet. Understanding this distinction is crucial for appreciating the true nature of his contributions without any theological misunderstandings.