Rumi: A Philosopher-Poet's Journey Through Time

Balkh - "the mother of cities"

The Tumultuous Era: Historical Context of Rumi's Time

Any journey through the life of Rumi would be incomplete without understanding the turbulent times he lived in. The 13th Century was an epoch of upheaval, marked by colossal changes on the political, social, and religious fronts. Rumi's formative years coincided with one of the most dramatic periods of the Middle Ages. His unique philosophical outlook and literary style were shaped largely by the ongoing tumult around him.

Rumi was born at the height of the Islamic Golden Age. A period characterised by remarkable achievements in fields like art, literature, science, and philosophy, it saw Islamic culture flourish from Spain and Morocco to the edges of the Indian subcontinent. However, the serenity of this Golden Age would be shattered by the Mongol invasions.

In the early 13th century, Balkh, Rumi's birthplace, was threatened by the encroaching hordes of the Mongol Empire. The Mongols, led by Genghis Khan, had rapidly expanded their territories, trampling over multitude territories and cultures. The fear of an imminent invasion was so pronounced that Rumi's family, along with many other scholars and nobles, fled from their homes to seek sanctuary further West.

As Rumi and his family journeyed through the Muslim world, they bore witness to the gaping wounds the Mongol invasions had inflicted upon their land. Entire cities were razed, populations massacred, and a once thriving culture and heritage seemed on the brink of annihilation. This violence and destruction that Rumi saw during his early life undoubtedly shaped his vision of love, peace, and unity which resonates so profoundly in his work.

During Rumi's lifetime, Konya, where the family eventually settled, was under the rule of the Seljuk Empire, providing a safe haven for scholars and artists amidst the sprawling chaos. However, even there, the impact of the Mongol invasions was evident. The political instability led to a social and religious transformation that fostered a mystical outlook towards religion, particularly Islam. Sufism gained prominence as it offered a spiritual alternative to the formalistic and rigid practices of religion.

Rumi lived amidst these tumultuous times, witnessing firsthand the horror of senseless violence, the beauty of human resilience, and the immense capacity of the human spirit for love and compassion. These experiences profoundly influenced his philosophical and spiritual outlook, which he voiced in his mesmerising verses and teachings.

In essence, Rumi's era was a time of significant historical developments that deeply affected the social fabric of the Muslim world. It was this backdrop of societal strife, political upheaval, and spiritual transformation that played such a paramount role in moulding the legacy of Rumi as we know it today. Amidst the ruins of a society in chaos, his enduring wisdom offers a sanctuary where love reigns supreme, echoing his famous words, "The wound is the place where the Light enters you". 

Konya, Turkey today