'Rumi: 750 Years of Absence... Eight Centuries of Presence' Exhibition Highlights Rumi’s Enduring Legacy
SHARJAH, United Arab Emirates, February 1, 2025 (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) - The 'Rumi: 750 Years of Absence... Eight Centuries of Presence' exhibition, currently hosted at the House of Wisdom in Sharjah until 14th February, offers an immersive exploration of Jalal al-Din Rumi’s timeless influence on cultural heritage and human intellectual history.
A Journey Through Rumi’s Spiritual and Literary Legacy
Under the theme An Everlasting Heritage and an Eternal Impact, the exhibition showcases Rumi’s profound reflections on divine love, offering visitors a glimpse into his spiritual philosophy through rare manuscripts, artefacts, and artistic representations.
Rare Manuscripts and Artifacts
Among the exhibition’s prized displays is the Sancak Quran (Banner Quran), an Ottoman-era manuscript dating back to the 10th century AH. This miniature Quran, only four centimetres in diameter, was historically carried by Ottoman soldiers atop their spears for divine protection in battle.
Another significant exhibit is the Divan-e Sultan Walad, a collection of poetry by Rumi’s son, Sultan Walad, written in 768 AH (1390 AD). This manuscript, preserved at the Mevlâna Museum, highlights themes of spiritual devotion and divine love, central to Rumi’s teachings.
Also featured is Rumi’s Khirqa (Sufi Robe), a blue garment from the Seljuk era. Despite minor restoration, the robe remains remarkably preserved, symbolizing Rumi’s personal spiritual journey.
The Dervishes’ Spiritual Practices
The exhibition also presents the Dervishes’ Cabinet, which includes three unique artefacts reflecting the ascetic lifestyle and practices of the whirling dervishes:
A 7th century AH (13th century CE) wooden Rahle (bookstand) adorned with Rumi motifs.
A Keshkul (Dervish Begging Bowl), traditionally used for collecting alms and food, embodying the dervishes' reliance on charity.
A collection of musical instruments, central to Sama (whirling ceremonies) and Sufi gatherings, including:
A Rebab (stringed instrument with a coconut shell body and bone-inlaid handle).
A Kiz Ney (Sufi Flute), symbolizing the soul’s longing for the divine.
A Kudum (Dervish Drum), covered in red leather, originating from the Konya Mevlevi Dervish Lodge.
Art Inspired by Rumi’s Teachings
One of the exhibition’s highlights is The Sufi, a bronze sculpture by renowned artist Khaled Zaki. Part of the Barjeel Art Foundation’s collection, the artwork captures the graceful, meditative motion of the whirling dervishes, reflecting the rhythm of Sama, a practice deeply linked to Rumi’s philosophy.
Rumi’s Universal Influence
Rumi’s poetry transcends time and language, having been translated into numerous dialects and embraced by cultures worldwide. His writings on divine love, unity, and truth continue to inspire generations, underscoring the transformative power of love and harmony in uniting humanity. More than just poetry, Rumi’s legacy is a profound reminder of the spiritual pursuit of wisdom, peace, and enlightenment.
The 'Rumi: 750 Years of Absence... Eight Centuries of Presence' exhibition in Sharjah is a must-visit for those seeking a deeper understanding of one of history’s most celebrated poets and mystics.