Commentary · Religion

Rumi and Emerson: A Bridge Between the West and the Muslim World

The writings of Jalalud’din Rumi, the 13th century Sufi Muslim philosopher from modern-day Afghanistan, and the works of Ralph Waldo Emerson, the 19th century Christian transcendentalist from Boston, Massachusetts, are filled with lessons that enrich every human soul. Rumi’s and Emerson’s similar thoughts on religious tolerance, love, and care for the soul can help bridge…… Continue reading Rumi and Emerson: A Bridge Between the West and the Muslim World

Quoted

“I am part or particle of God.” – R.W. Emerson

Poems

“Springtime of lovers”

Religion

Where Do You Search When You’re Searching for Him?

“I searched for God among the Christians and on the Cross and therein I found Him not. I went into the ancient temples of idolatry; no trace of Him was there. I entered the mountain cave of Hira and then went as far as Qandhar but God I found not. With set purpose I fared…… Continue reading Where Do You Search When You’re Searching for Him?

Film-work

Short video of reading “God or Allah”

Poems

Allah or God, it Doesn’t Matter to Me

I’m a Catholic but I think Islam is beautiful Some think I’m interested in converting No, I’m not it just makes me think of the one above Whether it’s called Allah or God it doesn’t matter I think of him I think of heaven A place of no worries A place of peace A place…… Continue reading Allah or God, it Doesn’t Matter to Me

Poems

Poem: Out of plight

After Reynold A. Nicholson * Jesus passed by three men. Their bodies were lean and their faces pale. He asked them, ‘What has brought you to this plight?’ They answered, ‘Fear of the Fire’. * Jesus said, ‘You fear a thing created, and it behoves God that he should save those who fear’. * Jesus left them…… Continue reading Poem: Out of plight

Creative writing

Religion: Rumi – from scholar to saint

Rumi, the great Sufi poet, was actually a scholar of sharia law (Islamic law).  His responsibilities included making legal rulings and giving unapologetic lectures on how to resolve conflicts. One day, a man in rags approached Rumi and changed everything.  The following exchange, according to legend, occurred: Pointing to Rumi’s legal books, the man in rags…… Continue reading Religion: Rumi – from scholar to saint

Religion

This is Why People Love Sufism

Sufis are very inclusive and open-minded.  They believe that God is everywhere.  They quote Qur’anic passages like, ‘Wherever you turn, there is the face of God’ (2: 115).  If God is everywhere, then God can be seen in all religions too.  A Sufi would not only be comfortable praying at a church or synagogue or…… Continue reading This is Why People Love Sufism

Poems · Religion

The Source of Rumi’s Inspiration

Rumi’s inspiration progresses from the inner to the outer, from spiritual impulse to verbal expression.  Thus, the more we are able to penetrate the outer form of his words, the closer we may come to catching a glimpse of the Source from which they came.  This requires a considerable mental leap.  Rumi is aware of…… Continue reading The Source of Rumi’s Inspiration