The perception of divine existence according to Jalaluddin Rumi

Abstract

Jalal al-Din Rumi was not one of the mystics who focused extensively on the concept of divine existence. This issue later had a clear impact on his Sufi framework and the Sufi path he established, known as the Mevlevi Order. Among these influences is the significant difference among researchers regarding Rumi’s understanding of divine existence. Some, like researcher Abu al-Fadl al-Qunawi, classify Rumi as a proponent of the doctrine of Unity of Being, while others, including Dr. Abu Bakr al-Sabahi, interpret him as advocating a belief in union alongside Unity of Being. After researching and studying this issue, it became evident that Rumi’s conception of God was shaped by his profound interest in matters related to the human soul and its spiritual ranks. Consequently, Rumi formulated his understanding of God in a way that aligns with his view of the human soul and its spiritual gradations. However, Rumi’s formulation of the divine existence is based on distorted beliefs and false philosophies that contradict the correct monotheism upheld by the Ahl al-Sunnah wa al-Jama'ah. To clarify the doctrinal deviations acknowledged by Jalal al-Din Rumi in his writings, this will be detailed by explaining the corruption of his beliefs concerning the Oneness of Lordship, the Oneness of Divinity, and the Oneness of Names and Attributes.