Rumi and Sultan Bahu’s Concept of Faqr : A Comparative Study

رومی اور سلطان باہو کا تصور فقر: تقابلی مطالعہ

Abstract

The main purpose of the present study is to shed light on the notion of Faqr according to both Sufis, Jalaludin Rumi and Sultan Bahu. Faqr, one of the core ingredients of mysticism, according to Sufis, stands on the notion and plinth of cleansing one’s soul for the sake of Allah Almighty. The achievement of Faqr is the pedestal for selflessness and denial of worldliness. Man was created in the image of God and his desire to propitiate God is to adopt His attributes, and selflessness is one of them. Man can achieve selflessness through the denial of worldly power, luxury, wealth, glory, and the likes. Sufis have quoted a hadith from the Prophet, Hazrat Muhammad (PBUH) in their books: “Faqr is my pride”. Sufis all around the globe share similar traits and fame for their unconditional endeavors to achieve Faqr through mysticism. In this regard, both Jalaluddin Rumi and Sultan Bahu hold the highest rank in mysticism and they are considered to be the most influential and popular Sufis of their time. These Sufis have preached Faqr through their poetry and prose and have been quite successful in enlightening the world through the light of mysticism and Sufism. The aim of this research is to sheds light on Faqr in the light of the thoughts of both the sufis.