I’m participating in the #AtoZ April Blogging Challenge 2025 and this will be my third year of joining the vibrant community that loves this one-of-a-kind creative challenge.
This year, my theme is—BOOKS THAT CHANGED MY LIFE—which means they are not just my favourite books, but they’ve also left a deep and lasting impact on me and continue to do so until this day. If you are stopping by this blog for the first time, please do leave your blog link, I’ll be happy to visit yours too. 🙂
The Essential Rumi:
Translated by Coleman Barks
This one is a beautiful collection of the ecstatic, spiritual poetry of the thirteenth-century Sufi Mystic Rumi who was more concerned with the mystical spirit of all things. The book takes one along on a journey of mysticism, love and self-discovery.
Since I haven’t read the original Persian work, I’d be unable to tell if it loses in translation, which is one of the critiques about the translations, but, as a reader, I found the poems to be as good as the very best in English. The artistry and tapestry of language is unparalleled. It is impossible not to be moved by Rumi’s words. He has a universal appeal that is timeless!
Interestingly, I was introduced to Rumi years ago but I came to read his works much later in life. While it is true that some of the poems may be a little dense and difficult to understand, I do think that most of his poetry is a nourishment to the soul—especially for the fact that they bring a certain sense of peace, understanding and clarity to the reader, that makes one think deeply about the nature of wisdom, the spirit, the relationship of the human to the divine and the humans to one another.
As I said earlier, Rumi’s poetry is more than just poetry—it’s a Sufi teacher, pointing beyond itself to the Infinite—where every verse conveys a hidden truth, leaving the reader mystified and enlightened. His words are a guiding light, leading us up the path to spiritually transform and awaken us.
I absolutely love reading this exquisite collection of Rumi’s poetry every now and then. I’d usually start from any random page too at times and there’s usually some advice or wise thought that I’d glean from there that would apply to my present situation. I am not sure if that’s because of the way I interpret it, but it seems to work that way for me.It comforts my soul and brings me peace and light.
There is a certain transcendental quality to his verses that is so beautiful that it is impossible not to admire his works. If you love poetry, you’ll definitely love this collection of gems.
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I just finished reading another book comprising Rumi’s poetry, titled ‘Rumi’s Little Book of Life’. I have been fascinated by Rumi’s poems for long time because of the transcendental quality of his verses. While reading his verses, I find myself grow a strong connection with my unforeseen beloved, and thus, dancing madly in the ecstasy of the divine union.
I’m with on this, Esha – Rumi’s work has been life-changing for me as well. It’s beautiful and sublime. Coleman Barks is considered one of the best translators of his work into English, and I think his respect and reverence are clear.