Abstract



The narrative of “a Sheikh’s non-lamentation over the death of his children” in the Third Book of the Masnavi, authored by Jalal al-Din Rumi, stands as one of the most luminous examples of the synergy between mystical teachings and rhetorical devices within Rumi’s intellectual universe. This study, employing a descriptive-analytical methodology, endeavors to explore the genesis and manifestation of the “station of Rida (Divine Contentment)” and submission to Divine Will within this narrative. The primary research question revolves around elucidating the function of literary devices, particularly “allegory” and “poetic etiology” (Husn-i Ta’lil), in transforming human perception of death and in extinguishing the fire of jaza’ (lamentation) and restlessness. The findings indicate that Rumi, by recourse to the allegorical structure, purges death of its terrifying aspect, portraying it as the act of “returning a trust to the owner.” Furthermore, through the application of mystical poetic etiology, the source of the Sheikh’s tranquility and his abandonment of wailing and mourning is revealed not to stem from the dominance of Divine Love over human affections. Consequently, the narrative transcends the level of a mere emotional event, evolving into a clear testament to the steadfastness of the seeker’s soul in the realms of submission and contentment.



Keywords: Jalal al-Din Rumi, Masnavi, Station of Rida, Submission and Contentment, Jaza’, Allegory, Poetic Etiology.