Rumi

Rumi was a Persian poet, scholar, and Sufi mystic. He was born in Balkh, in present-day Afghanistan, in 1207. He wrote beautiful poems about love, spirituality, and the meaning of life. His poetry is among the most widely read in the world.

Early Life

Rumi's family fled from Mongol invasions when he was young. They eventually settled in Konya, in present-day Turkey. He became a respected scholar and teacher. A meeting with a wandering mystic named Shams changed his life forever and inspired his poetry.

Big Achievements

Rumi wrote thousands of poems collected in works like the Masnavi and the Divan. His poetry explores love, loss, and the search for meaning. He founded the Mevlevi Order, whose followers are known as whirling dervishes. His poems have been translated into many languages and are read worldwide.

Fun Facts

• Rumi is one of the best-selling poets in the United States today, over 800 years after his death.
• His followers are called whirling dervishes because they spin in circles as a form of prayer.
• He wrote most of his poetry in Persian.

Did You Know?

Rumi's poetry has been translated into dozens of languages and is loved by people of all backgrounds. He wrote, 'Let the beauty of what you love be what you do.' His words continue to inspire millions of people around the world.