Universal Messages of Peace: The Enduring Legacy of Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Balkhi (widely known as Rumi or Mawlana) and Hakim Abul-Qasim Ferdowsi in Global Discourse

Document Type : Original Research Paper

Authors

1 Faculty of Law and Political Science at the University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran

2 Department of South, East Asia and Oceanian Studies; Faculty of World Studies, University of Tehran,Iran

Abstract
This article explores the universal messages of peace articulated in the works of two seminal Persian poets, Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Balkhi (commonly known as Mawlana or Rumi) and Hakim Abul-Qasim Ferdowsi, highlighting their significant contributions to global discourse on peace. Through a thematic analysis, the study contrasts Rumi's focus on inner peace and self-awareness with Ferdowsi's emphasis on social justice and the moral responsibilities of leadership. Rumi's mystical poetry advocates for personal reconciliation as a prerequisite for achieving harmony with the universe, emphasizing love and understanding as essential pathways to peace. Conversely, Ferdowsi's epic, the Shahnameh, presents peace within the context of collective identity, where just governance and moral integrity are vital for societal harmony. Both poets' messages resonate across cultures, emphasizing unity, empathy, and the enduring relevance of their teachings in contemporary conflict resolution efforts. This research underscores how Rumi and Ferdowsi's reflections on peace offer vital insights for fostering dialogue, tolerance, and coexistence in a world increasingly marked by divisions. Additionally, their works serve as historical lenses through which we can understand human experiences during their respective periods—Rumi during the turmoil of the Mongol invasions in the 13th century and Ferdowsi amidst the Arab conquest in the 11th century. The findings of this analysis will elucidate how their interpretations of peace convey universal messages that remain relevant in contemporary discussions on conflict resolution and coexistence. Ultimately, this study positions Rumi and Ferdowsi as instrumental sources in shaping Iran's global historical image while underscoring their enduring soft power within the Iranian cultural sphere and beyond. By critically examining their contributions within a broader Persianate framework, we can appreciate their lasting impact on both regional identities and global cultural dialogues.

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