M6:2087 — شب‌روان و همرهان مه به تگ / ترک رفتن کی کنند از بانگ سگ

Translation: Night-travelers and companions of the moon, at a swift pace, How could they abandon their journey because of the barking of dogs? Meaning: Spiritual wayfarers, guided by divine light (the moon), will never be deterred from their determined path by trivial opposition or distracting noises (likened to the barking of dogs).

This verse is among those where Mevlana points to the steadfastness of wayfarers and men of truth on their path, highlighting the insignificance of their detractors. As you can observe, I have repeatedly emphasized in my lectures that Mevlana possesses a profound insight into the spiritual states of divine men and their journey along the path of love.

In this parable, the “night-travelers” are the spiritual seekers, and the “companions of the moon” refers to those whose path is illuminated by the light of divine guidance (the moon). They advance with “tag,” meaning with swiftness and utmost earnestness, along their chosen way. This movement is not merely a physical journey but an existential progression towards the ultimate destination, the Divine Truth. As the Holy Quran states, “Indeed, to Him we are returning” (إِنَّا إِلَیْهِ رَاجِعُونَ); all of existence is in motion towards Him. However, the night-travelers undertake this path consciously and with insight.

Opposing this resolute movement is the “barking of dogs.” The dog here symbolizes disruptive noises, baseless objections, or even trivial hostilities and enmities that arise from the ignorant or ill-intentioned. Mevlana wishes to convey that such noises can never influence the resolute will and determination of those who walk by the light of the moon (divine guidance). Could one who sees the sunlight be obscured by a puff of breath? Could a mighty ocean be defiled by a dog’s snout? Undoubtedly not. These parables all underscore a single point: truth and its adherents are so potent and self-sufficient that they remain unharmed by the temptations and machinations of sightless bats and barking dogs.

Mevlana employs such parables to articulate the unwavering resolve of God’s saints. Although they may inwardly experience “a hundred Noah’s floods,” outwardly they remain calm and firm, never allowing external clamor to disrupt their course. This steadfastness and disregard for distractions stem from their clear destination and manifest guiding light. They perceive the ultimate goal of their journey as union and certainty, and this deep certitude prevents the idle chatter of others from deterring them from continuing on their path.

Key takeaways

• Spiritual wayfarers pursue a purposeful journey, guided by divine light (the moon).
• Ignorant opposition and disruptive noises (dog's barking) are insignificant against the seeker's resolve.
• Steadfastness and perseverance on the spiritual path prevent halt in the face of external difficulties.
• Like the sea and the sun, truth is so potent that it remains unharmed by malevolence.
• The world is dynamic, with all creation moving towards God; seekers consciously embrace this acceleration.