M6:1467 — جمله استادان پی اظهار کار / نیستی جویند و جای انکسار

Translation: All masters, for the manifestation of their work, Seek non-being and a place of humility. Meaning: Mowlana asserts that every master, whether an artist or a craftsman, requires an empty, unconditioned space to create something new. This mirrors the heart that, through humility and self-effacement, empties itself of attachments to become receptive to divine work.

This verse unveils a profound truth concerning the nature of creation and its relationship with non-being. Mowlana states unequivocally that "All masters, for the manifestation of their work, seek non-being and a place of humility." Whether these 'masters' refer to artists, craftsmen, or indeed, the Lord of all worlds, the principle remains constant: for any new and authentic work to emerge, an empty space must first be provided.

I have repeatedly emphasized that every creation begins from non-being. It is akin to an architect who, to build a magnificent house, seeks a barren, empty plot of land; or a farmer who chooses an unplanted field for sowing; or a painter who seeks a pristine, untouched canvas for their artistry. This 'non-being' (niyasti) is the 'original workshop'; that void, placelessness, and emptiness that conceals within itself the potential for creation.

The same principle applies to the human being. For the 'work of Truth' (kār-i Ḥaqq) to manifest in the human heart, the heart must be emptied of 'ulterior motives, ailments, preconceptions, prejudices, attachments, desires, and whims.' This is the 'place of humility' (jāy-i inkisār). 'Inkisār' here does not mean false modesty, but the breaking of the ego and true lowliness; that is, emptying oneself and preparing the self as a blank canvas for divine artistry. This is the station pursued by darvīshān and seekers of the path, which is why they outpace all others.

Thus, even the 'Master of Masters, the Eternally Besought' (Ustād-i Ustādān Ṣamad) has 'His workshop in non-being and nothingness.' This means God works and leaves His imprint where nothing pre-exists; where the human self has been emptied of claims, possessions, and attachments. The greater this 'non-being' and inner void, the more directly 'God's work and His workshop reside there.' This is a foundational point in gnosis (ʿirfān) and spiritual journeying; for without this inner emptying and humility, no space will be opened for the manifestation of Truth.

Key takeaways

• The creation of anything new, be it artistic or divine, originates from the ground of 'non-being' (niyasti) or empty space.
• 'Non-being' here signifies a blank canvas, an unplanted field, or a heart devoid of attachments.
• 'Inkisār' (true humility and self-effacement) is a prerequisite for preparing the human heart for the 'work of Truth.'
• God operates where the canvas of human existence is clear of egoistic preconceptions and claims.
• Darvīshān and spiritual seekers lead the way in spirituality by striving to attain the station of 'non-being' (emptying the false self).