M6:2985 — بعد غیبت چونک آورد او قدوم / در زمین می‌گفت او درس نجوم

Translation: After his absence, when he returned, / On earth he taught the lesson of astronomy (nojūm). Meaning: This verse describes how the prophet Idris, after a period of spiritual absence and communion with the celestial spheres, returned to impart the knowledge of astronomy to those on Earth.

This verse is part of a narrative where Mowlana discusses Prophet Idris and his unique connection to astronomy and the stars. Here, Mowlana refers to a mythical and narrative belief that attributes to Idris a special kind of 'likeness' or 'affinity' (jensiyat) with the higher realm, particularly with the planet Saturn. I have often emphasized that Mowlana is neither a historian nor a scientific explainer of phenomena; he is a poet who uses the canvas of myths and stories to convey deeper spiritual truths. The tale of Idris is one such instance.

In my view, the pivotal point in this couplet is the concept Mowlana terms jensiyat. He states elsewhere, 'The reckless brings forth the reckless, for they are of the same kind in intellect.' This implies that every phenomenon or being attracts and draws its own kind. In Idris's case, this jensiyat was with astronomy and celestial bodies. This affinity was so profound and essential that it was as if he had communed with Saturn for many years, stepping in unison with it. This companionship occurred not in a spatial dimension, but in the dimension of truth and essence.

The outcome of this existential connection and hidden affinity is that when Idris returns to Earth after his 'absence' and presence in the higher sphere, the knowledge of astronomy overflows from within him. Mowlana crafts a marvelous image: 'Before him, stars were beautifully lined up; planets were present in his lesson.' This indicates that his knowledge was not acquired through mere observation and reasoning, but through a union and affinity with the source of that knowledge. The stars appear not as silent objects, but as students in his presence, because he knows their language and is connected to their truth. It is the attraction of likeness that makes this connection possible; it is as if the knowledge of astronomy has been drawn from the heavens to Earth and manifested in Idris.

Therefore, this story is less a historical report and more a symbol of the power of spiritual attraction and the effect of affinity with the truths of existence. A human being who becomes akin to a truth can manifest that truth within themselves and reveal it to others. This is why the science of astronomy is heard from Idris 'by both common and elite'; meaning, both the learned and the lay can hear the melody of this knowledge from his very being. This is a key insight into Mowlana's thought: truths are understood from within and through the 'pull of affinity,' not merely from outside and through superficial senses.

Key takeaways

• Mowlana uses myths and narratives to elucidate deeper truths, rather than for historical reporting.
• The concept of jensiyat (spiritual affinity) is a core force in Mowlana's understanding of human connection to the cosmos.
• True knowledge can be attained through union and communion with the essence of existence, not solely through observation and reasoning.
• Idris symbolizes a human who, through inner affinity, manifests the knowledge of the stars within himself.
• Spiritual attraction enables unseen truths to manifest tangibly on Earth.