M6:4262 — در چنین وقتش بدید و سخت زد / چوب‌ها و زخمهای بی‌عدد

Translation: At such a time, the patrolman saw him and struck him hard, / With countless blows and wounds. Meaning: The night patrol, mistaking the treasure-seeker for a thief, found him at an inopportune moment and subjected him to a severe and numerous beating.

This couplet describes a painful encounter in the story of the treasure-seeker. Having failed to find the treasure in Cairo, he returns to Baghdad, destitute and hungry, forced to beg at night. Mowlana here paints a harrowing picture of his confrontation with the harsh realities of life.

As I have often emphasized, in approaching the Masnavi, we must not be superficial in our vision. This couplet, on the surface, details the plight of this dervish: a merciless and unwarranted beating. The patrolman (ʿas-as) strikes him fiercely, and Mowlana describes the patrolman's disposition, stating he was 'unyielding from yellow bile' (referring to ṣafrā, a humor in ancient medicine associated with anger and impatience). Yet, within the larger narrative, this event is not an absolute catastrophe but an indispensable step towards an eventual breakthrough.

The times were also harsh that night; 'dreadful and inauspicious nights' when thieves were rampant, and the city's ruler had decreed that no one should be out after dark, threatening immediate amputation for anyone caught, regardless of their status. This tale teaches us that sometimes external circumstances place us in inescapable situations. This treasure-seeker was neither a thief nor had criminal intent, but he was mistakenly caught at a time of severe anti-theft laws. This echoes the Quranic verse, "Perhaps you dislike a thing and it is good for you." Many things you find unpleasant may, in fact, hold your good.

In that dire situation, the dervish implores the patrolman for a chance to 'speak the truth of his state.' This apparent complaint, born of desperation and pain, ultimately leads to the revelation of truth. The countless blows and wounds become the prelude to his story being heard, and the hidden treasure being unveiled. Had it not been for this altercation and beating, he would never have had the opportunity to recount his dream to the patrolman, and the hidden treasure would not have come to light. This is a profound lesson: one should not despair from apparent hardships and sufferings, for they may well be the gateway to greater, hidden blessings. This is the essence of 'patience and victory' (ṣabr and ẓafar), as Imam Ali stated: "The patient person will ultimately achieve victory, even if a long time passes."

Key takeaways

• Apparent hardships can be a prelude to hidden blessings and greater good.
• Judging by appearances prevents us from discerning the hidden wisdom in events.
• Even undeserved suffering and injustice can serve a crucial, unforeseen purpose in one's destiny.
• Patience and steadfastness in the face of difficulties are keys to eventual relief and success.
• The transient nature of the world means neither sorrow nor joy is permanent.