M6:51 — هست احوالم خلاف همدگر / هر یکی با هم مخالف در اثر

Translation: My states are contrary to one another; Each, in effect, is opposed to the other.

Meaning: Mowlana asserts that the human being's inner states are in constant conflict, and these internal contradictions manifest themselves in one's actions and conduct.

In the Mathnavi, before delving into the inner struggles of humanity, Mowlana first alludes to the perpetual conflict inherent in the very fabric of existence. The cosmos itself is founded upon opposites: "Four elements are four mighty pillars / Upon which the roof of the world rests / Each pillar is the breaker of the other." This struggle is not only evident in the natures and actions of things but also in words. The world is built on pillars of strife, and we, being a part of this nature, have inevitably inherited a share of this contention and conflict. We are at war with each other over profit and loss.

However, Mowlana quickly transitions from this cosmic worldview to an ethical and educational counsel. He urges us to look within ourselves: "My states are contrary to one another; / Each, in effect, is opposed to the other." This spectrum of shifting states—of joy and sorrow, anger and tranquility—all wage war within us. From this, a crucial conclusion emerges: "Since every moment I cut off my own path, / How can I get along with others?" How can a person who is at war with themselves ever be at peace with others?

This is a pivotal point in Mowlana's psychology that resonates perfectly with our contemporary understanding: whoever is constantly in dispute with others must seek the root of the problem within themselves. Such a person projects what they perceive as unresolved within their own being onto others. "Behold the wave of armies of my states; / Each one is at war and enmity with the other. / Look at yourself, at such a heavy war; / Why then are you busy with the war of others?" This couplet acts as a probe for self-knowledge. Mowlana instructs us that before engaging in conflict with others, we should address and resolve our own internal battles.

From Mowlana's perspective, "human evolution consists of being freed from inner war." This internal struggle is a tremendous waste of energy. When a person wears themselves out and consumes themselves, no energy remains to combat vices or to resolve their own shortcomings. Thus, the ultimate goal of perfection is the cessation of this inner war. Mowlana also points to the path of liberation: "Or perhaps God will rescue you from this war, / And carry you into a world of uniform peace." Ultimately, it is divine grace that can liberate humanity from this strife and guide one to a world of unified, inner peace—a tranquility that, transcending all conflict, encompasses one's entire being.

Key takeaways

• The perpetual conflict of inner human states is the source of many external disputes.
• The problem of conflict with others often stems from the projection of unresolved inner struggles.
• Human evolution and the attainment of peace depend on liberation from inner, egoistic wars.
• Internal conflict is a waste of energy, hindering the fight against vices and the resolution of shortcomings.
• Freedom from this inner strife sometimes requires divine grace, leading to a state of uniform peace.