M3:2114 — بهر کتمان مدیح از نا محل / حق نهادست این حکایات و مثل

This couplet appears in a section where Rumi is addressing his patron, Husam al-Din Chalabi, whom he often praises in veiled language throughout the Masnavi. Rumi has just concluded a series of praises, acknowledging that he has often praised 'those of the past' but his true intention was always Husam al-Din. He now explains why he uses such indirect methods—stories, parables, and seemingly generic praises. It is a divine strategy: God Himself established this method of using 'tales and parables' (حکایات و مثل) to 'veil praise from the undeserving ear' (کتمان مدیح از نا محل).

This is a crucial Sufi concept: spiritual truths, like precious jewels, are not to be cast before those who cannot appreciate them or might misuse them. Direct, unmediated praise of a spiritual master like Husam al-Din, or of the divine qualities manifested in him, could be misinterpreted, cause envy, or simply be lost on those not spiritually attuned. The stories act as a filter, allowing those with 'ears to hear' to grasp the deeper meaning, while others might only perceive an entertaining narrative. It's a method of protection—for the truth, for the praised, and even for the unready listener.