Be The Soul of the Place

By Sumit Paul, New Age Islam 17 December 2024 "Wherever you stand, be the soul of that place." Jalaluddin Rumi "The place you reside at is the extension of your soul and spirit." Guru Gobind Singh, 10th Guru of the Sikhs In this profound quote by Rumi, he emphasizes the embodiment of the soul within one's surroundings. "Wherever you stand, be the soul of that place" echoes the transformative power of presence and the deep connection between ourselves and our environment. It alludes to the notion that each place possesses a unique energy, and as individuals, we have the ability to infuse it with our own essence. Rumi's words invite us to be fully present in every moment, to acknowledge and honour the spirit of the location in which we find ourselves. By doing so, we become active participants in shaping its atmosphere and creating a harmonious resonance between our souls and the world around us. Jahan Bhi Jaao, Uss Jagah Ko Roshan Banao. Whether in solitude or amidst a bustling crowd, this quote reminds us of our capacity to bring light, positivity, and authenticity to any space we inhabit, leaving a lasting impact on those who encounter it. Rumi says, " I don't crib that the place is bad. I will adjust myself to the place." Love the place you're part of. And when you love a place, you don't desecrate it. "Har Satah Ko Muqaddas Bana Diya/ Woh Jahan Se Guzra Farishton Ne Sajda Kiya" (Every surface became sacred / Wherever he went, even angels genuflected). To align oneself with the environs and surroundings is to align with the universe. Human existence is all about synchronicity. Be in sync with not just the place you're in but stay on an even keel with whoever you meet, whatever you see and wherever you go because the soul is here for its own joy. Rumi's idea of soul is not amorphous. His soul was the very existence that we've. Make your existence meaningful because you are not a drop in the ocean. You are the entire ocean in a drop. "Qatrah Hi Sahi, Samandar Sama Gaya Hai Mujh Mein." This encapsulates the profound essence of human potential and individuality. Though every human is a little verse / When he expands, he exceeds the universe. It suggests that each person is not merely insignificant or lost in the vastness of existence, but rather holds within themselves the boundless power and depth of the entire universe. This quote is a reminder that our true self is not confined or limited by external circumstances, but rather encompasses the limitless capacity for growth, love, and wisdom. It invites us to recognize our unique significance and the immense potential we possess as individuals, encouraging us to embrace our inner vastness and navigate life's journey with confidence and authenticity. In short, it doesn't talk about smallness. Au contraire, it speaks of the vastness that we all have within the depths of our existence. ----- (A truncated version of the same has appeared in today's Economic Times) A regular columnist for New Age Islam, Sumit Paul is a researcher in comparative religions, with special reference to Islam. He has contributed articles to the world's premier publications in several languages including Persian. URL: https://www.newageislam.com/spiritual-meditations/jalaluddin-rumi-soul/d/134043 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism