Jalaluddin Rumi (1207 – 1273)
Know that the world of created beings
is like pure and clear water, reflecting
the attributes of God.
Their knowledge, justice and kindness
reflects God’s like a heavenly star is
reflected in running water.
Earthly kings reflect God’s kingship.
Scholars mirror the wisdom of God.
People and nations may change as
one generation replaces another;
but the divine attributes are eternal.
The water flowing in the stream
changes many times, but the
reflection of the moon and stars
in the water remains the same.
(Masnavi 6: 3172-8)
image: philip arnold
