In this program, I will introduce you to Shams of Tabriz, Rumi’s teacher. We will talk about who Shams was as his influence had a great impact on the next two decades of Rumi’s life; on who Rumi became. Even though Shams was something of a recluse, he had a rather refreshingly candid personality. This was particularly apparent when he spoke truth to power in political times that were fraught with turmoil. Shams was in his 60s, a couple of decades older than Rumi, had traveled much and was a learned person. Furthermore, his profession was basket-weaving, a metaphor often used for weaving and shaping one’s personality. Listen to the program to see how Shams reshaped Rumi’s life!
program transcript
Rumi’s approach to understanding oneself in a deeper sense. At times, he looks beyond speaking, beyond describing us with words. He encourages us to explore the mystery of who we are, and through that, the mystery of the universe that houses and nurtures us. A wordless poetic journey!
transcript of audio file
Opening song: Arayesh e ghaliz, Homayun Shajarian
Producer: Sogand Seirafi
Graphic Designer: Amaal Yazdi
Editorial Consultant: Faezeh Lotfalian
Project Manager: Samar Ata
Audio editing: Tommy Hegarty
Technical assistance is provided by the Center for Innovation in Teaching at Learning, University of Maryland
The program starts with the significance of Rumi’s poetry in Iranian culture and Fatemeh Keshavarz’s encounter with this poetry from early childhood. Rumi’s poetry and personality are described through anecdotes from his life and examples from his poetry.
Radio Rumi is hosted by Dr. Fatemeh Keshavarz at the University of Maryland. In this bi monthly series, Dr. Keshavarz explores Rumi’s words and invites the listener to enter his vibrant universe and see with fresh eyes.
Opening song: Arayesh e ghaliz, Homayun Shajarian
Producer: Sogand Seirafi
Graphic Designer: Amaal Yazdi
Editorial Consultant: Faezeh Lotfalian
Project Manager: Samar Ata
Audio editing: Tommy Hegarty
Technical assistance is provided by the Center for Innovation in Teaching at Learning, University of Maryland