From Rumi’s Fihi Ma Fihi: Discourses 49-50, Part 1 of 2

“Fihi Ma Fihi” which translates to “It Is What It Is” is Rumi’s most famous prose work. As with all his other works, it offers His great wisdom and insights.

Discourse 49

“[…] The poet, Urwa ibn Adhina, wrote, ‘I know well the way God provides our daily bread. What use is there in running about here and there with no purpose? Truly, when I forget about money, food, clothing and the desires of lust, my daily portion comes to me. But when I run after those desires, they only bring me pain and wear me out. If I sit where I belong, with patience, my needs are fulfilled without pain and distress.’”

Discourse 50

“That city is the human being. If in us are a hundred thousand talents, but not that essential element, better if that city were in ruins. But when that vital quality is there, the outward display matters not – our secret heart will be well furnished. In every state our heart is with God, and our outward work does not hinder our inward occupation. […] Simply looking at the water is not enough, for water may have the appearance of purity, but its taste and smell will prove if it is infected. […] Whatever you keep hidden in your heart, God manifests in you outwardly. Whatever the root of the tree feeds on in secret, affects the bough and the leaf. […]”