Journal of the stylistic of Persian poem and prose
volume Number 19، number In Volume 9، December 2026 ، issue Number 127

Music as Ontology in Rumi's Masnavi and Divan-e Shams

Mohammad Oliki , Mohammad Reza Zamanahmadi (Author in Charge), Abdolreza Modarreszadeh

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: In Rumi"s thought, music transcends its role as an artistic phenomenon and becomes a means of explaining the structure of being, the relationship between the human being and the cosmos, and the manifestation of truth across different levels of existence. This study aims to investigate the ontological dimensions of music in the Masnavi-ye Ma"navi and the Divan-e Shams and to clarify its position within Rumi"s intellectual and mystical system.

METHODOLOGY: This research adopts a descriptive-analytical approach based on library research and documentary analysis.

FINDINGS: The findings indicate that Rumi employs musical concepts and symbols to represent the harmony and dynamism governing the universe, to interpret the movement of the celestial spheres and heavenly bodies through sonic patterns, to conceptualize sama as an existential and transformative experience of perception, and to present sound as a medium for the disclosure of meaning and spiritual awareness. Furthermore, musical instruments, melodies, and modal structures acquire symbolic functions in his thought, serving as expressive devices for depicting different levels of consciousness, modes of presence, and stages of the spiritual journey.

CONCLUSION: The findings demonstrate that, within Rumi"s intellectual framework, music extends far beyond an aesthetic or emotional phenomenon and functions as a fundamental paradigm for understanding reality and interpreting the ontological order of existence. Accordingly, musical elements in his poetry constitute a conceptual framework through which the relationship between humanity and the cosmos is articulated, the unity underlying the multiplicity of phenomena is revealed, and the progressive elevation of consciousness is represented.

Keyword
Music , Ontology , Rumi , Celestial Spheres , Sama , Sound