The concept of "unity" in Masnavis of Rumi and Bidel Dehlavi based on conceptual metaphor

Abstract

The concept of unity is one of the spiritual, ambiguous and fundamental concepts in the field of mysticism and philosophy. And metaphor is the main and most important tool that the mystic poets, including Biddle Dehlavi and Rumi, have used to make tangible abstract mystical concepts such as unity. In this study, we will examine and analyze unity in the Masnavis of these two great poets (Erfan, Telesm e heyrat, Mohit e azam, Towre marefat and Masnavi e manavi) based on the theory of cognitive metaphor. After identifying the types and cognitive functions of metaphors, we will determine the views and ideas of Biddle and Rumi through them. After examining the works of both poets, we find that Rumi used more metaphors referring to natural, accessible, and religious things; Biddle, on the other hand, used more metaphors about human artifacts. Accordingly, in line with their pedagogical intentions in using metaphors, Rumi's main aim is to make the unit more comprehensible to the audience; but Biddle has also sought drama and thematization. Both put more emphasis on the use of some metaphors under the influence of their geographical environment, lifestyle and life experiences.

Keywords

• unity
• mawlana
• bidel dehlavi
• masnavi
• conceptual metaphor