An Analysis of the Foundations of Lyric Literature in Selected Surahs of the Qur’an Based on Rumi’s Interpretations in the Mathnawi

Abstract

Given the vast scope of lyric literature and its high audience appeal—largely due to its melodious and rhythmic nature—this study aims to analyze the foundations of lyric literature in selected Surahs of the Qur’an, with a particular emphasis on Rumi’s interpretations in the Mathnawi. While exploring the elements of lyric literature in certain Surahs analyzed within the Mathnawi, the study addresses themes such as love, joy, passion, and spiritual ecstasy. Due to the structure of Persian poetry, the themes of counsel, advice, praise, and description are also incorporated, aligning closely with the Qur’anic Surahs that penetrate the Mathnawi's romantic, ethical, and pedagogical content. The research adopts a library-based method. The statistical population includes all existing texts on lyric literature, and the sample was selected through screening articles that demonstrated greater consistency with the title, abstract, and conceptual components of the study. These samples were then analyzed using a descriptive-analytical method grounded in library data. The findings indicate that Rumi’s Mathnawi serves an instructional purpose, utilizing Qur’anic Surahs and themes to offer poetic teachings to his disciples. These teachings include subjects such as patience and perseverance, divine decree and predestination, consultation with the righteous and elders, loyalty, and more. Approximately 187 verses from the Mathnawi are shown to correspond with divine discourse, serving as a guide for humanity by integrating practical mysticism, sensory teachings, and theoretical recommendations grounded in Qur’anic Surahs and verses. Commentators and exegetes of the Mathnawi have noted that nearly one-fourth of the work constitutes indirect translations or interpretations of Qur’anic verses.