An Examination of Rumi’s Character in Fihi Ma Fih Based on Erich Fromm’s Theoretical Views
Keywords:
Rumi, character/personality, Fihe ma Fihe, literary psychology, Erich Fromm, personality typesAbstract
This study aimed to explore the manifestation of Rumi’s character in his prose work Fihi Ma Fih based on Erich Fromm’s theory of character types. Within Fromm’s theoretical framework, “character” is defined as a relatively stable system of noninstinctual strivings that shapes an individual’s manner of relating to the world and to others. This framework encompasses such orientations as the being-oriented (generative), biophilic (productive), exploitative, and receptive types. Employing a qualitative-descriptive research design and content analysis of Rumi’s discourses in Fihi Ma Fih, the findings indicate that two character types are prominently reflected in Rumi’s character: the being-oriented type, characterized by creativity, transcendent love, and an authentic relationship with existence; and the biophilic type, centered on inner growth, moral responsibility, and conscious agency. In contrast, none of the components associated with domineering orientations, including the exploitative and receptive types, were identified in the work. The findings demonstrate the compatibility of Rumi’s mystical worldview with Fromm’s humanistic models of character.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Zeinab Pourbagher Mardekheh (Author); Mehri Talkhabi; Hossein Arian (Author)
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