Discourses of Rumi

discourse 28The long entreating prayer-song of seekers andtravelers tells a story of lives occupied in laborand devotion with each effort assigned to its specialtime. It is as though an overseer of habitdraws them to their specific task. For example,when first rising in the morning, they give themselvesto contemplation and worship while themind is quiet and clear. Thus, each performs theservice that is suitable to them and comes withinthe scope of their noble Soul.There are a hundred thousand ranks. Thepurer someone becomes, the higher up they areraised. This story of spiritual growth is a longone. Whoever tries to shorten it would shortentheir own life and Soul, but for the grace of God.As for the prayer-songs of those who haveattained union with God, I must speak within thelimits of understanding—for their love and thepurity of their voices attract holy spirits, pureangels, and those visitors whom none know but