Discourses of Rumi

FIHI MA FIHI V 295God, those who believe and are not evildoers—give them a portion of Your provision.” Goddeclared, “My provision is common to all menand women, and everyone shall have a share of it.All creatures enjoy their portion of benefits fromthis guesthouse. But the robe of My approval, andthe honor of ennoblement and distinction, are aspecial gift for the elect and chosen ones.”“We appointed the House to beA place of visitation for the people,And a sanctuary.‘Take to yourselves Abraham’s stationFor a place of prayer.’”The literalists say that what is intended by this“House” is the Kaaba, for in the Kaaba it is forbiddento hunt, and no malice is allowed againstanyone. God singled out that House for Itself.This is all perfectly true and fine, but that is theliteral interpretation of the Koran. However, theSufis say that the “House” is the inward part ofour beingness. In other words, “God, free myinward self of temptation and worldly plans.Cleanse it of passions and idle thoughts, so thatno fear can enter in and security will prevail. Letit become completely the center of Your revelation.”