Past civilisations’ intellectual, artistic, and spiritual achievements are enduringly reflected in the manuscripts and artefacts they left behind. These treasures preserve the wisdom of scholars, the devotion of spiritual seekers, and the creativity of artisans, offering invaluable insights into human history and cultural evolution. By engaging with these timeless works, contemporary audiences can connect with the rich legacies of the past, fostering a deeper appreciation for the intricate tapestry of human achievement.

The House of Wisdom’s exhibition, ​​Rumi: 750 Years of Absence… Eight Centuries of Presence’ showcases Islamic civilisation’s spiritual and cultural heritage, highlighting invaluable items that shaped Jalal al-Din Rumi’s profound legacy. Each section of the exhibition—‘The Beginnings’, ‘The Transformation’, and ‘The Legacy’—thoughtfully explores Rumi’s journey, inviting contemporary audiences to reflect on the timeless power of love, harmony, and spiritual enlightenment.

Reflecting the intersection of faith, art, and resilience

Among the standout exhibits in the third section is the Sancak Quran (Banner Quran), a miniature manuscript no larger than four centimetres. The Ottoman artefact, once carried into battle by soldiers seeking divine protection, reflects the intersection of faith, art, and resilience.

The exhibition also includes Divan-e Sultan Walad, a poetry collection by Rumi’s son, Sultan Walad. This manuscript, dating to 768 AH (1390 AD), continues Rumi’s themes of divine love, asceticism, and spiritual introspection, embodying the enduring influence of his philosophy across generations. Rumi’s own Khirqa (Sufi Robe) complements the manuscripts, and is a simple yet expressive garment that symbolises his commitment to a life of meditation and remembrance. Crafted from simple fabric, it features long sleeves and loose cuts that allow for freedom of movement.

Artefacts of Devotion: Dervishes’ Cabinet and Sufi Instruments

The exhibition’s Dervishes’ Cabinet presents artefacts reflecting the ascetic lifestyle and spiritual practices of Sufi dervishes. Highlights include a finely carved wooden Rahle (bookstand) from the 7th century AH (13th century CE), adorned with intricate Rumi motifs, used for Quranic study and recitation. A boat-shaped wooden Keshkul (Dervish begging bowl), used to collect food and alms, underscores the dervishes’ reliance on charity and humility, while a decorated Muttaqa, a crutch-like support for long spiritual gatherings, reveals their disciplined approach to ascetic practice.

Sufi musical traditions are also showcased through instruments central to the Mevlevi Order’s whirling ceremonies, inspired by Rumi’s teachings. These include the Rebab, a coconut-shell string instrument with a bone-inlaid handle, and the Kiz Ney (Sufi Flute), symbolising the soul’s yearning for divine love. The collection is completed by a Kudum (Dervish Drum), a ceremonial drum covered with red leather from the Konya Mevlevi Dervish Lodge, used to enhance meditative melodies.

Rumi’s Enduring Legacy: Poetry, Philosophy, and Art

Jalal al-Din Rumi’s profound impact on art, poetry, and spirituality resonates through time, and his works, translated into numerous languages, continue to inspire audiences worldwide with their messages of divine love, unity, and truth. The exhibition pays homage to this legacy through artefacts like ‘The Sufi’ sculpture by Khaled Zaki, a bronze artwork depicting dervishes’ rhythmic, meditative movements during the Sama ceremony, a practice deeply rooted in Rumi’s philosophy.

Through its carefully curated displays, ‘Rumi: 750 Years of Absence… Eight Centuries of Presence’ celebrates the profound influence of Rumi’s teachings, offering visitors an unparalleled opportunity to engage with manuscripts, artefacts, and traditions that transcend time. Running until February 14, the exhibition features priceless items on loan from the Mevlâna Museum in Konya, with some being presented for the first time outside of Turkey. Various important artefacts and manuscripts will also be on display from other esteemed institutions, alongside those from prominent Sharjah collections such as the Barjeel Art Foundation and the Sharjah Museums Authority.