In Book 2 of Jalaluddin Rumi's Masnavi, the narrative of Dhu al-Nun continues as his supposed friends visit him in the asylum, declaring their unwavering love and loyalty. To test their sincerity, Dhu al-Nun begins shouting, throws stones, and acts violently. Terrified, the friends immediately flee, exposing the superficiality of their devotion. Rumi uses this dramatic encounter to deliver a profound lesson on the true nature of friendship and spiritual love. He asserts that genuine friendship is not defined by shared comfort or cheerfulness, but by the capacity to endure pain, affliction, and hardship for the beloved. Rumi concludes with a striking metaphor: a true friend is like pure gold, and calamity is like fire. Just as pure gold is tested and rejoices in the heart of the fire, true spiritual devotion remains steadfast amidst severe suffering.