Concept

Imran's Surrender to the Divine Checkmate in the Masnavi

In Book 3 of Jalaluddin Rumi's Masnavi, the narrative of Moses' conception reaches its climax when Imran's wife miraculously visits him at midnight. This occurs despite Pharaoh's strict command that his trusted treasurer, Imran, sleep at the royal threshold to prevent any Israelite conceptions. Recognizing the undeniable force of divine will over human stratagems, Imran surrenders to his wife's arrival, acknowledging it as God's decree. After conceiving Moses, Imran profoundly articulates that human beings are merely instruments of destiny. He employs a striking chess metaphor, declaring that God is the true King of the board and that humanity is utterly 'checkmated' by His divine plans. Imran metaphorically describes the conception as iron striking stone to birth a fire that will eventually consume Pharaoh's kingdom, perfectly illustrating the absolute futility of attempting to thwart divine providence.

0

1

Updated 2026-05-08

Contributors are:

Who are from:

Tags

Humanities

Literature

Islam

Religion

Science

Philosophy

Social Science