Concept

The Allegory of Reputational Sacrifice and Ego Annihilation in Jami's Tale of the Youth Who Took the Name of Thief

In Section 49 of Jami's Silsilat al-Dhahab (from the Haft Awrang), the story of the youth who willingly accepts the shameful reputation of a thief to protect his beloved's honor serves as an allegory for the Sufi path of blame (malamat) and the surrender of the ego.

In Sufi mysticism, worldly honor (namus) and social reputation (jah) are major obstacles to spiritual sincerity. By choosing to be branded a thief rather than expose his secret love, the youth completely sacrifices his social standing and self-interest. This act represents fana (annihilation of the ego) and complete submission to the Beloved's will. Ultimately, Jami demonstrates that it is precisely through this complete self-effacement and willingness to endure public disgrace that the lover proves his absolute sincerity, which unlocks the final reward of spiritual union.

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Updated 2026-07-07

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Humanities

Literature

Persian Literature Prerequisite Course