Concept

The Allegory of the Refused Cushion and the Deceptive Old Hag in Section 41

In Section 41 of the 'Hadiqat al-Haqiqah', Sanai teaches the necessity of renouncing worldly attachment through two key allegories:

  1. The Refusal of the Cushion: A master ('Khwajeh') refuses to lean on a cushion offered to him, explaining that someone who is mindful of death, the grave, and the day of judgment cannot comfortably rely on temporary worldly supports. He declares that all earthly reliance leads only to sorrow and desire, whereas God's mercy is the only true refuge.
  2. The Deceptive Old Hag: Sanai personifies the material world as an ugly, foul-mouthed old hag ('gandeh-pir') disguised under jewelry and fine clothing ('holi va holleh'). He warns that the world uses deceptive coloration ('rang o nirang') to entrap those who mistake its outer beauty for substance.

Together, these metaphors urge the seeker to look past the attractive illusions of the physical world and find true security solely in divine mercy.

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Updated 2026-07-04

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Humanities

Literature

Persian Literature Prerequisite Course