In Farid al-Din Attar's The Conference of the Birds, the Valley of Quest (Wadi-ye Talab) is the first of the seven valleys the birds must traverse. It represents the initial awakening and the arduous effort required to begin the spiritual journey. In this valley, the seeker must endure severe trials, cast away worldly attachments (symbolized by giving up one's property and kingdom), and purify the heart of all attributes. The defining characteristic of this stage is an insatiable, burning desire for the Divine, where every obstacle encountered only multiplies the seeker's yearning. This absolute commitment and willingness to sacrifice everything form the necessary foundation for all subsequent spiritual progress.