In Book 3, Section 96 of the Masnavi, Rumi utilizes the Islamic legal ruling that it is undesirable (makruh) for a blind person to lead congregational prayer to illustrate a profound spiritual principle. He contrasts physical blindness with inward or spiritual blindness (kur-e batin). While a physically blind person might unwittingly step into outward impurity (najasat-e zahir), the spiritually blind are immersed in the hidden impurities of the ego and ignorance. Thus, Rumi argues that a true spiritual leader or Imam must possess clear inner vision (being 'bright-eyed') to safely guide followers and avoid the imperceptible hazards of the spiritual path.