The Metaphor of the Pupil of the Eye (Mardomak)

In Book One of the Masnavi, during the dialogue between the hare and the beasts, Rumi introduces the metaphor of the pupil of the eye (mardomak). Rumi plays on the Persian double meaning of mardom (people) and mardomak (little person / pupil of the eye).

Key Themes:

• Apparent Smallness vs. Real Greatness: Physically, the pupil of the eye is minute and seemingly insignificant. Yet, it is the sole instrument of sight, reflecting and encompassing the entire world.
• The Spiritual Guide and Prophets: Just as the pupil is small but holds the power of vision, prophets and spiritual guides may appear physically small, weak, or insignificant in the eyes of worldly people (khord). However, their inner spiritual vision is vast and capable of guiding humanity out of existential calamity (bala).
• Misjudgment by Outward Appearances: Worldly individuals often fail to recognize the immense capacity of spiritual gu...