In Book Three of Jalaluddin Rumi's Masnavi, the poet elaborates on a prophetic tradition (Hadith) stating that the Quran possesses an outward meaning (ẓahr) and multiple inward dimensions (baṭn), reaching up to seven inner depths. Rumi explains this multiplicity of meaning through the metaphor of a human being. Just as a person's physical form is visibly apparent while their inner spirit remains hidden, the literal words of the Quran are accessible to all, whereas its profound spiritual realities require deeper insight to comprehend. Rumi warns against restricting one's understanding to the outward text, likening such a literalist approach to Iblis (Satan), who perceived Adam merely as physical clay and failed to recognize the divine breath within him.