The Motif of the Candle's Tears Washing the Moth's Body

In Attar's Mokhtar Nameh (Chapter 47, Poem 106), the poet adds a unique layer of reciprocal intimacy to the classic Sufi allegory of the moth and the candle (shama' va parvaneh). Here, the moth's self-sacrifice is paired with the candle's mourning:

1. Ritual Purification (Ablution): The moth falls at the candle's feet so that the candle's weeping tears (melted wax) can perform a final ritual purification or ablution of the lover's body.
2. Mutual Sorrow and Devotion: The beloved (the candle) is not entirely indifferent, but actively weeps for the lover (the moth), acknowledging and participating in the sacrifice.

This specific theme of the candle washing the moth's corpse with its tears represents the ultimate spiritual communion and purification in the Sufi path of love.