Concept
The Orthographic Allegory of Vigilance and Forbearance in Jami's Section 10
In Section 10 of the Silsilat al-Dhahab (Haft Awrang), Jami employs an orthographic allegory based on the spelling of the Arabic word for justice ('Adl, عدل) to define the essential virtues of a just ruler:
- The Letter 'Ayn (ع): Being the first letter, Jami compares its shape to an eye on the head. Because it is vocalized with fatha (open vowel), it symbolizes that the ruler must keep the eye of physical sight and spiritual insight wide open, continuously monitoring the welfare of their subjects and never turning a blind eye to injustice.
- The Letter Dal (د): Located in the middle, Jami likens it to a heart positioned inside the body. Because it is marked with sukun (quiet/silent), it signifies that the ruler's heart must remain peaceful, patient, and unmoved by irritation or agitation (hilm) when listening to the complaints of the oppressed.
Through this calligraphic wordplay, Jami underscores that outer vigilance and inner emotional stability are the twin pillars of royal ju...
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Updated 2026-07-07
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Humanities
Literature
Persian Literature Prerequisite Course