Concept Definition

In Book Six of the Masnavi, Rumi narrates the miracle of Sheikh Shaiban the Shepherd, who draws a protective boundary around his flock of sheep when leaving for Friday prayers. This circle miraculously prevents sheep from leaving and keeps wolves or thieves from entering.

Spiritual and Allegorical Significance

• Divine Protection (Wilayah): The circle represents the boundary of divine guardianship. Those within the circle of a spiritual guide are safe from the wolves of temptation and worldly distractions.
• Overriding Physical Nature: Just as the destructive wind (Sarsar) spared the believers within Prophet Hud's protective circle, natural elements and beasts submit to the spiritual authority of a saint.
• Critique of Materialism: Rumi uses this miracle to challenge natural philosophers (tabi'iyyun), encouraging them to perceive the metaphysical reality that transcends physical laws.