Concept Overview

In Chapter 47, Poem 56 of the Mokhtar Nameh, Attar utilizes the metaphors of the candle, the adept (ayyar), and the flyer (tayyar) to illustrate the absolute, non-negotiable nature of self-annihilation (fana) in the path of divine love.

Key Metaphors and Themes

• The Burning of the 'Dry and Wet' (خشک و تر): This phrase represents everything that constitutes an individual's life, worldly attributes, and attachments. For the true spiritual adept, nothing can be spared; both the dry and the wet must be completely consumed.
• The Burning of 'Wings and Feathers' (بال و پر): For those who fly or ascend spiritually, even their instruments of flight (their abilities, intellect, or spiritual achievements) must be surrendered and burned to prevent them from becoming sources of pride or self-existence.
• The Surrendering of the Head: To play or risk one's head represents the ultimate sacrifice of the ego and consciousness.
• **The Candle's Inevitable Con...