Preface to the New Edition

along with some remarks on the worldview of Jalal al-Din Rumi, as it emerges from his works.

Mysticism is the alchemy of religion. Just as alchemy sought the formula to produce gold, the humanity of the Middle Ages simultaneously sought a simple formula—a reliable method for achieving the salvation of the soul. In both cases, the goal was to peer behind the veil of mystery that hid the longed-for objective. The alchemists produced no gold, yet their searching was not in vain. It led to the precise observation of natural forces and thus to the most significant discoveries and inventions, and finally to the founding of that science The author refers here to Chemistry. which is perhaps most qualified of all to offer a deep insight into the essence of things outside ourselves—yes, perhaps even into the question of the origin and nature of life itself.

Mysticism is different: its goals were not tangible. Whether they were reached or not was decided not by objective findings, but solely by the subjective state of the seeker's soul. He who falls into religious ecstasy has attained union with God. His faith has helped him. The journey was his destination. What is subjectively experienced is truth for the subject. One owes no proof of it to anyone. Only

Preface, Mysticism, Alchemy, Jalal al-Din Rumi, Salvation of the Soul, Natural Forces, Ecstasy, Masnavi original: "Meßnevi"; the title of Rumi's primary poetic work, meaning "rhyming couplets."