Today begins a long series of contemplations inspired by The Conference of the Birds, by Attar of Nishapur (1145-1220 CE). Attar was a leading Sufi poet during the early 13th century who is recognized today for his contribution to mystic Sufi poetry. He is the forerunner of Rumi and Hafiz. One of his seminal works is The Conference of the Birds, an epic allegory concerning our struggle to escape suffering and find meaning.
Attending to Attar, Day 1
You are the one, the voice that carries across the valley. You are wisdom’s messenger. To remember your true nature, remove all attachments from the me of the body. You are the voice of wisdom. You are not your body or its personality. Raise your voice like a bird singing in early morning light. Sit high in the tree to witness the dawning day. Stay far above the earthly realm. Know without thinking. Hear without ears the heavenly silence.
The tree of knowledge stands tall in the heavens. Here you nest. The realm of darkness once tugged at you but has worn away. Defy darkness. Bloom brightly in heaven’s light. Leave behind the earthly realm. Enter the room within. Learn to live as your own true nature. This new beginning is the end of understanding. Learn to know from your inner nature. The heart is now your home. Settle in. Wisdom will join you.
