Introduction: The Mystic Voice of Persia
Fariduddin Attar (RA) was one of the greatest Persian Sufi poets and mystics of the 12th century. His poetry beautifully united divine love and human longing. Moreover, his influence on later poets, especially Jalaluddin Rumi (RA), remains undeniable.
Rumi once said:
“Attar has traversed the seven cities of love; we are still at the corner of one street.”
Through his poetic allegories and profound wisdom, Attar transformed Persian literature into a medium of spiritual enlightenment. Furthermore, his writings continue to guide seekers toward divine truth and inner peace.
Early Life and Education
Birth and Early Profession
Born around 1145 CE in Nishapur, Persia (modern-day Iran), Abū Ḥamīd bin Abū Bakr Ibrāhīm, known as Fariduddin Attar (RA), lived during a vibrant period of intellectual and spiritual awakening. Initially, he worked as a perfumer and apothecary, which inspired his pen name Attar — meaning “one who deals in perfumes.”
While he healed physical ailments in his shop, he also encountered countless stories of human pain and suffering. Consequently, these experiences awakened in him a deep spiritual yearning.
Path to Spiritual Awakening
Over time, Attar grew detached from worldly life. He eventually abandoned his profession to seek divine truth through contemplation and Sufi practice. From that point onward, he dedicated his life entirely to spiritual writing and mystical exploration.
Attar’s Spiritual Philosophy
Attar’s philosophy centers on divine love (Ishq), self-annihilation (Fana), and union with the Divine (Tawhid). He believed that the ego acts as a barrier between humanity and Allah (ﷻ). Therefore, to experience divine unity, one must dissolve the self completely.
In addition, Attar emphasized that reason alone cannot lead to God — only through love and surrender can one perceive divine reality. As a result, his writings became both poetic and philosophical roadmaps for spiritual seekers.
Major Works of Fariduddin Attar (RA)
- The Conference of the Birds (Mantiq al-Tayr)
Overview and Theme
Attar’s masterpiece, The Conference of the Birds, is an allegorical poem of over 4,500 lines. It narrates the story of birds who embark on a quest to find their king, the Simurgh, under the guidance of the wise hoopoe.
Spiritual Message
Each bird symbolizes a human flaw — pride, greed, or fear — that must be overcome. Furthermore, the journey through the Seven Valleys (Quest, Love, Knowledge, Detachment, Unity, Wonderment, and Annihilation) represents stages of spiritual growth.
Review
The poem serves as a metaphor for the soul’s journey toward divine realization. Through its rhythmic verses and rich symbolism, Attar invites readers to confront their inner obstacles and embrace spiritual awakening.
- The Book of Secrets (Asrar-Nama)
Overview
Asrar-Nama translates to The Book of Secrets. It contains mystical stories and parables that explore humanity’s relationship with God.
Review
Each tale conveys profound lessons on humility and devotion. Moreover, Attar’s elegant storytelling blends humor and wisdom, ensuring that even complex Sufi truths remain accessible. Consequently, the book continues to captivate readers seeking insight into divine mysteries.
- The Book of Divine Love (Ilahi-Nama)
Overview
In Ilahi-Nama, a wise king’s six sons express their worldly desires — power, wealth, and fame. However, the king teaches them that such ambitions lead only to emptiness.
Review
The book emphasizes that true fulfillment lies in divine love, not material gain. Additionally, Attar’s gentle tone and simple parables make this text both educational and deeply moving. It still resonates with those who long for a higher purpose.
- The Memorial of the Saints (Tadhkirat al-Awliya)
Overview
This prose masterpiece records the lives and miracles of early Sufi saints such as Bayazid Bastami (RA), Rabi’a al-Adawiyya (RA), and Mansur al-Hallaj (RA).
Review
Tadhkirat al-Awliya preserves the legacy of Sufism’s earliest teachers. In addition, it offers timeless lessons on faith, love, and self-sacrifice. For this reason, it remains one of the most valuable sources for understanding classical Sufi spirituality.
Influence on Later Sufi Poets
Fariduddin Attar (RA) profoundly influenced later Sufi masters and Persian poets. Indeed, Rumi (RA), Saadi (RA), and Hafiz (RA) all admired and learned from his wisdom.
Rumi beautifully declared:
“Attar was the spirit, Sanai his eyes — and I came after them.”
Moreover, Attar’s spiritual legacy transcends time. His allegories inspired not only Islamic mystics but also Western poets and philosophers who sought meaning beyond material life.
Death and Legacy
Attar (RA) is believed to have passed away around 1221 CE, during the Mongol invasion of Nishapur. Despite this tragedy, his influence never faded.
Even today, his tomb in Nishapur draws countless pilgrims who pay homage to his unmatched contributions to Sufi thought. In truth, Attar’s name continues to symbolize love, humility, and divine devotion.
The Eternal Journey of the Soul
Fariduddin Attar (RA) was not merely a poet; he was a visionary who turned poetry into a path to God. His works remind us that love — not intellect, not power — is the ultimate means to reach the Divine.
In summary, Attar’s writings remain a luminous guide for anyone seeking to understand the purpose of life, the depth of love, and the beauty of surrender to Allah (ﷻ).