Rumi and Sultan Bahoo: conference highlights role of Sufism in promoting love and unity

ISLAMABAD: The MUSLIM Institute conducted a national conference titled “Mevlana Rumi and Hazrat Sultan Bahoo: Preachers of Human Friendship, Peace, Love, and Harmony.”

This significant event celebrated the profound legacies of two eminent Sufi saints and their enduring relevance in the modern era. The conference took place at the National Language Promotion Department (National Language Authority) in Islamabad, drawing dignitaries, scholars, and intellectuals from diverse fields to contribute their valuable perspectives on Sufism’s crucial role in molding societal norms and values.

The roster of distinguished speakers included Prof Dr Muhammad Saleem Mazhar, Director General of the National Language Promotion Department; Sahibzada Sultan Ahmad Ali, Chairman of the MUSLIM Institute; Mr. Anssi Kullberg, Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of Finland in Islamabad; Professor Niaz Ahmad Akhtar, Vice-Chancellor of Quaid-e-Azam University; Senator Mushahid Hussain Syed; and Dr. Khalil Toqar, Country Director of the Yunus Emre Institute in Islamabad.

The speakers collectively conveyed that Sultan Bahoo’s message is one of love and friendship, necessitating human qualities such as politeness, courteousness, patience, and humility. Sultan Bahoo’s poetry’s concept of ‘Hoo’ is described as eternal. They said that the earthly love we express through love, peace, and respect serves as a metaphor for divine love.

The speakers said that Sufi teachings impart lessons of divine reality, which are manifested through our virtuous behaviour. Mevlana Rumi echoed this sentiment, advocating for relinquishing power to the Almighty and embracing kindness and compassion.

In a world fraught with dichotomies, the luminance of these Sufi luminaries serves as beacons, guiding us towards collective understanding and harmony,” the speakers stated. They further stressed the contemporary significance of Mevlana Rumi and Sultan Bahoo’s teachings, asserting that “In today’s intricate world, the essence of Sufism is indispensable. Respect for diverse opinions, ethical conduct, and human dignity transcends superficial distinctions such as attire and beliefs.”

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They said that the core tenet of Sufism is the ethos of peace and love. Divine-ordained justice forms the foundation of societal order, and Sufi teachings advocate for its steadfast implementation. Sufism’s principles are deeply embedded in the Pakistani ethos, serving as a defense against the perpetuation of injustices and strife. By adopting Sufi tenets, we strive to surpass our egos and work towards the greater good of humanity.

The speakers underscored the necessity for Sufi-inspired compassion and solidarity, especially in conflict-ridden regions, emphasizing, “Amidst the turmoil of conflicts from Gaza to Kashmir, it is our duty to embrace the spirit of Sufism, fostering a culture of love and brotherhood.”

The conference served as a poignant reminder of the timeless wisdom encapsulated in the teachings of Mevlana Rumi and Hazrat Sultan Bahoo. As intellectuals and leaders highlighted the importance of respectful dialogue and adherence to Sufi principles, the imperative for the younger generation to embrace a diversity of thought was underscored. Indeed, comprehending the true essence of Rumi and Sultan Bahoo is key to unlocking our authentic selves and fostering a more enlightened society.