Rumi and the Concept of Hope: An Analysis within the Framework of Hope Sociology

Mevlâna ve Umut Kavramı: Umut Sosyolojisi Çerçevesinde Bir Analiz

Abstract

This study aims to illuminate how Rumi’s understanding of hope can be interpreted within the framework of sociology and philosophy of religion and to provide an in-depth examination of his approach to the concepts of hope, utopia, and savior. It further analyzes his works in the context of Henri Desroche’s sociology of religion and Ernst Bloch’s philosophy of hope. Henri Desroche defines hope as a miraculous lifeline and interprets religion-based hope as a waking dream or a collective imagination. Ernst Bloch divides hope and utopia into two fundamental categories: subjective hope, which symbolizes the savior awaited by society, and objective hope, defined as a tangible action. This dual structure ensures the continuity of subjective hope across generations. In Rumi, hope carries a profound meaning and occupies a prominent place in the collective memory of societies.

Rumi characterizes hope as the sun and despair as darkness. His perspective on hope is not metaphysical but rather oriented towards praising it. For Rumi, the human experience of being temporarily disjointed from their true essence offers the most significant longing and anticipation. Rumi builds utopia upon ethics and love, which is only attainable by transcending material desires. His understanding of hope and utopia is grounded in Islamic teachings, gnosis, and Sufi principles. This context offers striking similarities with the views of Desroche and Bloch, albeit with notable divergences.

Keywords: Rumi, Sociology of Hope, Principle of Hope, Henri Desroche, Ernst Bloch