Attar of Nishapur, also known as Farid ud-Din Attar (c. 1145–1221), was a celebrated Persian poet, Sufi mystic, and philosopher whose works continue to inspire spiritual seekers around the world. Renowned for his profound allegories and poetic mastery, Attar is considered one of the greatest figures in Persian literature and Sufi thought. His writings explore the essence of divine love, human existence, and the soul’s journey toward God, making him a pivotal voice in Islamic mysticism.
Early Life and Background
Attar was born in Nishapur, a thriving city in northeastern Iran during the 12th century. His birth name was Abū Ḥamīd bin Abū Bakr Ibrāhīm, but he became widely known by his pen name “Attar,” which means “perfumer” or “apothecary.” Before devoting his life to spirituality and poetry, Attar worked as a pharmacist and healer. His occupation exposed him to the suffering of people, which sparked deep reflections on mortality, the meaning of life, and the pursuit of divine truth.
Literary Contributions
Attar of Nishapur authored numerous works, but only a few survive today. His most famous masterpiece is “The Conference of the Birds” (Mantiq al-Tayr), a mystical allegory that illustrates the soul’s quest for union with the Divine. In this poetic narrative, thousands of birds embark on a journey to find their king, the Simurgh, symbolizing God. The journey represents the stages of spiritual awakening, with themes of selflessness, love, and devotion at its core.
Other significant works by Attar include:
- Asrar Nama (The Book of Mysteries) – a collection of mystical tales and parables.
- Ilahi Nama (The Book of God) – focusing on renunciation and divine love.
- Tadhkirat al-Awliya (Memorial of the Saints) – a prose work that preserves the lives and sayings of earlier Sufi saints.
These writings not only enriched Persian literature but also shaped the spiritual philosophy of later mystics, including Rumi, who acknowledged Attar as a guiding influence.
Philosophy and Mysticism
Attar’s philosophy revolves around Sufi principles of self-annihilation (fana), love of God, and the transcendence of the ego. He believed that true enlightenment is attained only through the dissolution of the self in the Divine essence. His allegories encourage seekers to abandon worldly attachments and embrace spiritual devotion.
One of Attar’s most enduring messages is that the path to God is both personal and universal. In The Conference of the Birds, the realization that the Simurgh is a reflection of the seekers themselves highlights the idea that divinity resides within every soul.
Influence and Legacy
Attar’s influence transcended his own era. His mystical insights profoundly shaped Rumi, who famously said, “Attar has roamed through the seven cities of love, while we are still at the turn of one street.” This acknowledgment reflects Attar’s immense impact on Persian Sufi literature and Islamic spirituality.
Even centuries after his death—believed to have occurred around 1221 during the Mongol invasion of Nishapur—Attar’s works remain widely read and studied. His allegories resonate across cultures, offering timeless wisdom about love, faith, and the human quest for meaning.
Conclusion
Attar of Nishapur stands as a towering figure in Persian poetry and Sufi philosophy. His works, especially The Conference of the Birds, continue to inspire readers with their profound spiritual symbolism and poetic beauty. As a mystic poet and philosopher, Attar’s legacy endures, reminding humanity of the eternal journey toward divine truth and enlightenment.