Seven centuries ago, the beloved Sufi scholar and poet Jalaluddin Rūmī wrote, “What you are seeking is seeking you.” This statement suggests a mystical connection between one’s desires and the universe. It implies that the act of seeking aligns one with what one seeks, creating a reciprocal pursuit.

Rumi’s concept of “what you are seeking is seeking you” resonates deeply with many aspects of modern spirituality. Here are some key ways this idea relates to contemporary spiritual thought:

Interconnectedness and Unity

Rumi’s teaching aligns with the modern spiritual emphasis on interconnectedness and the unity of all things. It suggests that there is no true separation between the seeker and what is sought – they are part of the same whole. This resonates with concepts like non-dualism and the interconnected web of existence found in many modern spiritual frameworks.

Inner Divinity

The idea implies that what we seek is already within us, echoing the modern spiritual focus on inner divinity and self-realisation. As one interpretation states, “whatever it is you’re looking for, it’s you”. This aligns with teachings about accessing our inner wisdom and higher self.

Law of Attraction

While not exactly the same, Rumi’s concept has similarities to the popular Law of Attraction idea – that our thoughts and intentions can draw things to us. However, Rumi’s teaching has more spiritual depth beyond just manifesting desires.

Mindfulness and Presence

By suggesting that what we seek is already here with us, Rumi’s words encourage present-moment awareness rather than constantly seeking externally. This resonates strongly with modern mindfulness practices.

Trust in the Universe

The teaching instils a sense of trust in a benevolent universe or higher power that is supporting our journey. This aligns with many modern spiritual perspectives on divine guidance and synchronicity.

Self-Knowledge and Inner Work

Rumi’s concept points to the importance of self-knowledge and inner exploration to find what we truly seek, which is central in many contemporary spiritual paths.

Transpersonal Psychology

The idea of an inner connection to something greater than the individual ego aligns with transpersonal psychology approaches that integrate spirituality. In essence, Rumi’s profound insight continues to offer wisdom that feels deeply relevant to modern seekers, bridging ancient mysticism with contemporary spiritual understanding. It encourages us to look within, trust the process of life, and recognise our fundamental connection to what we seek.

How can I apply Rumi’s concept to my daily life

To apply Rumi’s concept of “what you seek is seeking you” to your daily life, consider the following practices:

Cultivate Mindfulness

Incorporating mindfulness into your daily routine can help you become more attuned to opportunities and synchronicities aligned with your desires. Some effective techniques include:
Meditation: Practice daily meditation to quiet your mind and connect with your inner self. This can help you access deeper insights and intuitions about what you truly seek.
Mindful Seeing: Take time each day to observe your surroundings with fresh eyes, as if seeing things for the first time. This can help you notice signs and opportunities you might otherwise miss.
Body Scan: Regularly check in with your physical sensations to become more aware of how your body responds to different situations and ideas. This can provide valuable guidance in pursuing what you seek.

Self-Reflection

Engage in regular self-reflection to gain clarity on your true desires and aspirations:
Journaling: Set aside time each day to write about your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. This can help you identify patterns and uncover deeper truths about what you’re seeking.
Ask Yourself Questions: Regularly ask yourself probing questions like “What are my top priorities?” or “What have I learned from my recent experiences?” This can help you stay aligned with your true desires.

Take Inspired Action

While trusting that what you seek is also seeking you, it’s important to take inspired action:
Follow Your Interests: When something sparks your curiosity or excitement, explore it further. This can lead you to unexpected opportunities and connections.
Share Your Gifts: Focus on giving your unique talents and perspectives to the world.This can attract people and opportunities that resonate with your authentic self.
Dream Big: Allow your imagination to explore grand possibilities without self-imposed limitations. This openness can attract unexpected avenues for fulfilling your desires.

Cultivate Trust and Gratitude

Develop a sense of trust in the process of life and practice gratitude:
Practice Non-Attachment: Let go of rigid expectations about how your desires should manifest. This flexibility allows for serendipitous encounters and unexpected opportunities.
Express Gratitude: Regularly acknowledge and appreciate the good in your life. This positive focus can attract more positive experiences aligned with your desires.By incorporating these practices into your daily life, you can create a mindset and lifestyle that is more receptive to the mutual seeking described in Rumi’s concept. Remember, it’s about balancing active pursuit with open receptivity to the opportunities and synchronicities that life presents.

What are some ways to apply Rumi’s concept of “what you are seeking is seeking you” in my career

Applying Rumi’s concept of “what you are seeking is seeking you” to your career can be a powerful way to align your professional life with your true passions and purpose. Here are some ways to incorporate this philosophy into your career journey:

Cultivate Self-Awareness
Developing a deep understanding of yourself is crucial for aligning your career with your true desires:
Reflect on Your Passions: Regularly take time to identify what truly excites and energizes you in your work. This can help you recognize opportunities that resonate with your authentic self.
Identify Your Strengths: Focus on developing and leveraging your natural talents. When you work in areas that align with your strengths, you’re more likely to excel and find fulfilment.

Trust Your Intuition
Learning to trust your inner guidance can lead you to unexpected but fulfilling career paths:
Listen to Your “Inner GPS”: Pay attention to your gut feelings about career decisions. Often, your intuition can guide you towards opportunities that align with your deeper purpose.
Follow Your Joy: When you experience joy or passion in certain aspects of your work, it’s often a sign that you’re aligned with your purpose. Pursue projects and roles that bring you this sense of fulfilment.

Take Inspired Action
While trusting the process, it’s important to take proactive steps towards your career goals:
Pursue Continuous Learning: Stay open to new knowledge and skills related to your interests. This can prepare you for opportunities that align with your aspirations.
Network Authentically: Connect with people who share your passions or work in fields that interest you. These connections can often lead to unexpected career opportunities.

Embrace Flexibility
Being open to different paths can help you recognise opportunities that align with your true calling:
Remain Open to Possibilities: Don’t limit yourself to a rigid career plan. Be willing to explore unexpected opportunities that resonate with your values and interests.
Trust the Process: Have faith that as you move towards your goals, the right opportunities will present themselves. Focus on the “what” of your career aspirations rather than obsessing over the “how”.

Practice Mindfulness
Incorporating mindfulness into your work life can help you stay attuned to your true desires and recognise aligned opportunities:
Meditate Regularly: Meditation can help you connect with your inner guidance and gain clarity on your career path.
Practice Present-Moment Awareness: Stay fully engaged in your current work, as this can lead to insights and opportunities you might otherwise miss.By applying these principles, you can create a career that not only aligns with your skills and interests but also fulfils your deeper sense of purpose. Remember, as Rumi suggests, when you move towards what truly calls you, the universe often conspires to help you achieve it.

A note on the quote:

“What you are seeking is seeking you as well” attributed directly to Rumi. However, there are similar concepts expressed in Rumi’s poetry that convey a similar meaning. Here are a few relevant points:

1. The most commonly cited Rumi quote that expresses this idea is:

“What you seek is seeking you.”This shorter version appears to be the one most frequently attributed to Rumi across various sources.

2. The full context of this idea is often presented in a longer poem, translated as:

“When I run after what I think I want, my days are a furnace of distress and anxiety.
If I sit in my own place of patience, what I need flows to me, without pain.
From this I understand that what I want also wants me, is looking for me and attracting me.”

3. It’s important to note that many quotes attributed to Rumi on the internet are not always accurately sourced or translated. Some may be modern interpretations or paraphrases of his ideas rather than direct translations of his original Persian poetry.
4. The concept behind this quote aligns with Rumi’s broader spiritual teachings about trusting in divine providence and the interconnectedness of all things.
5. In Sufi tradition, which heavily influenced Rumi’s work, there’s an emphasis on the idea that what we truly seek (often interpreted as spiritual truth or divine love) is also seeking us.

While the exact phrasing “What you are seeking is seeking you as well” may not be found in Rumi’s original works, the sentiment is certainly consistent with his teachings and poetry. The shorter version “What you seek is seeking you” appears to be the most commonly accepted form of this quote attributed to Rumi.

and finally,
“Yesterday I was clever, 
so I wanted to change the world.
Today I am wise,
so I am changing myself.”
Rumi

Introduction: Growth Through Problems and Bliss?

“A problem is a way of creating a future. When plants grow and evolve they do so by way of problems, developing features to avoid predators, to maximise light or to retain moisture.” said Claire Colebrook, philosopher and cultural theorist.

But is there an opposite thought where one can grow through bliss or non-problems?

The notion of growth and evolution through problems is a significant theme in Claire Colebrook’s interpretation of Deleuze’s philosophy. However, the idea of growing through bliss or non-problems is also explored, particularly in other philosophical and spiritual traditions.

Philosophical Perspectives on Growth

Deleuze and the Generative Nature of Problems

In “Difference and Repetition,” Deleuze emphasizes the positive and productive nature of problems. He suggests that problems themselves are full and differentiated positivities, meaning they are inherently creative and generative​​. This perspective aligns with the notion that engaging with problems can lead to growth and development. However, Deleuze also acknowledges the concept of immanence, where the affirmation of life itself, beyond the dialectic of problems and solutions, can be seen as a form of growth through bliss or positive affirmation​​.

Claire Colebrook, in interpreting Deleuze, emphasizes that problems are fundamental to growth and evolution. This perspective suggests that encountering and solving problems is a way to create a future, with organisms (including humans) developing new features or abilities in response to challenges. This idea is grounded in Deleuze’s broader philosophical framework, where problems are seen as generative forces, creating new realities and possibilities.

Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj’s Perspective

In “I Am That,” Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj suggests that the acceptance of both pleasure and pain can lead to a deeper understanding and experience of bliss. He argues that bliss is found in the awareness and acceptance of experiences as they come, whether they are perceived as pleasant or painful. The idea is not to shun pleasure or pursue pain but to embrace both with awareness, which leads to a deeper and more enduring happiness​​.

However, the idea of growing through bliss or non-problems is also worth considering. Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj, for example, offers a different perspective in “I Am That.” He suggests that true bliss comes from the acceptance of both pleasure and pain, not by pursuing one or avoiding the other. By embracing all experiences with awareness, one can achieve a state of enduring happiness and growth. This idea focuses on the internal state of acceptance and awareness, rather than external challenges or problems, as the path to growth.

Alternative Philosophical and Spiritual Approaches

Taoism: The Principle of Wu Wei

Taoism, particularly through Lao Tzu’s teachings, emphasizes “wu wei,” or effortless action. It suggests that a master, by not engaging with the world in forced ways, allows everything to be done by itself in harmony with the natural flow of the universe. This approach to life through bliss and acceptance is central to Taoist philosophy.

Tantra: Integration of the Sacred and Mundane

Tantra, in both Hinduism and Buddhism, teaches that spiritual growth comes from embracing all aspects of life, including sensory experiences, as pathways to spiritual realization. It emphasizes the unity of the sacred and the mundane and the awakening of spiritual energy within the body.

Zen Buddhism: Mindfulness and Presence

Zen Buddhism focuses on mindfulness and living in the present moment, accepting life as it is without judgment. This practice leads to a state of inner peace and acceptance, aligning with the idea of growing through non-problematic thinking.

Stoicism: Acceptance and Inner Peace

Stoicism teaches the acceptance of what is within our control and finding peace regardless of external circumstances. It emphasizes rationality and inner tranquility, suggesting that true contentment comes from within.

Comparative Analysis

Problems vs. Bliss: A Comparative Perspective

While Colebrook and Deleuze emphasize the role of problems in growth and evolution, other philosophical traditions, such as those of Nisargadatta Maharaj, highlight the potential for growth through the acceptance and awareness of bliss and non-problems. This reflects a broader, rhizomatic view of philosophy where multiple pathways and perspectives interconnect and contribute to a more profound understanding of human experience.

Conclusion: A Rhizomatic View of Growth

In essence, while Colebrook and Deleuze highlight the role of problems in fostering growth, other philosophical traditions like those of Nisargadatta Maharaj emphasize the potential for growth through the acceptance and awareness of bliss and non-problems. This illustrates the interconnected and diverse nature of philosophical ideas, where multiple perspectives contribute to a richer understanding of human experience and growth.

Wu Wei: Effortless Action in Taoism

Lao Tzu’s concept of “wu wei,” often translated as “non-doing” or “effortless action,” is a cornerstone of Taoist philosophy. This idea doesn’t advocate for literal inactivity but rather suggests a way of being that aligns with the natural flow of the universe.

“Wu wei” implies acting in harmony with the Tao, the underlying principle that governs the cosmos. It means embracing a mode of action that is spontaneous and unforced, allowing things to unfold naturally without excessive interference or effort. By practicing “wu wei,” one avoids the strain and friction that come from forcing things against their natural course.

In this context, a master who practices “wu wei” is someone who achieves more by doing less. This person understands the rhythm and flow of life and moves with it rather than against it. As a result, their actions are more effective and harmonious, and they achieve their goals with minimal effort. This concept can be linked to the idea of growing through bliss or non-problems, as it emphasizes a state of being where stress and conflict are minimized.

Connecting Wu Wei to the Discussion of Growth

Connecting this to the discussion of growth through problems versus growth through bliss, “wu wei” offers an alternative path. Instead of constantly engaging with and solving problems, one could align with the natural order, allowing solutions to emerge effortlessly. This Taoist approach suggests that growth and fulfillment can arise from a state of peace, acceptance, and minimal interference, resonating with the broader philosophical idea that there are multiple pathways to development and enlightenment.

Rumi on growth

Rumi’s statement, “Christ is the population of the world, and every object as well. There is no room for hypocrisy. Why use bitter soup for healing when sweet water is everywhere?” can be seen as a profound reflection on the inherent divinity and interconnectedness of all things. This mystical perspective resonates with the Taoist principle of “wu wei” and the acceptance of bliss as a path to growth.

When Rumi equates Christ with the entirety of the world and every object within it, he suggests that divinity is not separate from the mundane but is immanent in all aspects of life. This view negates hypocrisy, as it calls for a genuine recognition of the sacred in every person and object, aligning with a state of effortless being and acceptance.

The comparison between bitter soup and sweet water highlights the unnecessary suffering and struggle we often impose on ourselves. Just as Taoism advocates for aligning with the natural flow and finding harmony through “wu wei,” Rumi encourages embracing the sweetness and ease that life offers. This approach to healing and growth suggests that peace, acceptance, and recognizing the divine in all can lead to profound transformation without the need for harsh measures or excessive effort.

In essence, both Rumi and the principles of Taoism propose that growth and fulfillment can arise from a state of harmonious acceptance and effortless action. They point to a way of living that recognizes the inherent divinity and interconnectedness of all things, promoting a path of sweetness and ease rather than conflict and struggle. This perspective enriches our understanding of how diverse philosophical and spiritual traditions converge on the idea of achieving harmony and growth through a deep alignment with the natural and divine order.

Other perspectives

Several philosophical, spiritual, and transpersonal concepts align with the approach of living through bliss, acceptance, and non-problematic thinking. Here are a few notable examples and their major proponents:

1. Zen Buddhism:
   • Concept: Zen emphasises mindfulness, meditation, and the direct experience of reality. It encourages living in the present moment and accepting life as it is without judgment.
   • Proponents: D.T. Suzuki, Thich Nhat Hanh, Shunryu Suzuki.
2. Stoicism:
   • Concept: Stoicism teaches acceptance of the present moment and focusing on what is within our control. It encourages finding peace and contentment regardless of external circumstances.
   • Proponents: Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus, Seneca.
3. Advaita Vedanta:
   • Concept: Advaita Vedanta is a non-dualistic school of Hindu philosophy that teaches the fundamental unity of the self (Atman) and the ultimate reality (Brahman). It emphasizes the realization of this unity through self-inquiry and acceptance.
   • Proponents: Adi Shankaracharya, Ramana Maharshi, Nisargadatta Maharaj.
4. Transpersonal Psychology:
   • Concept: This field explores the spiritual aspects of human experience and emphasizes the potential for growth beyond the ego. It focuses on achieving higher states of consciousness through acceptance and self-awareness.
   • Proponents: Abraham Maslow, Stanislav Grof, Ken Wilber.
5. Existentialism:
   • Concept: Some strands of existentialism emphasize finding meaning and authenticity through acceptance of one’s existence and embracing freedom and responsibility.
   • Proponents: Jean-Paul Sartre, Viktor Frankl, Søren Kierkegaard.
6. Positive Psychology:
   • Concept: Positive psychology focuses on strengths, virtues, and factors that contribute to human flourishing. It emphasizes cultivating positive emotions and acceptance to achieve well-being.
   • Proponents: Martin Seligman, Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, Barbara Fredrickson.
7. Sufism:
   • Concept: Sufism, the mystical branch of Islam, emphasizes the direct experience of God through love, devotion, and acceptance of the divine will. It promotes a state of inner peace and unity with the divine.
   • Proponents: Rumi, Ibn Arabi, Al-Ghazali.

These philosophies and their proponents advocate for an approach to life that emphasizes acceptance, presence, and harmony with the natural flow of existence, often leading to a deeper sense of peace, fulfillment, and awakening.

Tantra Philosophy

The Tantra approach, particularly as it is understood in the spiritual traditions of Hinduism and Buddhism, is another profound method that emphasizes living through acceptance, bliss, and an integrated experience of life. Here’s an overview:

Concept: Tantra is a spiritual tradition that seeks to unify the spiritual and the material, embracing all aspects of life as pathways to spiritual growth and enlightenment. It teaches that the divine exists within the world and within the self, and that spiritual practice involves recognizing and harnessing this divine energy. Unlike some ascetic paths, Tantra often involves practices that engage the senses and the body, recognizing them as vehicles for spiritual experience.

Key Principles:

• Non-Duality: Like Advaita Vedanta, Tantra posits that there is no fundamental separation between the sacred and the mundane, the spiritual and the material.
• Energy and Kundalini: Tantra often focuses on awakening and directing the kundalini energy believed to reside at the base of the spine. This energy, once awakened, rises through the chakras, leading to higher states of consciousness.
• Integration: Rather than renouncing the world, Tantra seeks to integrate and transform all aspects of life, including sexuality, emotions, and sensory experiences, into paths of spiritual realization.
• Ritual and Practice: Tantric practices often involve rituals, mantras, meditation, visualization, and sometimes physical postures or movements designed to align and awaken the spiritual energy within.

Major Proponents and Texts:

• Shiva and Shakti: In Hindu Tantra, the divine is often personified as the union of Shiva (pure consciousness) and Shakti (creative energy). The interplay between these forces is central to Tantric practice.
• Abhinavagupta: A philosopher and mystic of Kashmir Shaivism, Abhinavagupta wrote extensively on Tantric philosophy, emphasizing the experiential realization of the unity of consciousness and energy.
• Padmasambhava: In Tibetan Buddhism, Padmasambhava is credited with bringing Tantric Buddhism to Tibet. His teachings emphasize the transformation of all experiences into opportunities for enlightenment.

Modern Interpretation and Practices:

• Osho (Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh): A contemporary spiritual teacher who integrated Tantric principles into his teachings, emphasizing the acceptance of life’s pleasures as pathways to spiritual awakening.
• Daniel Odier: A contemporary Tantric teacher and author who emphasizes the direct experiential aspects of Tantra, including meditation, yoga, and ritual practices.

Living Through Bliss and Acceptance in Tantra:

Tantra’s approach to life through bliss and acceptance involves recognizing the sacredness of all experiences and using them as tools for spiritual growth. By fully engaging with the present moment and all its aspects—sensual, emotional, and intellectual—Tantra teaches that one can attain a state of unity with the divine. This approach rejects the dichotomy between the sacred and the profane, advocating for a holistic embrace of life as a continuous opportunity for spiritual realization.

In summary, Tantra offers a rich and complex path that aligns well with the idea of growing through acceptance and bliss. It emphasizes the integration of all aspects of life into a unified, sacred experience, encouraging practitioners to find the divine within the mundane and to use every experience as a means of spiritual awakening.

Conclusion: Embracing Multiple Pathways to Harmony and Enlightenment

In exploring the various philosophical and spiritual traditions that emphasize growth through acceptance and bliss, we see a common thread of harmony and effortless living. From Deleuze’s generative nature of problems to Lao Tzu’s principle of “wu wei,” and from the Tantric integration of the sacred and mundane to the mindfulness of Zen Buddhism and the rational acceptance of Stoicism, each tradition offers a unique path to personal and spiritual growth.

These diverse perspectives highlight that there is no single way to achieve fulfillment and enlightenment. Whether through the challenges and solutions of problems or through the peace and acceptance of bliss, each path contributes to a broader understanding of human experience. Embracing these multiple pathways allows us to appreciate the richness and complexity of life, finding harmony in the interconnectedness of all things.

By recognising and integrating these philosophies, we can cultivate a life of balance, where growth is not solely defined by overcoming problems but also by embracing the natural flow of existence. In doing so, we align ourselves with the deeper rhythms of the universe, achieving a state of profound peace and fulfillment.

Final thoughts

Although many traditions suggest that problems and suffering are essential pathways to growth, there is another way—one that embraces bliss, pleasure, and enjoyment. While life itself presents various challenges and problems, we can choose to grow through experiences of joy and fun. By integrating philosophies that highlight acceptance, effortless action, and harmonious living, such as Taoism’s “wu wei,” Tantra’s unity of the sacred and mundane, and Zen Buddhism’s mindfulness, we can cultivate a life that celebrates both the struggles and the blissful moments.

These diverse perspectives show that there is no single route to fulfillment and enlightenment. Embracing multiple pathways allows us to appreciate the richness and complexity of human experience, finding growth and harmony through both challenges and joy. By aligning ourselves with the natural flow of existence, we can achieve a state of profound peace and fulfillment, demonstrating that growth through bliss and fun is not only possible but profoundly enriching.

Tip: Choose Your Path to Growth

Every morning, we have a choice: to grow through the affirmation of life and enjoyment or through engaging with problems and challenges. It’s up to us. By choosing to embrace bliss, pleasure, and fun, we align ourselves with a path of harmonious growth and fulfillment.

As Rumi beautifully said, “Christ is the population of the world, and every object as well. There is no room for hypocrisy. Why use bitter soup for healing when sweet water is everywhere?” Let this reminder guide you to seek the sweet water of life, finding growth through joy and acceptance.