This quote is a profound statement about the importance of spiritual enlightenment and detachment from worldly desires.The ‘Light’ Rumi refers to isn’t physical light; instead, it symbolizes knowledge, wisdom, and spiritual enlightenment. according to this outlook, only through gaining wisdom and understanding can one truly nourish their soul.
The second part of the quote suggests that by letting go of material needs and desires, we can achieve freedom.This doesn’t necessarily mean we should abandon all our possessions or refuse physical comforts; rather it encourages us not to be enslaved by them or let them dictate our happiness or self-worth.
Applying this idea in today’s world might seem challenging given the materialistic society we live in where success is often measured by wealth and possessions. However, it could be interpreted as a call for balance between our physical needs and spiritual growth. It encourages us to seek knowledge, wisdom, personal growth while also appreciating what we have without becoming overly obsessed with accumulating more.
In terms of personal advancement, this idea promotes introspection – looking within ourselves for contentment rather than seeking it externally. it urges us to cultivate inner peace through understanding ourselves better (the ‘Light’) which ultimately leads to genuine happiness that isn’t dependent on external factors (being set ‘Free’).
So while there’s nothing wrong with striving for success or enjoying material comforts per se’, they shouldn’t become so meaningful that they overshadow our spiritual development or become barriers preventing us from experiencing true freedom – the freedom that comes from knowing oneself deeply and being at peace with who we are.