Music and dance in the work and life of Rumi (1207–73)

“The music of the samā’ inspired Rumi’s thousands of poems which he often dictated during mystical ecstasy. For Rumi beauty in this world was an imprint and proof of the Divine; he regarded poetry, music and sacred dance as a way in which the beauty of form could attain the Formless. During samā’ ceremonies Sufi poetry is recited accompanied by music and dance.”