Rumi, in his illuminating Mathnawi V (lines 1026-1050), offers a profound reflection on the afterlife. He describes how individuals during the journey of life encounter three companions, each representing a focus in the material world:
“Prayer is not enough. You must do something.
Three companions for you: number one, what you own. He won't even leave the house for some danger you might be in. He stays inside.
Number two, your good friend. He at least comes to the funeral. He stands and talks at the gravesite. No further.
The third companion, what you do, your work, goes down into the death to be there with you, to help. Take deep refuge with that companion, beforehand." (Translated by Coleman Barks)
These lines introduce us to the "three companions," each symbolizing a different aspect of our earthly existence. The first companion, representing our possessions, reminds us of the fleeting nature of material wealth. It can bring comfort and ease but will not go beyond the physical boundaries.
The second companion, representing our companionships, echoes the importance of human connection in our lives. However, as meaningful and good as relationships are, they end at our last breath.
The "companion of good works," stands apart with a unique significance. This beautifully captures the spirit of selfless service, compassion, and spiritual devotion. It signifies the choices we make to contribute positively to the world, leaving a lasting impact beyond our own lives.
Rumi's "companion of good works" resonates deeply with the message of the prophet Micah. In Micah 6:6-8, we are called to "do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God." These principles, much like the "companion of good works," underscore the importance of righteous action, compassion, and a connection with the Divine.
This powerful imagery emphasizes the enduring value of a life dedicated to good works. It reminds us that while possessions and even friendships may fade, the impact of our positive actions continues to resonate, shaping our legacy and contributing to the well-being of the community long after we are gone.
By embracing the spirit of the "companion of good works" and living by the principles articulated by Micah, we can create a lasting legacy that extends far beyond our own lifespan, leaving the world a better place than we found it.
Now, let's journey from the poetic verses of Rumi to the powerful words of the prophet Micah. In Micah 6:6-8, we find a profound echo heard in Rumi's "friend of good works":
"With what shall I come before the Lord,
and bow myself before God on high?
Shall I come before him with burnt offerings,
with calves a year old?
Will the Lord be pleased with thousands of rams,
with ten thousands of rivers of oil?
Shall I give my firstborn for my transgression,
the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?”
He has told you, O mortal, what is good;
and what does the Lord require of you
but to do justice, and to love kindness,
and to walk humbly with your God?
Here, Micah outlines three fundamental requirements that God asks of humanity:
* To do justice: This calls for fairness, equity, and righteousness in our dealings with others, and ensuring that the underprivileged or those that have little maintain their access and options for themselves and families.
* To love kindness: This emphasizes compassion, empathy, and active love towards our fellow beings.
* To walk humbly with your God: This speaks to a life of humility, recognizing our place in the grand scheme of things and living in accordance with divine guidance.
These three actions resonate deeply with Rumi's "friend of good works." Just as these companions guide us toward virtuous actions and a life dedicated to something greater than ourselves, Micah's words call us to focus on us to embody justice, kindness, and humility in our daily lives. Both Rumi and the prophet Micah remind us that true fulfillment lies not in just possessing pleasures, material wealth, or being in awesome communities, but in a life that includes a dedication to good works and a connection with the Divine.