Neither has beauty understood nor has love truly known; the entire world lies trampled beneath the feet of humble dust-dwellers like us.
In this striking verse, the poet speaks from the perspective of a humble dervish or true lover who sits on the bare earth, outwardly destitute but spiritually sovereign. Neither the vain pride of beauty nor the conventional notions of love can fathom the depth of someone who has abandoned all worldly desire. When you detach yourself completely from material pursuits, the entire world and its grandeur become so insignificant that they seem beneath your feet.
Interpretation note: meanings and explanations may be AI-assisted and should not replace a primary text or scholarly edition. See the editorial policy.
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