The Scribe’s Fall, the Deaf Man’s Error, and the Illusion of Spiritual Pride | Chapter 20 of The Masnavi
Rumi on Pride, Borrowed Light, and the Fall of Angels | Chapter 20 of The Masnavi (Book One) Chapter 20 of The Masnavi offers one of Rumi’s most penetrating critiques of spiritual arrogance, false reasoning, and the illusion of self-derived holiness. Through tragic parables, theological reflections, and satirical storytelling, Rumi demonstrates that even those closest to divine light can fall when they mistake reflection for source. This chapter serves as a sober warning for seekers: without humility, sincerity, and constant reliance on God, even angels stumble. For a complete walkthrough of these narratives, watch the video summary below: The Prophet’s Scribe and the Illusion of Borrowed Light Rumi begins with the story of a scribe who wrote down revelations for the Prophet. Experiencing a moment of divine radiance, he falsely believed he had become equal to the Prophet himself. This moment of spiritual pride destroyed him. Rumi’s teaching is clear: a mirror that reflec...