I regard not the outside and the words

by Mevlana Jelaluddin Rumi

English version by E. H. Whinfield
Original Language Persian/Farsi & Turkish

I regard not the outside and the words,
I regard the inside and the state of the heart.
I look at the heart if it be humble,
Though the words may be the reverse of humble.
Because the heart is substance, and words accidents,
Accidents are only a means, substance is the final cause.
How long will thou dwell on words and superficialities?
A burning heart is what I want; consort with burning!
Kindle in the heart the flame of love,
And burn up utterly thoughts and fine expressions.

-- from The Mathnawi: Rumi, Translated by E. H. Whinfield

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