Understanding current and historical psychological concepts of self and ego, including those of depth psychology, object relations, and Jungian views, with indigenous concepts of self and ego in Sufism.
This presentation will explore the interface between depth psychology and Sufsm, seeking to build bridges of understanding between the two. I will unfold the paradigm of the Ego-Self axis in the work of C. G. Jung and in the life of Rumi, the mystic of 12th century and his relationship with his beloved mentor, Shams Tabrizi, in the context of ongoing process of individuation that involves creating a state in which continuous dialogue occurs between the conscious ego and the unconscious, as well as between inner and outer experiences. In the process, ego consciousness moves out of and beyond its established norms to a broader perspective of self-understanding and wholeness.
Rumi’s mentor and beloved, Shams Tabrizi, who appeared in Rumi’s life as a guide, remained largely unidentified and unrecognized until now. I will show that Rumi’s encounter with this stranger suggests an initiation.
