Meaning: This quote by the renowned Iranian filmmaker Mohsen Makhmalbaf reflects on the profound words of Rumi, a 13th-century Persian poet and mystic. Rumi's words convey a powerful metaphorical understanding of truth and its fragmentation in the hands of humanity. To fully grasp the depth and significance of this quote, it is essential to delve into the context of Rumi's philosophy and Makhmalbaf's interpretation.

Rumi, also known as Jalāl ad-Dīn Muhammad Rūmī, was a poet, jurist, Islamic scholar, theologian, and Sufi mystic. His works have transcended time and geographical boundaries, earning him a revered place in the literary and spiritual traditions of both the East and the West. Central to Rumi's teachings is the concept of divine love, unity, and the pursuit of truth. His poetry often employs vivid imagery and allegorical language to convey profound spiritual insights.

In the quote, Rumi presents the truth as a mirror in the hands of God, symbolizing its pure and undistorted nature. However, the mirror falls and shatters into countless pieces, each fragment representing a partial and fragmented understanding of truth. This imagery encapsulates the human experience of seeking truth and the limitations of individual perspectives. The broken mirror serves as a metaphor for the fragmented and subjective nature of human perception.

Makhmalbaf's inclusion of this quote in his work reflects his engagement with philosophical and spiritual themes. As a prominent figure in Iranian cinema, Makhmalbaf's films often grapple with complex social, political, and existential questions. By invoking Rumi's words, Makhmalbaf invites his audience to contemplate the nature of truth and the human propensity to claim absolute knowledge based on limited perceptions.

The quote suggests that when the mirror of truth shatters, everyone takes a piece of it and believes it to be the whole truth. This highlights the inherent subjectivity and partiality of human understanding. Each individual's perspective represents a mere fragment of the larger truth, leading to diverse and often conflicting interpretations. This fragmentation of truth is a universal phenomenon, transcending cultural, religious, and geographical boundaries.

Furthermore, Rumi's words also point towards the inherent humility and fallibility of human knowledge. By acknowledging that each person possesses only a fragment of the truth, the quote encourages introspection and openness to diverse viewpoints. It serves as a reminder of the limitations of individual understanding and the necessity of humility in the pursuit of truth.

Makhmalbaf's decision to attribute this quote to Rumi underscores the enduring relevance of Rumi's teachings across centuries. It also serves as a testament to the universality of Rumi's insights, which continue to inspire and resonate with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Makhmalbaf's choice to incorporate Rumi's wisdom into his work aligns with a broader trend of artists and thinkers drawing from spiritual and philosophical traditions to illuminate contemporary issues.

In conclusion, the quote by Rumi, as cited by Mohsen Makhmalbaf, encapsulates profound insights into the nature of truth and human perception. Rumi's metaphor of the shattered mirror serves as a poignant reminder of the fragmented and subjective nature of human understanding. By exploring this quote within the context of Rumi's philosophy and Makhmalbaf's artistic vision, we gain a deeper appreciation for its enduring relevance and universal resonance. It challenges us to embrace humility, openness, and a recognition of the limitations of our individual perspectives in the pursuit of truth.