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The symbolism of pictures can be understood in different ways. Here, the white circle can represent the
soul, perfection, or protection. It can be understood to echo the idea of the full moon, associated often
with the holy Prophet Muhammed. It may even signify the Nur-i-Muhammed (sometimes translated as the
logos) the first manifestation of divinity.
There is a pinkish glow emanating from the centre of the circle and this could be seen as symbolising the
purified heart. In Sufism the heart provides the energy and drive for the individual. *
Above the 'heart' the top band of the picture contains a semicircle arching over the white circle and can
be seen to represent the sphere of the purified intellect. It is this that commands and controls the energy
of the heart, which in turn controls the impulses of the bodily soul - when they are all in true relationship to
one another.
Inside that half circle the 'ideas' or angelic inspirations (stars) are in line and order, outside they are in a
more random pattern.
In the lower part of the picture there is a plane projecting backwards, apparently into space. The coloured
part of this plane may suggest the bodily soul or possibly materiality. Where it overlaps with the circle it
appears pure white - purified substance. From this arises a figure - it is left ambiguous but is based on
the pose of a Mevlevi dancer representing the idea of oneness. It also evokes, perhaps, the idea of a
candle melting. This figure reaches up to the top band and thus unites the purified physical self or material
world with the purified heart and intellect or spiritual world.
The night sky has associations with the moon, mentioned above, but is also used to symbolise the idea of
Reality that lies beyond symbolism and images.
Other features are structural and decorative but are intended to convey order, serenity, and peace.
JMZ
soul, perfection, or protection. It can be understood to echo the idea of the full moon, associated often
with the holy Prophet Muhammed. It may even signify the Nur-i-Muhammed (sometimes translated as the
logos) the first manifestation of divinity.
There is a pinkish glow emanating from the centre of the circle and this could be seen as symbolising the
purified heart. In Sufism the heart provides the energy and drive for the individual. *
Above the 'heart' the top band of the picture contains a semicircle arching over the white circle and can
be seen to represent the sphere of the purified intellect. It is this that commands and controls the energy
of the heart, which in turn controls the impulses of the bodily soul - when they are all in true relationship to
one another.
Inside that half circle the 'ideas' or angelic inspirations (stars) are in line and order, outside they are in a
more random pattern.
In the lower part of the picture there is a plane projecting backwards, apparently into space. The coloured
part of this plane may suggest the bodily soul or possibly materiality. Where it overlaps with the circle it
appears pure white - purified substance. From this arises a figure - it is left ambiguous but is based on
the pose of a Mevlevi dancer representing the idea of oneness. It also evokes, perhaps, the idea of a
candle melting. This figure reaches up to the top band and thus unites the purified physical self or material
world with the purified heart and intellect or spiritual world.
The night sky has associations with the moon, mentioned above, but is also used to symbolise the idea of
Reality that lies beyond symbolism and images.
Other features are structural and decorative but are intended to convey order, serenity, and peace.
JMZ