Rabindranath Tagore’s poetic vision through the lens of Sufism: Exploring the mystical union of love, soul, and the divine

Rabindranath Tagore's poetry synthesizes spiritual philosophy and artistic expression, using Sufi concepts of divine love (Ishq), self-annihilation (Fana), and oneness of being (Tawhid) to explore mystical union between the soul and the Divine. Close readings of Gitanjali, The Gardener, and Song Offerings show how Tagore transforms individual emotion into universal spiritual experience, transcending religious boundaries. Love serves as the bridge between humanity and divinity, dissolving distinctions between man, nature, and God. Tagore emerges as a global spiritual poet whose works echo the human yearning for union with the Infinite, embodying a mystical dialogue between the finite and the eternal.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Rabindranath Tagore’s poetry embodies a profound synthesis of spiritual philosophy and artistic expression, where the essence of Sufism becomes a central lens to understand his vision of divine love and unity. This paper explores how Tagore’s poetic universe resonates with Sufi concepts of Ishq (divine love), Fana (self-annihilation), and Tawhid (oneness of being), revealing an intense quest for mystical union between the soul and the Divine. Through a close reading of his seminal works such as Gitanjali, The Gardener, and Song Offerings, the study examines how Tagore transforms individual emotion into a universal spiritual experience. His lyrical meditations transcend religious boundaries, articulating a philosophy where love serves as the bridge between humanity and divinity. The research highlights how Tagore’s Sufi-like surrender and devotion reflect his belief in the spiritual harmony of all existence, a vision that dissolves distinctions between man, nature, and God. By aligning his poetic sensibility with Sufi mysticism, Tagore emerges as a global spiritual poet whose works echo the timeless human yearning for union with the Infinite. The present paper aims to reinterpret Tagore’s poetic vision as an embodiment of the mystical dialogue between the finite and the eternal, revealing how his art becomes a prayer. The researchers further write that Tagore’s poetry embodies an intricate fusion of spiritual, philosophical, and aesthetic dimensions that reflect both Eastern mysticism and universal humanism.