This being human is a guest house.
Every morning, a new arrival.
A joy, a depression, a meanness,
some momentary awareness comes
as an unexpected visitor.
Welcome and entertain them all
Even if they’re a crowd of sorrows,
who violently sweep your house
empty of its furniture,
still, treat each guest honourably
He may be clearing you out
for some new delight.
The dark thought, the shame, the malice,
meet them at the door laughing,
and invite them in.
Be grateful for whoever comes,
because each has been sent
as a guide from beyond.
[Rumi]
About the author
Jalaluddin Rumi (1207-1273) was a renowned Persian poet, Islamic scholar, and Sufi mystic. Born in present-day Afghanistan, Rumi’s family later settled in Konya, Turkey, where he spent most of his life. He is best known for his extensive collection of mystical poetry, which explores themes of love, spirituality, and the human condition. Rumi’s works, such as the Masnavi and the Divan-e Shams-e Tabrizi, have been widely translated and continue to inspire readers across the globe.
Rumi wrote The Guest House in the 13th century, during a period of great spiritual growth and enlightenment. The poem is believed to have been composed in Konya, where Rumi lived and taught. It was likely shared orally among his followers and students before being compiled into written collections after his death. The poem’s inclusion in Rumi’s larger body of work is a testament to its enduring wisdom and relevance to the human experience.
The meaning of the poem
The Guest House is a powerful metaphor for the human experience, encouraging us to approach life’s challenges with openness, acceptance, and gratitude. Rumi likens human beings to a guest house, which is visited each day by various emotions and experiences, both pleasant and difficult. By personifying these experiences as guests, Rumi invites us to welcome them all, recognizing that each has something to teach us.
The poem acknowledges that life’s hardships, such as sorrow, shame, and malice, can feel overwhelming and destructive. However, Rumi suggests that even these challenging experiences serve a purpose, potentially clearing the way for new growth and insight. By meeting these “guests” with laughter and invitation, we can disarm their power over us and learn from the lessons they offer.
Central to the poem’s message is that every experience, whether joyful or painful, is a “guide from beyond.” This spiritual perspective encourages readers to trust in the larger unfolding of their lives, recognizing that even the most difficult moments can lead to personal transformation and a deeper understanding of oneself and the world.
The poem is a call to radical acceptance and trust. It invites readers to embrace the fullness of their human experience, acknowledging that growth and wisdom often arise from the most unexpected and challenging places. By cultivating an attitude of openness and gratitude, we can easily navigate life’s ups and downs, recognizing the inherent value in every experience that comes our way.
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