Mohammad Barrangi

"The 'Bird Conversations,' also known as 'The Conference of the Birds,' are among the most famous texts of Sufism, the Islamic mysticism. More than any other author, Fariduddin Attar (died around 1221 AD in Nishapur/Persia) has expressed the human quest for transcendence beyond earthly existence. The wise hoopoe, who once served King Solomon, gathers all the birds around him to encourage them to embark on a journey to their mysterious king, Simurgh, at the end of the world. He himself had already failed, but together they might succeed, so he argues. The birds are initially enthusiastic, as their deep longing to meet the legendary Simurgh finally finds fulfillment. However, the more the hoopoe speaks of the dangers and challenges of the journey, the more the courage of the birds wanes, and many withdraw under various pretexts. Nevertheless, enough birds remain to set out on the journey. Seven valleys must be crossed, each more dangerous and life-threatening than the last...".