Who was Shams Tabrizi?

Filmed in Konya, Türkiye, at one of the sites traditionally believed to be the resting place of Shams al-Din Tabrizi, this talk explores the life, teachings, and enduring legacy of the mysterious saint who transformed the life of Jalāl al-Dīn Rūmī. Baraka Blue reflects on Shams' love of obscurity, his uncompromising sincerity, and the profound spiritual insight that enabled him to recognize Rūmī's immense potential. Through stories, teachings, and remembrance, we explore the extraordinary relationship between master and disciple and how a single encounter became the catalyst for one of the greatest spiritual legacies in Islamic history. The talk also delves into timeless themes found in the teachings of Shams and Rūmī: humility, neediness before God, spiritual poverty (faqr), and the paradox that true elevation comes through surrender. Through a beloved story attributed to Shams, we are reminded that what we bring to the Divine is not our perfection, but our need.