New Projects

PSALM is committed to uniquely luminous artistic projects without regard to place, religion, race or ethnicity, that celebrate the one-ness of mankind, and reveal the beauty of the universal light within humanity. Unlike traditional art/cultural organizations, we specifically seek those expressions of sacred beauty which join us all in an affirmation of unity, rather than that which fundamentally sets us apart, in a celebration of diversity.

The Full Circle Project

How is it possible that a 13th century Sufi mystical poet by the name of Jelaluddin Rumi has won the honor of having 2007 declared, “International Year of RUMI” by the United Nations Education, Science & Cultural Organization? 

The Philadelphia Society for Art, Literature & Music has been working on an answer to that question for some time to give people a first-hand opportunity to understand what all the fuss is about.

It turns out that Jelaluddin Rumi is now the most widely read poet in the United States thanks in large part to the many translations of Rumi’s ecstatic poetry compiled by America’s foremost interpreters and artists, Coleman Barks, Kabir Helminski, Michael Green and other eminent scholars. What they created has become immensely successful at awakening new readers of Rumi’s poetry here in the West to the depth and beauty of his ideas.

In many Central Asian countries such as Turkey, Afghanistan and Iran, Jelaluddin Rumi has been a cultural icon for eight hundred years. His poems have been and are today sung and read by countless numbers of devoted admirers of “Mevlana” (master) as he is also called. The story of Rumi’s life, as it is often recounted, was that he had a fateful meeting with an itinerant wise man, Shams of Tabriz, who became Rumi’s constant companion and greatest teacher. Rumi is said to have been utterly transformed by his friendship with Shams and the once revered scholar who had many dedicated pupils at the university in Konya, Turkey became an “ecstatic” who devoted himself almost exclusively to creating countless “Love Poems to the Divine”.

Rumi’s love poems were not songs of devotion for any person as is sometimes mistakenly thought. Rather his works were all written in praise of, and in longing for his soul’s union with the divine source of all life. Rumi’s words and observations about the nature of the human soul and its longing to reunite, while in this life, with his creator are among the most beautiful and profoundly sacred poems ever penned.

Although he was a devout Muslim, Rumi became a “Sufi”, or a seeker of the direct experience of Divine union. A Sufi is one who studies the mystical aspects of Islam, which are claimed by the fully awakened masters of the Sufi path to be the common property of all humanity, and ever present in the world through sequential Divine revelations to all peoples. Through his teachings, Rumi eventually founded the Mevlevi Order of Dervishes in what is now called Turkey. The followers of this order practice an extraordinary physical technique of devotion known in the East as “turning” and also called “whirling” here in the West. In this form of worship the Sufi practitioner or “dervish” focuses his concentration on attaining union with the divine by spinning his entire body in one place, at great speeds, often for many hours at a time.

As remarkable as it may seem, today Rumi’s poetry has found a vast audience here in the West. Rumi’s stature as a masterful teacher of the principles of moderate Islam has made him one of the most accessible figures in Islam largely because the themes within his poetry revolve around many of the eternal philosophical issues which mankind has wrestled with, “Why am I here? Who is my creator? What is my relationship to my creator?”

PSALM’s Full Circle Project is an in-depth look at the legacy of Rumi as it has come to be understood by contemporary masters of the Sufi traditions from “the East and “the West”. This trans-cultural exploration began with a live concert entitled, One House, Many Doors, in Philadelphia as a celebration of Rumi’s 800th Birthday during UNESCO’s “International Year of Rumi “. The concert was co-produced with the Turkish Cultural Foundation in coordination with Penn Presents of the University of Pennsylvania, at the Annenberg Center’s Zellerbach Theater on December 14 and 15, 2007. The event was sponsored by the Philadelphia Dialogue Forum, the Middle East Center of Penn, the Turkish American Friendship Society of the US, the Global Dialogue Forum and the Margaret Gest Center for the Trans-Cultural Study of Religion.

The gala performance, witnessed by sell-out audiences on two evenings, wase hosted by noted author of many volumes of the poetry of Rumi and professor-emeritus at the University of Georgia, Coleman Barks, who treated the audience to dramatic readings from his collected works of Rumi to the musical accompaniment of world class musicians David Darling on cello and Glen Velez on world percussion.

The evenings culminated with an extraordinary cultural experience. The Whirling Dervishes of Istanbul conducted the 800th annual Sema in honor of Rumi’s Birthday. This sacred event is traditionally held in Turkey, and we are most fortunate indeed to have hosted this program in Philadelphia, the birthplace of America, and the city of brotherly love. Master musicians together with “Semazen” demonstrated the physical technique of “turning” in a ceremony of ancient ritual that transported the audience through a direct experience of that which is most sacred in the heart of Islam. To honor this unique occurance, The mayor of the City of Philadelphia proclaimed December 17th, "Rumi Day."

Academic symposia, "Rumi in the 21st Century", were offered for free and open to the public at UPENN and Haverford College, featuring well known international authors and scholars of the Rumi tradition, Coleman Barks, Michaela Ozelsel, Jamal Rahman, Sheikh Ahmed Tijani Ben Omar and Ashok Gangadean. The actress Tamir performed her sacred theater piece "The Way of the Heart", stories and poems of Rumi. HuDost presented a mini-set of "country & eastern" music, and Nasrin Marzban read selections of the Mathnawi, Rumi's magnum opus, in Persian.

PSALM’s Full Circle Project however only begins with the presentation of, One House, Many Doors.

The second phase of the project is the creation of, Let Beauty Now Be What We Do a major documentary film that will record the live concert and couple that experience with a series of interviews among those who will travel from around the globe to present their mastery of these traditions at what is sure to be one of the most exciting commemorative events to be held in any country during UNESCO’s,” International Year of Rumi”.

Let Beauty Now Be What We Do will be an enduring touchstone, a film of both high art and factual depth that will serve as a first line educational resource to be made available on DVD, for television broadcast and theatrical release in the United States and worldwide.

As the documentary will point out the origins of Rumi’s tradition pre-dates his founding of the Mevlevi order. Sufism as a cultural phenomenon throughout the world offers a very clear and deep understanding of the heart of Islam. For PSALM the overarching purpose of this multi-year project is to serve as a bridge of bilateral understanding on the short straight path to peace between what has been called "Islam" and "The West". The entire project was created in response to the alarming gulf of fear, hatred and destruction which threatens to grow wider each day. The film will disclose that this gulf is something that is fueled by misinformation and a misunderstanding of the belief systems at the core of fundamental Western values and of moderate Islam.

The film project makes plain the tragic irony that while Islam is now seen by many as the enemy of Western Civilization (and vice-versa), there exists an alternative to be found in Rumi’s peaceful path called "Sufism", within Islam, whose message may prove to be an elegant solution to the a-priori problems of a dangerous and unstable co-existence that people of all nations now face. Succinctly stated Let Beauty Now Be What We Do concludes, that which is sacred is common to all and what lies at the heart of Islam is what lies at the heart of all religions which can also be found within the heart of every human being.

It is the hypothesis of the Full Circle Project that in the long and peaceful tradition of Sufism which the works of Rumi have engendered in the cultures of both the “East” and the “West” there can be found a common point of unity shared among Sufi learning academies or, “tariquats” around the world. That unifying focus is the conscious opening of a single point located within the form of the human body. This point is sometimes called the “inner heart” or “secret garden.” When this point is enlivened, the transformative practices can induce a direct experience of the essential unity of humankind which transcends individual and cultural boundaries, ultimately leading to the enduring condition known as “the fully awakened human being.”

The international journey of cultural exploration that is proposed for, Let Beauty Now Be What We Do will undertake to test whether or not this hypothesis which claims that the practice of theses physical techniques belonging to diverse orders of Sufism induces a direct experience of union with the Divine as Rumi’s poetry suggests is correct.

Through numerous interviews that begin with the artists who contribute to the live concert to be held in Philadelphia next December more interviews will be conducted in Turkey, Iran, and Middle East, and across North America among those who teach and practice these techniques.

Each interview will consist of a set of questions including, what can today’s Sufi masters tell us about their own work on Rumi’s, “path of return”? What do they say about their choice to dedicate their lives to the pursuit of practicing the various sacred techniques of their traditions? What do Rumi’s “children” say about the direct experience they have as they practice attaining this possibility of union with the divine, and what things, based on their direct experience, can they tell us about the knowledge which Shams explained to Rumi that opened the fountain of creativity within him which resonates so powerfully with so many people eight hundred years after their meeting? On the, “Path of Return” it is said that beauty is the original language understood by every human heart. By discussing the ritual practices of their individual academies what things can be learned about the common language of beauty that humanity has somehow lost the use of?

What the Full Circle Project proposes may seem antithetical to some practitioners of these traditions and yet the understanding of that point of unity which Sufi’s are said to attain through their devotional practices is the very essence of their focus. The information which the film hopes to collect has, over the centuries, become a “secret” which can no longer remain hidden at a time when the truth it contains may well prove to be a key to the safe and enduring future of humanity. The “secret” is very simply that we are all born with the wondrous gifts and transcendent grace that flows from the Divine which Rumi spoke so eloquently of eight centuries ago. Shams touched that physical point in Rumi where “that which is sacred” can be found within the human form. If we can gain an understanding of our physical being and then open that point to this reality in our lives we will possess an understanding of all the wisdom we will ever need about  how our lives and our world can be transformed by this common unity.

How does the journey of PSALM’s Full Circle of trans-cultural exploration end?  If Rumi may be said to be, “the rose of Islam” then Shams would be understood as the fragrance of that rose which belongs to and remains alive within all humanity. It is only through direct experience, through the opened heart of another human being that love can be known, that the light of divinity can be seen and the unity of all life can be realized.

The fragrance of the rose has been preserved and is available to us long after the rose has faded and returned to the earth from which it once sprang. What Shams gave to his pupil is ours today as well. All humanity may partake of the ecstatic state which Rumi inhabited. The inspiration which fired Rumi’s imagination and has caught the imagination of countless generations of his followers can be attained today. The light of truth exists beyond all differences the world imposes and beyond the ravages of space and time. This is the point of unity among all lives. This is the source of peace which the world has forgotten. Islam means that deep peace which unites us all in the eternal love of our creator – the awareness of this truth is the fragrance of a true Human Being.

The budget for this important project is roughly 1.5 million dollars. Funding is actively being solicited world-wide. Grants from individuals, corporate and philanthropic entities are welcome to underwrite administrative and production expenses. Details are available for interested principals. Please contact us at info@thepsalm.org.

Recent Projects

"Voices From the Well of Peace"
A Celebration of Hope and Beauty

Haverford College hosted an important celebration of interfaith dialogue with a Sufi perspective on Sunday October 2nd. Over 200 people of all faiths and spiritual traditions joined in the message of hope and beauty offered through film, music, poetry, dance, dialogue, performance and much more. The event was presented by The Philadelphia Society for Art, Literature & Music in Association with The Global Dialogue Institute at Haverford College and The Middle East Center of The University of Pennsylvania.

The highlight of this festive, multi-media symposium was the East Coast premiere of "Rumi-Turning Ecstatic", a new film documenting one woman's odyssey of spiritual awakening, with a special guest appearance by the film's star and co-producer, Tina Petrova. Jelaluddin Rumi was a Persian Sufi mystic from the 13th century whose inspired poetry is read widely around the world, and now even outsells Shakespeare in the United States. Rumi spoke at great length about the singular unity of the human family, and although he was a devout Muslim, embraced all people without distinction.

Live musical performances included heart-opening original “new-grass” music by the amazing “Illumination Band” from their new CD of songs based on the poetry of Rumi. Master musicians, Aliyar and Levent Firat from Turkey performed soul-stirring “Ilahis” or sacred music on traditional Middle Eastern instruments. Sheikha Ayesha Jeanne Lauenborg lead participants from the audience in “Dances of Universal Peace.” Deepak Kumar sang the songs of Kabir accompanied by harmonium, tabla and flute. Singer/songwriter, Näthan Gangadean performed original contemporary devotional love songs as well. 

Leading voices for personal transformation and global responsibility addressed essential human unity against the backdrop of religious strife and hostility. A new dialogue was opened to introduce and explore the gentle path of Sufism found within moderate Islam and celebrate the common threads of hope and beauty that are at the foundation of the Abrahamic Religions of Christianity, Judaism and Islam. The Sufi perspective places emphasis the unifying message of these great faith traditions – wisdom, love, compassion and harmony. The plenary keynote address was delivered by Jonathan Granoff, Esq., President of the global Security Institute and respected advocate for world peace, who spoke on the principles of essential unity and the common wealth entrusted to humankind.

Professor Ashok Gangadean, Ph.D., introduced Deep Dialogue as a means to establish authentic communication and shared understanding between individuals and groups, with a focus on the Semitic great faith traditions. He lead the principal session in deep dialogue with Imam Muhammad Abdur-Razzaq of the Bawa Muhaiyaddeen Fellowship, Rabbi Marcia Prager of Temple P’nai Or and the Rev. Hank Galganowicz of Holy Innocents St. Paul’s Episcopal Church. The divergent streams of religious thought were traced back to a common source, the well-spring that forms the spiritual ground of being for all humanity, the panel sought to establish a position of a priori understanding from which to seek a broader unity with our fellow man. The experience helped people to come to a deeper understanding and appreciation of the diversity of spiritual expression that informs our lives in so many ways, enriching our community, and furthering efforts to create inner as well as outer peace.

Los Angeles based author and noted spiritual teacher, Dr. Kabir Helminski addressed the need for conscious social and political transformation through the awakened human heart. Helminski and his wife Camille, lead a “Zikr” (remembrance of God ceremony) adapted for a western audience’s participation. A deeply moving performance of turning by the “Whirling Dervishes” transported the audience to the mystic realms of ancient Anatolia.

Celebrated artist and author, Michael Green was on hand for the exciting book release and signing of "One Song," the long awaited sequel to "The Illuminated Rumi", a New York Times top-ten best seller.

Noted poet, Daniel Abdal-Hayy Moore read (and performed) from his new books "Mars and Beyond", and "Laughing Buddha Weeping Sufi."

An open bazaar offered original paintings and artwork by Amira Dvorah and Michael Green, rugs and tapestries from Kashmir Dream, books of the authors by Barnes and Noble, CDs by the musical artists, handcrafts by Ayesha, with gourmet vegetarian/kosher Chinese food, by Singapore Restaurant served throughout the event as well.

Voices from the Well of Peace will become an annual event that highlights and celebrates the resonance of the divine found within each of the world's religions and sacred traditions.

View the slide show of the event

"Rumi - Turning Ecstatic"
Independent Film

PSALM supported the production of this docu-drama by actress/producer Tina Petrova, and producer Steven Roloff for Vision TV, by funding the work produced by VirtuaLux Digital Studio.

The film was broadcast by the Canadian Broacast Corporation, and is now in international distribution and is available on DVD.

VirtuaLux designed the film's widely acclaimed website, www.rumi-turningecstatic.com, provided graphic design and artwork, and produced and recorded original music for the film soundtrack.

PSALM hosted a gala Benefit Concert in November 2004 at St. Martin in the Fields Church in Chestnut hill, Pennsylvania. The theme for the evening was "Let Beauty Now Be What We Do." Music from around the world was enjoyed by one and all.

"Congratulations and thanks for such a wonderful event. I feel very blessed to have heard some of the best and most moving music I've ever heard in my life. The food and everything else was superb."

View the slide show of the event

"Holy War"

A Recitation with Music of René Daumal's Prose-Poem of 1940, followed by audience discussion.

Priscilla Smith, Roger Lipsey, Chris Wertenbaker, Dolphi Wertenbaker and Jeff Greene presented the greatest modern expression of the ancient idea of internal, holy war - the "unseen warfare" that many traditions regard as the surest basis for peace at Haverford College on December 10th, 2005.

Rene Daumal, best known for his allegorical novel of spiritual search "Mount Analogue", wrote this prose poem during the second world war, describing the inner struggle towards consciousness and conscience which is the true meaning of holy war.

Roger Lipsey, a noted author, introduced the poem and placed it in the context of the spiritual tradition - Jewish, Christian and Islamic - of holy war. Priscilla Smith, an actress who starred in the pioneering productions of the director Andrei Serban and more recently has taught acting at Columbia University, recited the poem. Accompanying her with music was Chris Wertenbaker on the oud, the Middle Eastern lute, and Jeff Greene on several middle eastern instruments. Dolphi Wertenbaker, trained in Indian dance and rhythm, is the ensemble's drummer, and expressed the beginning of the poem using movement and mudras. Following the presentation, Jamey Reilly and James George moderated a conversation between the audience and the participants.

Co-sponsored by PSALM, the Gurdjieff Foundation and the Global Dialogue Institute of Haverford College.

Ongoing Events 

The PSALM Salon

The Salon invites us to join in an intimate celebration of the miraculous resonance of spirit found in the living arts.

The Salon has been called the best listening space in Philadelphia. It features established and emerging artists of exceptional talent in a comfortable residential space with an intimate 8'x16' stage, professional stage lighting, and top quality sound system. Seating is limited to about 60 guests. It is the perfect venue to experience musical and spoken word performance, and is loved by artists and audiences alike. Light refreshements are served, and guests are welcome to bring something to share. There are no advance tickets available. Regular announcements are sent to those who subscribe to the email list at the bottom of the page.

Directions from City Line Avenue:

Going West (from the river): Follow City Line Ave. (Rt 1) past the foot bridge at St. Joseph's University and make the next left, which is Cardinal Avenue. Go one block and turn right onto Overbrook Avenue. The house is toward the end of the block on the right.

Going East (toward the river): Follow City Line Ave. (Rt 1) past the Executive House Apartments  to the red "St. Joseph's University" sign on your right. This is 59th St. Turn right, go one block, and turn left onto Overbrook Avenue. The house is 4th on the left. The R5 Overbrook train station is about four blocks from the house.

Map to PSALM

PSALM also sponsors and hosts the "Common Ground Interfaith Community Choir", which is open to all who wish to raise their voices in joy and celebration of the spirit. Rehearsals meet most Tuesdays at 7:30 PM. The choir performs publicly and in service to the community on a regular basis. Call Common Ground at 610-526-2020 for specific information.

Building Search

The Society is actively searching for 10,000 to 14,000 square feet of commercial space that is suitable for conversion to central offices for the Society, meeting and performance spaces, art gallery, recording studio, video post-production studio and cafe. Please help us find a home!

Suggestions, gifts, services and donations for this exciting project are most welcome.

Membership

Annual individual ($35) and family ($75) membership fees support the Society and its activities. Corporate sponsorship is $150 for under 10 employees, $250 for under 50 employees and $500 for over 50 employees. Membership brings a laminated membership card, 50% discount and preferred seating at all events, invitations to openings, and a quarterly newsletter and annual report. Corporate sponsorship also brings a 15% discount on newsletter and playbill advertising.

A volunteer program is also underway to allow individuals to contribute their talents to the projects supported by PSALM.

It is easy to join online and lend your support to the creative expression of that which unites humanity and celebrates the beauty of our shared life beyond cultural, economic, racial, or religious boundaries.

Giving

PSALM is engaged in ongoing fundraising for core operations and project funding. We are wholly dependent upon the vision and generosity of individuals, enlightened corporations and granting organizations who believe in the unity of mankind, and the divinely inspired sense of awe and beauty that moves us toward a state of compassionate living unity with each other.

Fully tax-deductible donations in any amount are welcome. All donors receive a personal letter of thanks. Patrons through angels receive a wall plaque expressing our appreciation. We are grateful for the generous and ongoing support of all of our donors.

Donations may be made to PSALM every time you shop online at giveline.com. Click the link to see the wide selection of goods available!

For added convenience, donations under $5000 may be made securely online via major credit card. Transaction processing has been kindly donated by our production partner, VirtuaLux Digital Studio.

Contact

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