The evening begins at 7pm with a special exhibition, open for three hours only, of rare Persian manuscripts from the NLI’s Yahuda collection. The exhibition includes 16 visually stunning works with miniature paintings depicting timeless love stories, such as Yusuf and Zulaikha (Potiphar’s wife), and the exclusive garden parties of the royal court. The manuscripts date from 15th century onwards and span Iran, Turkey and India. Also included in the exhibition are three Judeo-Persian commentaries on classical Persian poetry collections. The exhibition provides a window into one of the richest literary cultures of the world and its influence on surrounding regions.

 

The program, from 8pm-10pm, begins with a brief musical opening of Persian classical music, followed by lectures by renowned academics on the literary and artistic traditions related to Persian mystical poetry. After another musical interlude of Persian classical music, two Sufis (one Jewish and one Muslim) will discuss Jalal al-Din Rumi’s approach to mystical and human love.  For the final part of the program, the musical ensemble will play Turkish music and recite Rumi's poetry in Persian.